Quantum Qubit Materials Engineer - Thin-Film Stacks

WD; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

WD is seeking a research-focused candidate to advance quantum compute materials. The role centers on developing Al, Nb, Ta thin-film stacks for superconducting qubits, controlling surfaces, interfaces, grain size, and crystallinity to improve resonator and qubit performance across wafers.

You will collaborate with nanofabrication scientists, device designers, and the electrical characterization team to drive high-throughput research and publish findings with impact in quantum information science.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering or Materials Science focusing on superconducting qubits.
• Strong understanding of superconducting qubit design theory.
• Experience in nanofabrication methods for superconducting qubits is a plus.
• Experience in thin film materials characterization including XRD, AFM, CIPT, TEM, XPS.
• Proficiency in Python, Rust, TCL or C; familiarity with FPGA-based microcontrollers.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects in quantum computing thin film materials stack design and surface and interfaces control.
• Lead effort in thin film materials stack characterization.
• Collaborate with product teams to tackle novel challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Stay current with industry and academic trends, publishing papers and presenting at conferences.
• Develop and present detailed reports and visualizations to communicate findings to stakeholders.

Skills

Python

Rust

TCL

C

Nanofabrication methods

Education

PhD in Physics

Tools

XRD

AFM

TEM

XPS

Job description

WD is seeking a research-focused candidate to advance quantum compute materials. The role centers on developing Al, Nb, Ta thin-film stacks for superconducting qubits, controlling surfaces, interfaces, grain size, and crystallinity to improve resonator and qubit performance across wafers.

You will collaborate with nanofabrication scientists, device designers, and the electrical characterization team to drive high-throughput research and publish findings with impact in quantum information science.