Software Validation Scientist, Quantum Computing

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:
As a Software Validation Scientist, you will work alongside senior scientific and technical staff to test, update, and benchmark quantum computing software tools.

What you'll be doing::
• Work closely with researchers and engineers to test and deliver high-performing software tools for quantum computing.
• Familiarize yourself with Q-CTRL tools and the scientific methods behind them; Conduct systematic reviews of related tools, such as open-source software and external products. Understand Q-CTRL tools from the point of view of a quantum computing expert, and conduct exploratory and comparative research.
• Stay informed about the latest advances in quantum computing, and leverage this knowledge to refine and improve Q-CTRL products.
• Contribute to software development directly via usage of development code and benchmarking of software tools.
• Engage with users to gather feedback and enhance our products.
• Explain and present your work in clear and accessible language. Incorporate feedback and foster effective collaboration with colleagues.

Ideally you'll have::
• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Expertise, interest, and literacy in quantum computing. Specifically, for this role we would like to see hands-on experience during university coursework and projects, and/or during previous employment.
• Strong coding skills in one of the commonly-used languages such as Python, Julia, Matlab, or Mathematica (our team primarily uses Python).
• Curiosity and initiative - you should enjoy designing tests, actively searching for ways to break or expose weaknesses in software, figuring out the ‘why’ and communicating your insights.

Skills we also value (one or more is desirable, but not required)::
• Research experience relevant to quantum computing or quantum technology, as evidenced by publications or conference presentations.
• A PhD in a relevant discipline.
• Experience running jobs/circuits on real quantum computers.
• Familiarity with Qiskit.
• Software development experience, familiarity with version control (git) .
• Exceptional scientific communication skills, evidenced by a track-record of teaching, scientific outreach, writing, producing elegant figures and visualizations, and/or speaking in front of both general and expert audiences.

We take a multidisciplinary approach to quantum computing research, bringing together experts from diverse fields. We particularly value versatile and self-motivated problem solvers. If you are passionate about making quantum computers useful, we strongly encourage you to apply, even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above.

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, 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. If you’re ready to help shape the future of quantum, we’d love to hear from you!

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.

To recruitment agencies, we do not accept unsolicited branded profiles and are not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.