Staff Scientist - Quantum Applications - Chicago

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution.

We are looking for a Staff Scientist in Quantum Applications to provide technical leadership and hands-on execution across complex, multi-stakeholder quantum application efforts in developing next-generation quantum algorithms and applications on IonQ’s trapped-ion quantum computers. This role is central to IonQ’s mission to translate quantum computing advances into real-world scientific and commercial impact. You will be a quantum algorithms subject matter expert, work closely with internal teams, customers, and partners, drive high-impact applications, and support a new landmark initiative with the University of Chicago.

Responsibilities:

• Provide technical direction and architectural guidance across multiple quantum application efforts, including establishing best practices for benchmarking, performance analysis, and solution design

• Develop, implement, and optimize novel quantum algorithms that will make scientific and commercial impact in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning

• Work with customers and partners to define and solve problems of real-world interest using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers

• Discover innovative solutions, rigorously benchmark their performance, and publish results in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and conferences

• Help shape team culture and create a lasting impact by supporting an initiative that delivers new scientific discoveries and innovation

You’d be a good fit with:

• 8+ years of professional experience in quantum computing, applied algorithms, or advanced scientific computing, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

• Demonstrated expertise in Python and/or C++, and deep, hands-on experience with Qiskit or similar quantum SDKs

• Hands-on experience developing and optimizing quantum algorithms in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning

• Track record of delivering innovative quantum solutions demonstrated through peer-reviewed manuscripts, invited talks, open-source repositories, licenses, publications, and/or patents

• Deep understanding of key quantum computing concepts and the ability to articulate deeply technical ideas to diverse audiences, ranging from scientists and engineers to business leaders and community stakeholders

• Demonstrated ability to lead technical efforts from problem definition to solution delivery, with strong collaboration and communication skills

You’d be a great fit with:

• Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics, or a closely related field

• Experience with end-to-end ownership of complex quantum application efforts, including the ability to mentor interns and provide technical guidance to junior team members

• Experience with variational quantum algorithms and hybrid quantum-classical workloads spanning CPUs, GPUs, and QPUs

• Experience with developing high-performing algorithms optimized for NISQ systems as well as error-corrected and fault-tolerant quantum computers

• Demonstrated experience with quantum algorithm resource estimation, performance benchmarking, and scaling analysis

• Prior success working with customers, industry partners, or government sponsors to deliver advanced technical solutions

Location: Remote, US
Travel: 10% domestic and international travel supporting customer engagements and technical conference participation
Job ID: 1314

The approximate base salary range for this position is $167,808 - $219,704. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity.

Compensation will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Beyond base salary, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component and a range of benefit options found on our career site at ionq.co/jobs. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment. Our US benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance!

IonQ's HQ is located in College Park, Maryland, just outside of Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in Bothell, WA (near Seattle). Depending on the position, you may be required to be near one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, Toronto, Canada, and Basel, Switzerland. However, IonQ will expand into additional domestic and international geographies, so don’t let this stop you from applying!

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices and viewpoints and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

US Technical Jobs. The position you are applying for will require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying “U.S. Person” (e.g., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum) status for export controls and government contracts work, obtaining any necessary license, and/or confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Please note that in the absence of confirming you are a U.S. Person for export control and government contracts work purposes, IonQ may choose not to apply for a license or decline to use a license exception (if available) for you to access export-controlled technology that may require authorization, and similarly, you may not qualify for government contracts work that requires U.S. Persons, and IonQ may decline to proceed with your application on those bases alone. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law.

US Non-Technical Jobs. Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law.

If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!