Staff Scientist — Quantum Algorithms & Applications

Physics World; Bothell (WA); Hybrid; USD 175,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

IonQ, Inc. is seeking a Staff Scientist in Quantum Algorithms and Applications to join the Computational Sciences team.

You will lead projects applying quantum algorithms to condensed matter and high energy physics problems, designing near‑term fault-tolerant methods and integrating classical simulations with quantum workflows. You will work with hardware-aware algorithm design, perform resource estimation, and collaborate with compiler and QEC teams to advance IonQ’s trapped‑ion systems.

Qualifications

• Doctorate in physics or related field with postdoctoral or industrial experience.
• Experience implementing quantum algorithms on near‑term hardware and applying them to scientific problems.
• Depth of expertise in condensed matter or high energy physics and familiarity with classical simulation/HPC workflows.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and application of quantum algorithms to condensed matter and high energy physics problems.
• Develop fault-tolerant algorithms and error mitigation/detection methods for near‑term hardware.
• Codesign algorithms with compiler and QEC teams for future IonQ trapped‑ion systems.
• Collaborate across physics, chemistry, and software engineering to publish results.

Skills

Quantum Algorithms

Condensed Matter Physics

High Energy Physics

HPC Simulations

Python

C++

Education

Doctorate in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or related field

Tools

QuantumATK

QuantumEspresso

VASP

Job description

IonQ, Inc. is seeking a Staff Scientist in Quantum Algorithms and Applications to join the Computational Sciences team.

You will lead projects applying quantum algorithms to condensed matter and high energy physics problems, designing near‑term fault-tolerant methods and integrating classical simulations with quantum workflows. You will work with hardware-aware algorithm design, perform resource estimation, and collaborate with compiler and QEC teams to advance IonQ’s trapped‑ion systems.