Staff Algorithms Researcher [516]

Clutch Canada; United States; On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

D-Wave Systems Inc. is seeking a Staff Benchmarking / HDP Researcher to join the Algorithms, Performance, and Tools team.

You will lead research and development efforts in the Hybrid Development Program, driving algorithmic innovation, benchmarking strategy, and performance characterization of quantum computing systems. This role requires deep algorithmic expertise and the ability to translate complex research into practical improvements that enhance system performance.

Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency in Python; C++ is an asset.
• Strong background in algorithm development and ML.
• Experience with Monte Carlo methods and statistical physics is valued.

Responsibilities

• Lead benchmarking, characterization, and performance optimization for quantum computing systems.
• Develop and evaluate hybrid quantum-classical algorithms.
• Identify and execute research opportunities to advance algorithmic performance and system capabilities.
• Critically evaluate literature and benchmarks for technical validity and relevance.
• Design experiments to characterize QPU contributions within workflows.
• Analyze results to inform technical strategy and system improvements.
• Develop scalable benchmarking frameworks, tools, and processes.
• Communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills

Python

C++

Algorithm development

Machine learning

Monte Carlo methods

Statistical physics

Exploratory data analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/Physics/Math

Job description

D-Wave (NYSE: QBTS), D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. It is the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the first and only to offer dual-platform quantum computing products and services, spanning both annealing and gate-model quantum computing technologies. D-Wave’s mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum today through enterprise-grade systems available on-premises and via its Leap™ quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations across commercial, government, and research sectors trust D-Wave to address complex computational challenges using quantum computing. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how D-Wave is shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.

About the role

D-Wave is seeking a Staff Benchmarking / HDP Researcher to join our Algorithms, Performance, and Tools team. In this role, you will lead research and development efforts within the Hybrid Development Program, driving algorithmic innovation, benchmarking strategy, and performance characterization of quantum computing systems. You will independently lead complex research initiatives, design and execute experiments, analyze system performance, and influence technical direction through data-driven insights.

Success in this role requires deep algorithmic expertise, strong scientific judgment, and the ability to translate complex research into practical improvements that advance system performance and scalability. You will collaborate across teams, provide technical leadership within your area of expertise, and help shape the evolution of our benchmarking and hybrid algorithm development efforts. This is an opportunity to contribute at the forefront of quantum computing, enabling solutions used by leading organizations across industry, government, and academia.

What you'll do

• Lead complex research and development initiatives focused on benchmarking, characterization, and performance optimization of quantum computing systems.
• Drive the design, development, and evaluation of existing and novel quantum-classical hybrid algorithms.
• Independently identify, define, and execute research opportunities that advance algorithmic performance, benchmarking methodologies, and system capabilities.
• Critically evaluate emerging research, benchmarks, and methodologies from scientific literature, assessing technical validity, reproducibility, and business relevance.
• Design and execute experiments to characterize QPU contributions within hybrid algorithms and broader system workflows.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of experimental and benchmarking results to identify trends, inform technical strategy, and guide system-level improvements.
• Develop scalable benchmarking frameworks, tools, and processes that improve research efficiency, technical rigor, and decision-making.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences, tailoring content to varying levels of expertise.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with physicists, computer scientists, software developers, product teams, and other domain experts to integrate multidisciplinary insights into research initiatives.
• Serve as a technical resource within the organization, providing mentorship, guidance, and thought leadership in areas of expertise.
• Contribute to the evolution of research methodologies, technical standards, and best practices across the team.

About You

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of relevant research and development experience, with a demonstrated record of independently leading complex technical initiatives.
• Deep proficiency in Python; experience with C++ is an asset.
• Strong foundation in algorithm development, with experience in machine learning, Monte Carlo methods, statistical physics, optimization, or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret, reproduce, extend, and critically evaluate complex algorithms and experimental results from scientific literature.
• Proven track record of conducting independent research, developing novel approaches, and solving complex technical challenges.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including experience with exploratory data analysis and statistical evaluation of experimental results.
• Excellent technical communication and scientific writing skills, with experience presenting findings to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to influence technical direction, collaborate across teams, and contribute to the growth and development of others.

A D-Waver's DNA

• We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.
• We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
• We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
• As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Inclusion

We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with dozens of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.

Our Compensation Philosophy is Simple but Powerful:

We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team.

During the interview process, your Recruiter will explain how our rubrics work across all our total rewards (base, equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture) offerings. The base salary for this role is as noted below for the two applicable locations. The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.

The Fine Print:

No 3rd party candidates will be accepted

It is D-Wave Systems Inc. policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.