Research Software Engineer - Quantum Software

Quantinuum; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Quantinuum is looking for a Research Software Engineer to enhance its Quantum Software team in Cambridge. The role involves developing the Guppy quantum programming language and optimizing the TKET compiler, offering a unique opportunity at the frontier of quantum computing. You will work with a talented group and enjoy a competitive salary and benefits including equity and generous holidays.

Benefits

28 days of paid holiday

Equity options

Positive approach to flexible working

Enhanced parental and adoption benefits

Qualifications

• Experience in Python or Rust development.
• Familiarity with compiler frameworks such as LLVM or MLIR.
• Ability to communicate technical ideas clearly.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and contribute to a Python-based compiler codebase.
• Design and implement novel features for quantum programming languages.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across research and engineering teams.

Skills

Python

Rust

Quantum Computing

Compiler Concepts

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering

Tools

LLVM

MLIR

Debugging Tools

Job description

Research Software Engineer - Quantum Software

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Research Software Engineer - Quantum Software

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Quantinuum are seeking a Research Software Engineer to join our growing Quantum Software team in Cambridge, UK. In this role, you will help shape the design and implementation of the Guppy quantum programming language and contribute to the next generation of the TKET quantum compiler. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of software development, compiler design, and quantum computing research.

You will collaborate closely with a small, dynamic team throughout the full development lifecycle — from research and design to programming and testing — with the freedom to think independently and make a real impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and contribute to a Python-based compiler codebase.
• Design and implement novel features for quantum programming languages.
• Develop and apply optimization methods for quantum programs.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders across research and engineering teams.

Key Requirements

• Software development experience, preferably in Python or Rust.
• Broad knowledge of programming languages, paradigms, and compiler concepts.
• Ability to work collaboratively, communicate technical ideas clearly, and write clean, maintainable code.
• Familiarity with collaboration tools (e.g., version control, issue tracking) and development tools (e.g., debugger, profiler, testing frameworks).
• A 2:1 or higher degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Ability to read and implement ideas from technical research materials.
• Knowledge of quantum computing, quantum algorithms, or programming quantum systems is advantageous.
• Familiarity with formal methods, type theory, or program verification tools.
• Background in large software system architecture and design.
• Experience with compiler frameworks such as LLVM or MLIR.

What is in it for you?

Working alongside a highly talented team, with leading names in the quantum computing industry. We offer a highly competitive package, equity, 28 days of paid holiday (in addition to public holidays), a workplace pension, a positive approach to flexible working and enhanced parental and adoption benefits.

About Us:

Science Led, Enterprise Driven – Accelerating Quantum Computing

Quantinuum is the world’s largest integrated quantum company, pioneering powerful quantum computers and advanced software solutions. Quantinuum’s technology drives breakthroughs in materials discovery, cybersecurity, and next-gen quantum AI. With approximately 500 employees, including 370+ scientists and engineers, Quantinuum leads the quantum computing revolution across continents.

Quantinuum recently secured $300m in funding, visit our news pages to learn more about this and other Quantinuum scientific breakthroughs and achievements: https://www.quantinuum.com/news

Please note that employment with us is subject to successfully passing our pre-employment screening checks. We are an inclusive equal opportunity employer. You will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Associate

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Information Technology, Science, and Research

• Industries

  Computer Hardware Manufacturing, Software Development, and IT System Custom Software Development

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