Quantum System Performance Scientist - Demonstrations 2027

IBM; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

IBM Research Cambridge seeks a graduate student or early-career researcher to advance quantum computing by studying system performance on processors and collaborating with leading scientists and engineers. The role focuses on identifying promising directions, designing experiments, and developing demonstrations that push the capabilities of quantum hardware.

Independent research, rigorous data analysis with Python and Qiskit, and documenting workflows for reproducibility are essential.

Qualifications

• Enrollment in a Ph.D. or research-focused Master's program in Physics, CS, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related field.
• Coursework or research in quantum computing, quantum information science, quantum mechanics, linear algebra, or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research through projects, theses, internships, or publications.
• Experience with scientific computing and at least one general-purpose programming language (e.g., Python) for data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Explore quantum system performance questions with mentor guidance and broader team.
• Design and execute experiments on quantum processors to characterize performance and accuracy.
• Develop quantitative methods for assessment, including benchmarking and error analysis.
• Investigate error mitigation, dynamic circuits, and related techniques to extend quantum computations.
• Collaborate across theory, software, and hardware to link advances to demonstrations.
• Document findings and develop workflows so colleagues can apply techniques.

Skills

Python

Quantum computing

Research experience

Qiskit

NumPy

SciPy

Matplotlib

Education

Master's degree

PhD candidate

Tools

Qiskit

Job description

IBM Research Cambridge seeks a graduate student or early-career researcher to advance quantum computing by studying system performance on processors and collaborating with leading scientists and engineers. The role focuses on identifying promising directions, designing experiments, and developing demonstrations that push the capabilities of quantum hardware.

Independent research, rigorous data analysis with Python and Qiskit, and documenting workflows for reproducibility are essential.