Applied Scientist, Materials Characterization and Simulations, Amazon Center for Quantum Computing

Amazon; Reading (MA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Amazon is seeking an Applied Scientist in the Materials team at the Amazon Center for Quantum Computing in Pasadena, CA. The role involves investigating materials-driven loss mechanisms in superconducting quantum processors. Candidates should possess a PhD in relevant fields and deep expertise in materials characterization.

The scientist will work with a multi-disciplinary team to improve qubit performance through innovative materials design, supporting fabrication and translating insights into process improvements.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field required.
• Expertise in materials characterization and computational modeling.
• Experience with superconducting quantum devices preferred.

Responsibilities

• Investigate material defects affecting qubit performance.
• Implement characterization workflows for thin films.
• Provide input on materials design with targeted properties.
• Support characterization for the Fabrication team.
• Coordinate with teams to translate insights into process improvements.

Skills

Materials characterization techniques

Computational modeling of disordered systems

Cross-team collaboration

Scientific programming environment

Education

PhD in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, material science, or physics

Job description

Applied Scientist, Materials Characterization and Simulations, Amazon Center for Quantum Computing

The Amazon Center for Quantum Computing in Pasadena, CA, is looking to hire an Applied Scientist on the Materials team, focused on understanding and mitigating materials-driven loss mechanisms in superconducting quantum processors. You will join a multi-disciplinary team of theoretical and experimental physicists, materials scientists, and hardware and software engineers working at the forefront of quantum computing. You should have deep expertise in materials characterization and computational modeling of disordered solids, with the ability to connect atomic-scale insights to materials design.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Combine materials characterization and numerical simulations to investigate how material defects affect qubit performance.
• Implement multi-technique characterization workflows for thin films and interfaces.
• Provide input on the design of materials with targeted properties and develop computational tools for simulations of disordered structures.
• Provide characterization support for the Fabrication team, investigating materials sources of loss in production‑relevant films and processes.
• Coordinate with cross‑functional teams to translate materials insights into actionable process improvements, and publish results in scientific journals when appropriate.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, material science, physics or equivalent
• Expertise in materials characterization techniques
• Experience with computational modeling of materials or disordered systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience successfully delivering on projects as part of a cross‑team collaboration
• Proficient in a scientific programming environment
• Expertise in superconductivity theory and sources of dissipation in superconducting quantum devices
• Familiarity with thin‑film deposition, surface preparation, or semiconductor fabrication processes
• Track record of translating materials research into actionable process or design recommendations

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.