Staff Scientist – Fault-Tolerant Quantum Algorithms

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution. 

We are looking for a Staff Scientist – Fault-Tolerant Quantum Algorithms to lead the technical development in utilizing IonQ’s quantum computers to create highly differentiated quantum solutions that will bring value to society. As a Staff Scientist – Fault-Tolerant Quantum Algorithms, you’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on a multi-generational journey to solve the world’s most complex problems using the world’s best quantum computers built at IonQ. 

As a technical leader on fault-tolerant algorithms, you will help discover the next generation of quantum applications that are poised to deliver results exceeding state-of-the-art classical methods. You will play a key role in developing core IP, computational resource models, long-term roadmaps and end-to-end workflows that have the potential to disrupt the field of computing. You will also work closely with product, engineering, marketing, sales, operations, and external customers/partners to brainstorm new ideas, propose complex, multi-year initiatives and represent IonQ at high-visibility technical conferences (often all in a single day)!

Responsibilities: 

• Lead-by-doing hands-on development of fault-tolerant quantum algorithms that will make a large scientific and commercial impact across a wide range of industry verticals
• Drive constructive technical interactions across multi-disciplinary teams to identify, define and solve challenging real-world problems using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers.
• Be a go-to expert to do SWOT analyses of various FTQC algorithms vs NISQ algorithms vs classical HPC algorithms. Communicate to stakeholders the current state-of-the-art, scaling behaviors, trade offs, cross-over points, etc. Drive adoption of benchmarking metrics and tools.
• Develop portfolio of foundational IP and high-impact-factor peer-reviewed publications; represent IonQ externally with customer/clients and at conferences

You’d be a good fit with:

• 8+ years of professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• World-class expertise in FTQC algorithms that can scale to millions of qubits, billions of gates with line-of-sight to end-customer value; active portfolio of invited talks, repos, licenses, publications and/or patents
• Active participant in the FTQC algorithm community including the development of tools (libraries, simulators, compiler), metrics (costing, resource estimation, ROI) and community (economic development, standards)
• Relentless dedication to optimizing algorithmic performance (accuracy, time-to-solution) through elegant theoretical equations, as well as engineering optimization
• Doctorate degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or another STEM domain, or equivalent work experience plus 3+ years of professional work experience in the quantum computing field solving the toughest challenges for society
• Mastery of key mathematical techniques used in quantum computing and ability to communicate from community to business to PhD level

You’d be a great fit with: 

• 5+ years of professional work experience developing end-to-end solutions for realistic industry problems such as computer-aided engineering, cybersecurity, chemistry
• Demonstrated expertise in Python and Qiskit or similar quantum SDK; working knowledge of C++.
• Experience proposing, winning, and executing on consultative (paid) contracts; government contracting or defense contracting experience a plus
• Experience commercializing end-to-end software utilizing hybrid computing e.g. CPU + GPU + QPU, Edge, Cloud, etc. Knowledge of CI/CD a plus.

Location: This position can work onsite or hybrid from one of our offices (College Park, MD, Bothell, WA) or fully remote in the US.
Travel: 10% domestic and international
Job ID:  1058

The approximate base salary range for this position is $141,670 - $185,482. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity.

Compensation will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Beyond base salary, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component and a range of benefit options found on our career site at ionq.co/jobs.  Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment. Our US benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance! 

IonQ's HQ is located in College Park, Maryland, a quick 15-minute metro from Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in Bothell, WA (near Seattle). Depending on the position, you may be required to be near one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, or Toronto. However, IonQ will expand into additional domestic and international geographies, so don’t let this stop you from applying!
 
At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.
 
We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices and viewpoints and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

The position you are applying for may require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions.  Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying U.S.-person status for export controls and government contracts work and/or obtaining any necessary license/confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls.  Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law. 

If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!