Research Software Engineer - Quantum Software

Quantinuum; City Of London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading quantum technology company in the UK is seeking a Research Software Engineer to enhance the Guppy quantum programming language and contribute to the TKET compiler. The role involves maintaining a Python compiler codebase, designing novel features, and optimizing quantum programs. Ideal candidates should have programming experience, a relevant degree, and familiarity with quantum computing concepts. The position offers a competitive salary, equity, flexible working, and generous holiday benefits.

Benefits

28 days paid holiday

Workplace pension

Equity

Flexible working

Qualifications

• Experience in software development, preferably in Python or Rust.
• Broad understanding of compiler design and concepts.
• Ability to read and implement ideas from technical research.
• Knowledge of quantum computing or programming quantum systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Python or Rust experience

Knowledge of programming languages

Collaborative communication

Familiarity with collaboration tools

Ability to implement research ideas

Education

Degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering

Tools

LLVM or MLIR

Job description

Overview

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.

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.

Qualifications

• 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.

Desirable Skills

• Experience designing programming languages or domain-specific languages.
• 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

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: https://www.quantinuum.com/news

Quantinuum Intro Video: The Future of Quantum Computing

Equal Opportunity

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.