Senior Research Scientist, Silicon Spin Qubits

Entangled Future; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Q-CTRL is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to advance calibration and optimization for silicon spin qubits in Los Angeles. You will work with quantum scientists to build robust routines for coarse tuning and high-fidelity gates, delivering scalable software tools for quantum processors.

You will collaborate across research, product, and engineering to apply discoveries to production-grade software, driving innovations at the frontier of quantum computing.

Qualifications

• PhD preferred, exceptional industry experience considered.
• 3+ years of research in quantum-related field.
• Experience in tune-up and characterization of quantum dots.
• Expertise in numerical techniques, statistics, and optimization.
• Proficiency in software modules for qubit measurement and control (Python, C++, Rust).

Responsibilities

• Perform cryogenic measurements and characterization of quantum dot-based qubits.
• Invent, implement, and test control protocols for bring-up steps and two-qubit gates.
• Develop scalable processor-wide optimization and real-time retuning protocols.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to translate research into software.
• Explain and document research solutions in accessible language.
• Engage with researchers at partner organizations to discuss calibration routines.
• Drive product development and translation of research into practical solutions.

Skills

Numerical techniques

Statistical learning

Optimization algorithms

Software development best practices

Education

PhD preferred (Physics or Engineering)

Tools

Python

C++

Rust

Job description

Senior Research Scientist, Silicon Spin Qubits at Q-CTRL, Los Angeles. A senior-level full time position in the Computing Research team, listed under research.

About the team

The Quantum Computing Research team is dedicated to developing innovative methods to get the best possible performance from contemporary and next generation quantum computers. We push toward quantum advantage by developing cutting-edge applications, employing AI, control theory, and physics principles to optimize and automate critical parts of the quantum computing stack. We conduct pioneering research looking toward the near future, including quantum error correction and the integration of quantum computers with high performance computing and data centers.

About the role

In this role, you will work in a team of quantum scientists to develop software solutions for calibration and optimization of quantum dot devices. You will focus on building robust routines for coarse tuning, calibrating high-fidelity single- and two-qubit gates, optimizing the full processor at scale, and maintaining peak performance in real time. You will collaborate regularly with other cross-functional teams, such as research, product, and engineering, to apply your insights to a variety of quantum computing challenges and turn your ideas into usable software tools. This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of quantum computing, driving innovation and delivering impactful solutions.

Salary

The base salary for this position is targeted between $150K - $225K and will ultimately be determined by specific job-related skills, experience, level, location and other contributing factors.

Responsibilities

• Perform cryogenic measurements and characterization of quantum dot-based qubits.
• Invent, implement, and test novel control protocols for all the required bring-up steps, starting from coarse tuning to optimizing two-qubit gates.
• Develop scalable protocols for processor-wide optimization (e.g., cross-talk mitigation, leakage reduction, and defect mitigation) and real-time retuning.
• Collaborate with your colleagues in the engineering and product teams to translate ideas and research outcomes into production-level software.
• Explain, document, and present research solutions in accessible language.
• Engage with researchers at partnering companies and organizations to discuss current and future Q-CTRL calibration routines.
• Drive product development & delivery, translating research innovations into practical solutions.

Nice to Have

• An advanced degree in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related discipline. A PhD is preferred, but we also consider exceptional candidates with previous industry experience.
• 3+ years of experience conducting research in a relevant field.
• Previous experience in tune-up and characterization of quantum dots.
• Expertise in numerical techniques, statistical learning, and optimization algorithms.
• A good grasp of software development best practices and experience in developing software modules for qubit measurement and control (Python, C++, Rust). Familiarity with modern AI tools for software is a plus.