Lead Quantum Computing Researcher

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 2,495,000 - 3,659,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Global health benefits

Retirement plan

Stock options

Flexible remote work

Unlimited paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Quantum Computing Researcher to drive innovation from anywhere in the world. You will lead development of quantum algorithms, explore hardware architectures, and push boundaries in quantum chemistry, optimization, and machine learning.

The role requires a PhD and 7+ years in quantum computing, with strong Python/Qiskit/Cirq/PennyLane skills and a track record of publications. Collaborative, remote-first team across time zones offers exceptional growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field with specialization in quantum computing.
• Minimum 7 years post-doctoral or significant industry experience in quantum computing research.
• Deep theoretical understanding of quantum mechanics, quantum information theory, and quantum algorithms.
• Proven experience in developing/implementing quantum algorithms and/or designing quantum hardware.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development of advanced quantum algorithms for applications (quantum chemistry simulations, optimization, quantum ML).
• Investigate and contribute to novel quantum hardware architectures and error correction schemes.
• Develop and implement quantum software/frameworks using Python and major quantum platforms.
• Collaborate with an international team of quantum scientists and engineers.
• Analyze and interpret results from quantum simulations and experiments.
• Stay at the cutting edge through literature and conferences.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to strategic research planning.
• Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at international symposia.
• Contribute to intellectual property development and patent applications.

Skills

Quantum programming

Python

Qiskit

Cirq

PennyLane

Education

PhD in Quantum Physics/Computer Science/Mathematics (quantum computing)

Tools

Qiskit

Cirq

PennyLane

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a pioneering technology firm at the forefront of quantum computing research, seeking an exceptional Lead Quantum Computing Researcher to drive innovation and lead groundbreaking projects. This fully remote position offers the unique opportunity to shape the future of computation from anywhere in the world, collaborating with a globally distributed team of leading scientists and engineers. You will be instrumental in developing novel quantum algorithms, exploring new quantum hardware architectures, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in fields like quantum chemistry, optimization, and machine learning. The ideal candidate will possess a deep theoretical understanding of quantum mechanics and quantum information science, combined with a proven ability to translate complex concepts into practical, implementable solutions. This is a chance to be at the vanguard of a technological revolution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of advanced quantum algorithms for specific applications (e.g., quantum chemistry simulations, optimization problems, quantum machine learning).
• Investigate and contribute to the design of novel quantum computing hardware architectures and error correction schemes.
• Develop and implement quantum software and frameworks using various quantum programming languages and platforms.
• Collaborate with a diverse, international team of quantum physicists, computer scientists, and domain experts.
• Analyze and interpret results from quantum simulations and experiments.
• Stay at the cutting edge of quantum computing research by actively engaging with scientific literature and conferences.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and contribute to strategic research planning.
• Publish findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and present at international symposia.
• Contribute to intellectual property development and patent applications.

Requirements

• PhD in Quantum Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field with a specialization in quantum computing.
• A minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral or significant industry experience in quantum computing research.
• Deep theoretical understanding of quantum mechanics, quantum information theory, and quantum algorithms.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing quantum algorithms and/or designing quantum hardware.
• Proficiency in programming languages relevant to quantum computing (e.g., Python with Qiskit, Cirq, PennyLane, or similar).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle highly complex theoretical and practical challenges.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, essential for effective remote teamwork across different time zones.
• Demonstrated leadership in research projects and the ability to mentor junior scientists.
• Track record of publications in leading quantum computing journals and conferences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive global health benefits, a substantial retirement savings plan, generous stock options, flexible remote work arrangements, unlimited paid time off, and exceptional opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.