Principal Research Scientist - Quantum Computing Applications

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and equity options

Health, dental, and vision benefits

Home office setup allowance

Remote-first environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to lead remote, cutting-edge research in quantum algorithms for applications across materials science, pharmaceuticals, and finance. The role emphasizes independent, high-impact work in a remote-first, collaborative environment with cross-disciplinary teams.

The ideal candidate will possess a PhD and 8+ years of quantum computing research, with strong publication records, advanced knowledge of quantum algorithms, and experience mentoring

Qualifications

• PhD in related field with quantum computing specialization.
• 8+ years of quantum computing research with publications.
• Deep knowledge of quantum algorithms (Shor's, Grover's, VQE) and error correction.
• Proficiency with Qiskit, Cirq or PennyLane.
• Experience benchmarking quantum algorithms against classical methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead research on developing and adapting quantum algorithms for scientific and industrial applications.
• Design and run quantum simulation experiments on platforms and simulators.
• Collaborate with physicists, CS and domain experts to address challenges.
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Evaluate performance and scalability of quantum algorithms and optimize.
• Contribute to strategic direction of quantum research within the organization.
• Mentor junior researchers in a remote setting.
• Stay updated on quantum hardware, software, and algorithms.

Skills

Analytical problem solving

Communication & collaboration

Mentoring/leadership

Education

PhD in Physics/CS/Math or related field (quantum computing)

Tools

Qiskit

Cirq

PennyLane

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a visionary leader in exploring the transformative potential of quantum computing for complex scientific challenges. We are seeking an exceptional Principal Research Scientist to join our **fully remote** team and lead groundbreaking research into quantum algorithms and their applications in fields such as materials science, pharmaceuticals, and financial modeling. This is a unique opportunity for a deeply experienced quantum computing expert to shape the future of computational science from anywhere, contributing to paradigm-shifting discoveries. You will be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what's possible, working on highly challenging theoretical and practical problems in a collaborative, **remote-first** environment. We are committed to fostering an environment where innovation thrives and scientific curiosity is paramount.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research initiatives focused on developing and adapting quantum algorithms for specific scientific and industrial applications.
• Design and implement quantum simulation experiments using quantum computing platforms and simulators.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams of physicists, computer scientists, and domain experts to identify and address key challenges.
• Publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
• Evaluate the performance and scalability of quantum algorithms and propose optimizations.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of quantum computing research within the organization.
• Mentor junior researchers and foster a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning in a **remote** setting.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in quantum hardware, software, and algorithms.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field with a specialization in quantum computing.
• Minimum of 8 years of research experience in quantum computing, with a proven track record of publications and contributions to the field.
• Deep understanding of quantum mechanics, quantum algorithms (e.g., Shor's, Grover's, VQE), and quantum error correction.
• Proficiency in quantum programming languages and frameworks such as Qiskit, Cirq, or PennyLane.
• Experience with classical computational methods for benchmarking and comparison.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle highly complex and abstract problems.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, essential for effective work in a **remote** team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and mentor junior scientists.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional compensation package, including a competitive salary, significant bonus potential, and equity options.
• We provide comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, a generous retirement savings plan, and a substantial budget for professional development, including attendance at leading quantum computing conferences.
• We also offer a home office setup allowance and promote a healthy work-life balance, all within a dynamic and intellectually stimulating **remote** work environment.
• Join us and be at the forefront of the quantum revolution.