Quantum Algorithms Research Scientist

IBM; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 205,000; Full time

Job summary

IBM Research in Cambridge, MA, seeks a Quantum Research Scientist to push the boundaries of quantum algorithms and theory. You will collaborate with leading scientists to design novel algorithms, analyze speed-ups, and contribute to scalable quantum computing initiatives.

A PhD in a related field and a strong publication record are expected, along with proficiency in a general-purpose programming language. This onsite role offers opportunities across IBM’s quantum, AI, and cloud initiatives.

Qualifications

• PhD (completed or near completion) in Physics, CS, Mathematics, Engineering or related field.
• Demonstrated research in design and analysis of quantum algorithms.
• Independent theoretical research with original contributions to the field.
• Solid foundation in quantum information theory, computational complexity, and linear algebra.
• Proficiency in at least one general-purpose programming language.

Responsibilities

• Design novel and efficient quantum algorithms for scientifically and practically meaningful problems, with a focus on implementations suited to fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Rigorously characterize quantum speed-ups using tools from computational complexity theory and through careful comparison with state-of-the-art classical methods.
• Collaborate with our compiler, error-correction, and hardware research teams to refine and optimize algorithms for early fault-tolerant quantum architectures.
• Disseminate your findings through publications in leading peer-reviewed journals and presentations at premier scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the broader research community by engaging with academic collaborators and helping to shape the intellectual direction of quantum algorithms research.

Skills

Quantum algorithms

Independent theoretical research

Publications

Programming

Education

Doctorate Degree

Job description

IBM Research in Cambridge, MA, seeks a Quantum Research Scientist to push the boundaries of quantum algorithms and theory. You will collaborate with leading scientists to design novel algorithms, analyze speed-ups, and contribute to scalable quantum computing initiatives.

A PhD in a related field and a strong publication record are expected, along with proficiency in a general-purpose programming language. This onsite role offers opportunities across IBM’s quantum, AI, and cloud initiatives.