Staff Scientist - Quantum Applications

The role

You will develop hybrid quantum applications to solve complex problems for defense sector customers. You will lead the integration of quantum algorithms into workflows and benchmark performance against state-of-the-art methods.

What you will do

• Develop impactful hybrid quantum applications for defense-related missions
• Partner with clients to identify and solve problems using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers
• Lead integration of quantum algorithms into realistic workflows
• Translate problem statements into quantum code
• Evolve algorithmic approach with the IonQ hardware roadmap
• Benchmark quantum algorithm performance against SOTA methods
• Develop portfolio of foundational IP and peer-reviewed publications
• Represent IonQ externally with customers and at conferences

Required qualifications

• Doctorate degree in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics or similar STEM field
• 4+ years of professional work experience developing quantum applications for defense-related use cases
• Strong track record of peer-reviewed publications
• Experience leading Federal, DefenseTech and Industrial R&D engagements
• Experience tuning quantum algorithms and benchmarking across different quantum modalities and classical SOTA
• Expertise in resource estimation and calculating cross-over points
• Mastery of Python and Qiskit or similar quantum SDK
• Working knowledge of C++ or other low-level language
• Evidence of putting customers and mission first
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills
• Must reside in New Mexico

Nice to have

• Contributions to open-source or production-grade codebases
• Experience working in the quantum solutions industry
• Experience developing software using agentic-AI
• Experience developing well-tuned hybrid quantum algorithms that leverage the strengths of CPU, QPU and QPU

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
• Matching 401(k)
• Unlimited PTO
• Paid holidays
• Parental/adoption leave
• Legal insurance
• Home technology stipend

Before you apply

• US persons only
• Classical and quantum coding evaluations will be a part of the interview process
• Employment is contingent on verifying U.S. Person status for export controls and government contracts

About the company

IonQ, Inc. is a quantum platform and merchant supplier delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, the company provides quantum computing services through major cloud providers.