Research Software Engineer - Quantum Software

Quantinuum; City Of London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading quantum computing company is seeking a Research Software Engineer in Cambridge, UK. You will contribute to high performance quantum compiler development and engage in the full lifecycle, from research to testing. Candidates should have software development experience in Python or Rust and knowledge of quantum algorithms. The company offers competitive packages, equity, and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

28 days of paid holiday

Workplace pension

Flexible working

Enhanced parental and adoption benefits

Qualifications

• Experience in software development, preferably in Python or Rust.
• Knowledge of quantum computing, quantum algorithms, or programming quantum systems.
• Familiar with collaboration tools like version control.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and contribute to a Rust-based codebase.
• Develop and apply optimization methods for quantum programs.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders across research and engineering teams.

Job description

Quantinuum are seeking a Research Software Engineer to join our growing Quantum Software team in Cambridge, UK.

In this role, you will contribute to the next generation high performance 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.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and contribute to a Rust-based codebase. 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. Knowledge of quantum computing, quantum algorithms, or programming quantum systems.
• Broad knowledge of 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.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with Machine Learning techniques.
• Experience with High Performance Computing.
• Familiarity with graph transformation systems.

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

Quantinuum is the world’s largest integrated quantum company, driving breakthroughs in materials discovery, cybersecurity, and next-generation quantum AI. With a team of more than 600 employees, including more than 420 scientists and engineers, we are leading the worldwide quantum computing revolution.

By uniting best-in-class software with high-fidelity hardware, our integrated full-stack approach is accelerating the path to practical quantum computing and scaling its impact across multiple industries.

As we celebrate the International Year of Quantum, there has never been a more exciting time to be part of this rapidly evolving field. By joining Quantinuum, you’ll be at the forefront of this transformative revolution, shaping the future of quantum computing, pushing the limits of technology, and making the impossible possible.

Visit our news pages to learn more about Quantinuum and our scientific breakthroughs and achievements: Quantinuum news.

Quantinuum Intro Video: The Future of Quantum Computing.

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.