Staff AMO Physicist, Photonic Interconnect Development

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 an AMO Expert to support our photonic interconnect development. As a key member of our team, you’ll be part of a cross-functional group whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world’s best quantum computers. You will play a critical role in developing the cutting-edge photonic interconnects that will enable our quantum computers to scale to unprecedented levels.

At IonQ, our ability to network quantum processors is fundamental to our long-term success. Developing reliable and high-fidelity photonic interconnects is a cornerstone of this strategy. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physicist or engineer to join our team. As an AMO Expert, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, and characterization of the interfaces between our trapped-ion systems and photonic channels. You will work closely with our architecture, quantum networking, and experimental teams to realize robust and scalable quantum communication.

Responsibilities:

• Design and develop novel interfaces between single trapped ions and single photons for robust photonic interconnects.
• Develop and apply advanced theoretical models of ion-photon interactions and quantum optical phenomena to guide experimental design, interpret measurement data, and propose novel protocols to enhance interconnect fidelity and efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with the experimental team to interpret the results of device characterization, comparing measurement data (e.g., photon collection efficiency, spectral properties, state fidelity) against theoretical models to identify performance limitations and propose mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with the various architecture teams to provide design specifications and performance targets for integrated photonic components based on theoretical insights.
• Analyze sources of noise and decoherence in experimental data, developing models that lead to more robust and fault-tolerant designs.
• Document research and development progress, and present findings to internal teams and the broader scientific community.

You’d be a good fit with: 

• A PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field with a strong focus on Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics.
• 8+ years of professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• A solid understanding of quantum optics and light-matter interactions.
• Proficiency in numerical physics simulations.

You’d be a great fit with: 

• 5+ years of experience in an academic or industrial research setting focused on quantum information or quantum optics.
• Hands-on experience with trapped ions or neutral atoms.
• Demonstrated expertise in the design and operation of high-finesse optical cavities or free-space optics for single-photon collection.
• Proficiency with laser systems, optical instrumentation, and vacuum technology.
• Familiarity with integrated photonics and fiber-optic components.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as Python for experiment control and data analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a knack for troubleshooting complex experimental systems.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, interdisciplinary team.

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: approximately a week once a quarter
Job ID:  1111

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, just outside of 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, Toronto, Canada, and Basel, Switzerland. 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.

US Technical Jobs. The position you are applying for will 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” (e.g., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum) status for export controls and government contracts work, obtaining any necessary license, and/or confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls.  Please note that in the absence of confirming you are a U.S. Person for export control and government contracts work purposes, IonQ may choose not to apply for a license or decline to use a license exception (if available) for you to access export-controlled technology that may require authorization, and similarly, you may not qualify for government contracts work that requires U.S. Persons, and IonQ may decline to proceed with your application on those bases alone.  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.  

US Non-Technical Jobs. Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. 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!