Research Quantum algorithm theorist Professional Cambridge, US

IBM; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

401(k)

IBM Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Life insurance

Disability coverage

Performance-based incentives

Generous paid time off

AI-driven learning platform

Diversity & inclusion groups

Job summary

IBM is seeking a Quantum Algorithm Theorist in Cambridge, MA, to design original quantum algorithms and rigorously analyze their performance on fault-tolerant architectures.

You will collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams and publish your results in top journals and conferences, helping steer the direction of quantum algorithms research at IBM.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, CS, Mathematics, Engineering, or closely related field.
• Demonstrated research experience in design and analysis of quantum algorithms.
• Track record of independent theoretical research with original contributions.
• Solid foundation in quantum information theory, computational complexity, and linear algebra.
• Proficiency in at least one general-purpose programming language.

Responsibilities

• Design novel quantum algorithms for scientifically and practically meaningful problems on fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Rigorously characterize quantum speed-ups using computational complexity theory and compare with classical methods.
• Collaborate with compiler, error‑correction, and hardware teams to refine and optimize algorithms for early fault‑tolerant quantum architectures.
• Disseminate findings through publications in leading peer‑reviewed journals and presentations at premier scientific conferences.
• Engage with academic collaborators and help shape the intellectual direction of quantum algorithms research.

Skills

Quantum information theory

Computational complexity

Linear algebra

General-purpose programming

Independent research experience

Education

Doctorate degree

Job description

Quantum Algorithm Theorist

Responsibilities

• Design novel and efficient quantum algorithms for scientifically and practically meaningful problems, focusing on implementations suited to fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Rigorously characterize quantum speed-ups using computational complexity theory and compare with state-of-the-art classical methods.
• Collaborate with compiler, error‑correction, and hardware research teams to refine and optimize algorithms for early fault‑tolerant quantum architectures.
• Disseminate findings through publications in leading peer‑reviewed journals and presentations at premier scientific conferences.
• Engage with academic collaborators and help shape the intellectual direction of quantum algorithms research.

Required Education

Doctorate Degree

Preferred Education

Doctorate Degree

Required Technical and Professional Expertise

• A Ph.D. (completed or near completion) in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated research experience in the design and analysis of quantum algorithms.
• Track record of independent theoretical research, evidenced by 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.

Preferred Technical and Professional Experience

• Strong publication record in high‑impact, peer‑reviewed journals and top‑tier conference proceedings.
• Experience serving on technical program committees or as a reviewer for reputable conferences and journals in quantum computing or theoretical computer science.
• Postdoctoral research experience or completion of a graduate program with substantial focus on quantum algorithms, quantum complexity theory, or related areas.

Benefits

• Healthcare benefits including medical & prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and mental health & well‑being.
• Financial programs such as 401(k), cash balance pension plan, IBM Employee Stock Purchase Plan, financial counseling, life insurance, short & long‑term disability coverage, and opportunities for performance based salary incentive programs.
• Generous paid time off including 12 holidays, minimum 56 hours sick time, 120 hours vacation, 12 weeks parental bonding leave, and other Paid Care Leave programs.
• Training and educational resources on a personalized, AI‑driven learning platform for skill growth and certifications.
• Diverse and inclusive employee resource groups, giving & volunteer opportunities, and discounts on retail products, services & experiences.

IBM is proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, or other characteristics protected by the applicable law. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.