Quantum Research Scientist, Materials Team, AWS Center for Quantum Computing

Amazon; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking team at the forefront of quantum computing technology as a Quantum Research Scientist. You will leverage your expertise in materials science to innovate and optimize superconducting quantum devices. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead research projects, design experiments, and collaborate with a diverse group of scientists and engineers. The culture emphasizes work/life integration, mentorship, and career growth, making it an ideal environment for those passionate about advancing quantum technologies. If you're ready to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving field, this position is for you.

Qualifications

• PhD in materials science, physics, or related field required.
• Expertise in thin film and characterization techniques is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop deposition processes for superconducting quantum devices.
• Characterize structural and chemical properties of thin films.
• Communicate findings to team and publish in scientific journals.

Skills

Thin film techniques

Superconducting materials

Scientific programming (Python, Julia, MATLAB)

Characterization techniques (XRD, XPS, TEM)

Education

PhD in materials science

PhD in physics

PhD in applied physics

Tools

MBE

e-beam/thermal evaporation

magnetron sputtering

ALD

PLD

MOCVD

PECVD

XRD

XPS

TEM

Job description

Quantum Research Scientist, Materials Team, AWS Center for Quantum Computing

Job ID: 2931441 | Amazon Development Center U.S., Inc.

The Amazon Web Services (AWS) Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians on a mission to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer.

You will be joining a team located in Pasadena, CA that develops material innovations to improve the performance of quantum processors. We are looking to hire a Quantum Research Scientist who will apply their expertise in thin film growth and characterization to the optimization of fabricated superconducting quantum devices. In this role, you are expected to lead and assist research projects that are aligned with our Center’s technical roadmap. You will develop new ideas and design experiments aimed at identifying the most promising material systems, deposition conditions, and integration processes for superconducting circuit applications.

Key job responsibilities

1. Develop deposition processes for epitaxial thin film stacks made of superconducting, semiconducting, and dielectric materials for the fabrication of quantum devices.
2. Characterize the structural and chemical properties of the films.
3. Search for correlations between the material properties and performance metrics of quantum devices that are fabricated from these materials.
4. Communicate engineering and scientific findings to teammates, the broader CQC team and, when appropriate, publish findings in scientific journals.

A day in the life
At the AWS CQC, we understand that developing quantum computing technology is a marathon, not a sprint. The work/life integration within our team encourages a culture where employees work hard and also have ownership over their downtime.

We are committed to the growth and development of every employee at the AWS CQC, and that includes our research scientists. You will receive management and mentorship from within the team that is geared toward career growth, and also have the opportunity to participate in Amazon's mentorship programs for scientists and engineers. Working closely with other quantum research scientists in other disciplines – like design, measurement and cryogenic hardware – will provide opportunities to dive deep into an education on quantum computing.

About the team
Our team contributes to the fabrication of processors and other hardware that enable quantum computing technologies. Doing that necessitates the development of materials with tailored properties for superconducting circuits. Research Scientists and Engineers on the Materials team operate deposition and characterization systems in order to develop and optimize thin film processes for use in these devices. They work alongside other Research Scientists and Engineers to help deliver the fabricated devices for quantum computing experiments.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

- PhD in materials science, physics, applied physics, or a related field in science or engineering
- Expertise in two or more of the following thin film techniques: MBE, e-beam/thermal evaporation, magnetron sputtering, ALD, PLD, MOCVD, PECVD.
- Expertise in two or more of the following characterization techniques: XRD, XPS, PPMS, TEM, AFM, SEM, SIMS, FTIR
- Research experience with superconducting materials and/or epitaxial growth
- Proficient in a scientific programming environment (i.e., one or more of Python, Julia, MATLAB, Mathematica)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

- A demonstrated track record of original, impactful work done on the development and characterization of materials
- Familiarity with superconducting quantum computing circuits
- Experience with improving device performance through materials development
- Experience with designing, modifying, and/or maintaining deposition or characterization equipment
- Comfortable working in a diverse group and contributing to an inclusive culture, alongside other engineers, scientists and technicians who have a wide range of technical skill levels
- Thrives in a collaborative environment

Amazon is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.

Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information.