Quantum Computing Operations Scientist

ZuriQ; Zürich; On-site; CHF 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Equity participation

30 days annual leave

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

ZuriQ is building the next generation of quantum computers using Penning‑trap technology. You will operate and develop prototype systems, design experimental sequences, and translate results into improvements.

You will work with a multidisciplinary team to advance a scalable quantum computing platform while shaping the technical direction of the experiments. Join a startup with significant influence on platform evolution, opportunity for ownership, and flexible working arrangements in Zurich.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent practical experience in experimental physics or quantum optics.
• Hands‑on experience with experimental quantum systems, preferably trapped‑ion.
• Proficiency in Python for automation, data analysis, and visualization.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills; ability to document work and present results.

Responsibilities

• Operate, maintain, and optimize Penning‑trap quantum computing experiments on a day‑to‑day basis.
• Characterize qubit properties and quantum operations to improve performance.
• Diagnose issues across optical, electronic, and control systems and implement solutions.
• Develop automated measurement and calibration routines using Python and other tools.
• Collaborate with hardware and software teams to integrate subsystems and advance platform capabilities.
• Design and execute experiments to validate new concepts and milestones.
• Establish procedures and metrics to improve reproducibility and reliability.

Skills

Python for control

Experimental physics know‑how

Scientific writing

Independent work

Cross‑functional collaboration

Education

PhD in experimental physics/quantum optics/atomic physics

Tools

FPGA-based control

Laser systems knowledge

Vacuum systems/cryogenics

Job description

About ZuriQ

ZuriQ's goal is to develop the next generation of quantum computers. Using quantum physics, these machines will make it possible to solve computational problems beyond the reach of today’s computers. Our technology is based on a new method for trapping atomic ions in Penning micro-traps, developed at ETH Zürich. Each ion is held only by static electric and magnetic fields, so our systems can natively operate two-dimensional arrays of ions as qubits.This gives us a direct path to scaling the quantum computer to a size where it finds useful applications.

Founded two years ago as an ETH Zürich spin-off, ZuriQ is on its way to becoming a world-leading provider of quantum computers. Our small team of highly motivated people has years of experience building quantum computers and is driven by a singular vision: to build the world’s first fully scaled quantum computer.

Impact

You will play a key role in advancing ZuriQ's novel Penning‑trap quantum computing platform from experimental demonstrations towards a scalable quantum computing platform. Working closely with our engineering and software teams, you will operate and develop our prototype systems, demonstrating new capabilities and improving their performance and reliability.

From trapping and controlling individual ions to demonstrating high‑fidelity quantum operations, your work will directly shape the development of our technology. You will have the opportunity to take ownership of prototype systems, tackle challenging problems at the intersection of quantum physics and engineering, and help translate cutting‑edge research into a functioning quantum computer.

The role

You will work hands‑on with our trapped‑ion quantum computing systems, taking responsibility for their day‑to‑day operation while contributing to the development of new system capabilities. You will design and execute experimental sequences, characterize system performance, troubleshoot complex experimental challenges, and develop techniques to improve qubit control and quantum operations.

Working alongside a multidisciplinary team of experimental physicists, engineers, software developers and quantum algorithms specialists, you will help integrate individual components into a fully functioning quantum computer. This includes developing standardized procedures for system operation, automating execution of calibrations and algorithmic sequences, analyzing data, and translating experimental results into actionable improvements to the system.

As part of a growing startup, you will have significant influence over both the technical direction of the experiments and the evolution of our quantum computing platform.

What you’ll do

• Operate, maintain, and optimize Penning‑trap quantum computing experiments, ensuring reliable day‑to‑day system performance.
• Characterize qubit properties, quantum operations, ion array rearrangement, and other relevant system parameters to understand and improve performance.
• Diagnose experimental issues, identify performance limitations, and implement solutions across the optical, electronic, and control systems.
• Develop automated measurement and calibration routines, using Python and other tools to streamline experimental workflows and data analysis.
• Work closely with hardware and software engineers to integrate new subsystems and develop new quantum computing capabilities.
• Design and execute experiments to validate new concepts, demonstrate technical milestones, and guide the development of the platform.
• Establish experimental procedures, documentation, and performance metrics to improve reproducibility, maintainability and reliability.
• Contribute to the commissioning of next‑generation prototypes as the company expands its quantum computing capabilities.Use your hands‑on experience operating our prototype systems to shape the design of the next generation.

Your profile

• A PhD in experimental physics, quantum optics, atomic physics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Hands‑on experience with experimental quantum systems, preferably trapped‑ion quantum computing or another platform involving control of quantum systems.
• A concrete understanding of quantum mechanics, coherent control, and experimental techniques for manipulating and measuring quantum states.
• Experience in designing, executing, and analysing physics experiments, with the ability to troubleshoot complex problems systematically.
• Proficiency in Python for experimental control, automation, data analysis, and visualization.
• A practical, hands‑on approach to experimental physics, with a willingness to work across different parts of a complex prototype setup.
• The ability to work independently, take ownership of technical challenges, and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• A proactive, solution‑oriented mindset and enthusiasm for building a new quantum computing architecture from the ground up.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills, with experience documenting experimental work, writing scientific publications, and presenting results at conferences.
• Strong communication skills in English.

Nice to have

• Experience with ion trap systems, Penning traps, or precision control of atomic or molecular systems.
• Experience with quantum gates, quantum process characterization, and benchmarking of quantum operations.
• Familiarity with laser systems, optical setups, frequency stabilization, and phase‑noise characterization.
• Experience with ultra‑high‑vacuum systems, cryogenic environments, superconducting magnets.
• Experience with FPGA‑based control systems, RF and microwave electronics, timing systems, or real‑time experimental control.
• Familiarity with experimental automation frameworks, hardware integration, and laboratory control software.
• Experience improving experimental stability, automating calibration procedures, and developing reliable measurement workflows.

What we offer

• The opportunity to help build a new quantum computing architecture from the ground up.
• A hands‑on experimental role with direct influence on the performance and development of our quantum computer.
• The opportunity to work at the forefront of trapped‑ion quantum computing, combining fundamental physics with practical engineering.
• Long‑term career prospects and diverse opportunities for professional development in a rapidly evolving field.
• Competitive compensation and equity participation through a stock option plan.
• A dynamic, motivated, international team with a flat hierarchy, built around four core principles: excellence, reliability, trust, and open feedback.
• Flexible working arrangements and hours.
• 30 days of annual leave.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team.