Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Atom Computing; Boulder, Berkeley (CO, CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 185,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Unlimited PTO

401K company matching

Equity in the company

Job summary

Atom Computing is seeking a Quantum Theorist to model neutral-atom quantum computers, improve calibration, and characterize machine performance in collaboration with experimentalists. The role reports to the Quantum Theory Manager within the Applications & Theory department, with Berkeley, CA or Boulder, CO offices.

The candidate will work with AMO theorists to design future systems, publish results, and contribute to software used in simulations.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field required.
• Strong publication record in the field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent/collaborative theoretical and computational projects to advance neutral atom quantum computers.
• Develop atomic physics simulations and translate them into maintainable software.
• Collaborate with Experimentalists, Quantum Engineers, and AMO Theorists to model results and contribute to device design.
• Write clean, well-tested, and documented code in Python, Julia, or C++.

Skills

Atomic physics

Quantum optics

Qubit control

Software development

Communication skills

Rydberg atoms

QuTiP

QuantumOptics.jl

Education

PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or related field

Tools

Version control (Git)

Unit testing

Continuous integration

Documentation

Python

Julia

C++

Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a talented team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state‑of‑the‑art in quantum computing.

Atom Computing is seeking a Quantum Theorist to contribute to a variety of projects that help with the development of neutral atom quantum computing. In this role, you'll be working directly with other theorists and experimentalists to model our quantum computers, improve calibration routines, characterize machine performance, and propose methods for their overall advancement. You'll work within an expert team of atomic physics and quantum error correction theorists that shapes future system design and supports experimental progress.

This role reports to the Quantum Theory Manager within Atom Computing’s Applications & Theory department. Applications will be considered for our Berkeley, CA or Boulder, CO office.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and/or collaborative theoretical and computational projects that drive the understanding and development of neutral atom quantum computers.
• Contribute to the development and operation of a variety of atomic physics simulations and translate them into high-quality, maintainable software solutions.
• Collaborate with Experimentalists, Quantum Engineers, Error Correction Theorists, and AMO Theorists to model experimental results, develop noise models for quantum hardware, and contribute to the design of neutral-atom quantum computers.
• Write clean, well‑tested, and documented code in multiple languages (preferably Python, Julia, or C++).

Experience & Education

• PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or a related field.

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of atomic, molecular and optical physics. Experience working with or modeling of Rydberg atoms is particularly appreciated.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with published results within their field of research.
• Technical expertise spanning atomic structure, quantum optics, and qubit control, e.g. using QutiP, QuantumOptics.jl, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with modern software development practices: version control, unit testing, continuous integration, and documentation.
• Temperamentally suited to work at a fast‑growing startup: self‑motivated, humble, driven, collaborative, with a high tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty.

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short‑ and long‑term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $160,000 - $185,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.