Senior Quantum Scientist

Ionq; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 126,887 - 166,127; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans

Matching 401(k)

Unlimited PTO and paid holidays

Parental/adoption leave

Legal insurance

Home-technology stipend

Job summary

IonQ is seeking a qualified candidate for a quantum computing role based in Boulder, CO, offering a hybrid work model. The successful candidate will have a PhD in physics or a related field and will work on pioneering advancements in quantum technology using trapped-ion methods.

Responsibilities include calibrating quantum systems and analyzing experimental data. A solid background in experimental AMO physics or quantum computing is essential, with strong programming and data analysis skills favored.

The role offers a competitive salary range of $126,887 – $166,127 along with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• You will need a PhD in physics or a related discipline with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit-related physics.
• Strong proficiency in programming and data analysis is required.
• Experience with trapped ions is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prototype and characterize coherent control and cooling schemes for trapped-ion qubits.
• Calibrate and benchmark quantum systems focused on ultra-low gate errors.
• Analyze experimental data and ensure reliability of qubit operations.

Skills

Experimental AMO physics or quantum computing

Programming and data analysis

Collaborative skills

Calibration and benchmarking of qubits

Education

PhD in physics or related discipline

Job description

IonQ, Inc. is the world’s leading quantum platform and merchant supplier, delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. IonQ’s newest generation of quantum computers, the IonQ Tempo, is the latest in a line of cutting‑edge systems helping customers and partners such as Amazon Web Services and AstraZeneca achieve 20× performance and accelerate innovation in drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. In 2025 the company achieved 99.99% two‑qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in quantum computing performance. Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, IonQ operates in several countries and offers its quantum computing services through all major cloud providers.

Location: This role is based out of our Boulder, CO office. We offer a hybrid work model, allowing for remote work a few days per week.

The Role

We are pioneering advancements in quantum computing by utilizing trapped‑ion technology and our proprietary laser‑free quantum control methods. Our research and development efforts build on our fully integrated quantum processors that can be fabricated within standard silicon foundries, enabling the use of high‑performing qubit technology while ensuring scalability and manufacturability. Our immediate objective is to develop functional quantum computers within the NISQ regime and to construct fault‑tolerant machines requiring minimal quantum‑error‑correction overhead. Recent breakthroughs include achieving 99.97% fidelity in two‑qubit gates and 99.9992% fidelity in single‑qubit operations without error correction.

Responsibilities

• Prototype and characterize coherent control and cooling schemes for trapped‑ion qubits using laser and microwave fields.
• Calibrate and benchmark quantum systems, focusing on achieving ultra‑low gate errors and optimizing performance across device modules.
• Validate emerging trap technologies, including integrated electronics and photonics for large‑scale architectures.
• Analyze experimental data, debug complex hardware/software interactions, and ensure reliability of qubit operations.
• Present results internally and externally, representing IonQ at conferences and in collaborations.

Requirements

You will need a PhD in physics or a related discipline with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit‑related physics. Prior postdoctoral or industry experience is valuable, but the role is also open to candidates moving directly from a PhD. A solid background in quantum control, with hands‑on experience in calibration, benchmarking, or coherent control of qubits, will be key to success. Practical skills in control software, hardware integration, or experimental data analysis are also important.

• Proven expertise in experimental AMO physics or quantum computing; experience with trapped ions is preferred.
• Strong collaborative skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a fast‑moving team.
• Prior experience in one or more of the following: spectroscopy or simulation of multi‑level systems, characterization of control hardware, gate‑fidelity benchmarking, or running algorithms on hardware.
• Strong proficiency in programming and data analysis.
• A track record of scientific communication through publications, talks, and conferences.

The approximate base salary range for this position is $126,887 – $166,127. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity, and a range of benefit options. Compensation will vary based on individual factors such as education, qualifications, experience, specific office location, and market data.

Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans; matching 401(k); unlimited PTO and paid holidays; parental/adoption leave; legal insurance; and a home‑technology stipend. Details of participation will be provided with an offer of employment.

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while fostering an environment where employees feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

We are committed to equity and justice, welcoming different voices and viewpoints and not discriminating on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.