Senior Research Scientist, Silicon Spin Qubits

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

Benefits offered by this job

Equity potential

Flexible work

Competitive benefits

Job summary

Q-CTRL is seeking a quantum computing researcher to develop software for calibration and optimization of quantum dot devices. You will build robust control routines from coarse tuning to two-qubit gate optimization and push processor-wide performance improvements in real time.

You will work with cross-functional teams to turn research into production-level software, explain your results clearly, and collaborate with partner researchers.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Physics, Engineering, or related discipline; PhD preferred.
• 3+ years of research experience in a relevant field.
• Experience in tune-up and characterization of quantum dots is a plus.
• Strong numerical, statistical learning, and optimization skills.
• Proficiency in software development for qubit measurement and control (Python, C++, Rust).

Responsibilities

• Develop software solutions for calibration and optimization of quantum dot devices.
• Build robust routines for coarse tuning and calibrating high-fidelity gates.
• Optimize processor performance at scale with real-time retuning.
• Collaborate with research, product and engineering teams to translate ideas into tools.
• Document and present research solutions in accessible language.
• Engage with partner researchers and organizations to discuss calibration routines.

Skills

Python

C++

Rust

Numerical techniques

Statistical learning

Optimization algorithms

Education

Advanced degree in Physics or Engineering

PhD preferred

3+ years research experience

Tools

Qubit measurement modules

Qubit control software

Job description

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.

What you’ll be doing:

• 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.

Ideally you'll 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.

We take a multidisciplinary approach to quantum computing research, bringing together experts from diverse fields. We particularly value versatile and self-motivated problem solvers.

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. Depending on the position offered, this role may be eligible for annual discretionary bonuses, equity and other forms of compensation outside of the targeted range. For more information on benefits at Q-CTRL, please visit our careers page at https://q-ctrl.com/careers.

About Q-CTRL

Q-CTRL is the global leader in AI-powered quantum control infrastructure software. We build the tools that make quantum technology useful, solving the hardest challenges in quantum computing and quantum sensing to deliver real-world impact.

Founded in 2017, we operate globally with offices in Sydney, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Huntsville, Berlin, and Oxford. Our teams bring together technical and multi-disciplinary expertise across the product lifecycle, and we’re hiring talent to help scale every part of the business. We work quickly to turn cutting-edge science into deployable technology.

In 2024 we raised US$113 million in Series B funding, the largest aggregate investment for a quantum software company. Six months later we delivered the first commercial quantum advantage with Ironstone Opal, our field-validated quantum navigation solution for defense and industry.

At Q-CTRL, we prioritize outcomes over hours. We offer flexibility, equity potential, and competitive benefits that reflect our high-performance culture.

Please be advised that our communications will only come from the @q-ctrl.com domain. All our active job postings are available on our company website.