Senior Quantum Physicist

Entangled Future; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 135,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

IonQ in Boulder, Colorado, is seeking a Senior Quantum Physicist to advance trapped-ion quantum processors with laser-free control. You will design and run experiments on hardware, develop novel control schemes, and push system performance toward fault-tolerant scales in a remote-capable role.

The role requires a PhD in physics, strong quantum control experience, and hands-on calibration or benchmarking of qubits.

Qualifications

• What is required: PhD in physics or related field with strong quantum physics background.
• Experience with quantum control and qubit calibration is essential.
• Hands-on calibration, benchmarking, or coherent control of qubits is valued.
• Programming and data analysis skills are important.
• Publications or talks demonstrate scientific communication.

Responsibilities

• Prototype and characterize coherent control and cooling schemes for trapped-ion qubits using laser and microwave fields.
• Calibrate and benchmark quantum systems aiming for ultra-low gate errors and high performance.
• Validate emerging trap technologies including integrated electronics and photonics.
• Analyze experimental data and debug complex hardware/software interactions.
• Present results internally and at conferences on behalf of Oxford Ionics.
• Demonstrate expertise in experimental AMO physics; trapped ions preferred.
• Collaborate effectively while contributing independently in a fast-moving team.
• Experience with spectroscopy or simulation of multi-level systems and gate fidelity benchmarking.
• Strong programming and data analysis proficiencies and scientific communication record.

Skills

Quantum control

Calibration

Benchmarking

Coherent control

Data analysis

Programming

Hardware integration

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in physics

Tools

Control software

Instrumentation

Job description

Senior Quantum Physicist at IonQ, Boulder, Colorado, United States (remote). A senior-level full time position in the Compute - Science team, listed under hardware engineering.

The Role

We are pioneering advancements in quantum computing by utilizing trapped ion technology and our proprietary laser-free quantum control methods. Our research and development efforts build on our fully integrated quantum processors that can be fabricated within standard silicon foundries. This unique approach allows us to leverage the highest-performing qubit technology while ensuring scalability and manufacturability using existing semiconductor fabrication technology. We approach quantum computing with a focus on minimizing errors, striving to achieve ultra-low gate errors at scale. Our immediate objective is to develop functional quantum computers within the NISQ regime, aiming to construct fault-tolerant machines that require minimal QEC overhead. Our recent breakthroughs include achieving 99.97% fidelity in two-qubit gates and 99.9992% fidelity in single-qubit operations without error correction, setting new industry standards for performance.

Responsibilities

As a Quantum Physicist, you will be at the forefront of our research efforts, working hands‑on with our current hardware while helping to shape future generations of quantum processors. Your work will span designing, debugging, and executing experiments, developing novel control schemes, and pushing the boundaries of system performance.

Requirements

You will need a PhD in physics or a related discipline, with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit-related physics. While prior postdoctoral or industry experience is valuable, this role is also open to candidates moving directly from a PhD. A solid background in quantum control, with hands‑on experience in calibration, benchmarking, or coherent control of qubits, will be key to success. Practical skills in control software, hardware integration, or experimental data analysis are also important.

The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity, and a range of benefit options found on our career site.

Responsibilities

• Prototype and characterize coherent control and cooling schemes for trapped‑ion qubits using laser and microwave fields.
• Calibrate and benchmark quantum systems, focusing on achieving ultra‑low gate errors and optimizing performance across device modules.
• Validate emerging trap technologies, including integrated electronics and photonics for large‑scale architectures.
• Analyze experimental data, debug complex hardware/software interactions, and ensure reliability of qubit operations.
• Present results internally and externally, representing Oxford Ionics at conferences and in collaborations.
• Proven expertise in experimental AMO physics or quantum computing. Experience with trapped ions is preferred.
• Strong collaborative skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a fast‑moving team
• Prior experience in one or more of the following: spectroscopy or simulation of multi‑level systems, characterization of control hardware, gate fidelity benchmarking or running algorithms on hardware
• Strong proficiency in programming and data analysis.
• A track record of scientific communication through publications, talks and conferences.