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IonQ (NYSE: IONQ) is the world's leading quantum platform and merchant supplier, delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. ID Quantique (IDQ), part of IonQ, is a global leader in quantum-safe communications, protecting governments, telecom infrastructures, and financial institutions from harvest-now-decrypt-later threats through terrestrial and space-based quantum-safe networks.
You will own the classical cryptography architecture of IonQ's post-quantum cryptography (PQC) hardware acceleration products, targeting hardware security modules (HSMs) and network appliances. Real-world quantum-safe systems are hybrid systems where classical and post-quantum algorithms operate side by side with careful key management, crypto agility, and migration paths. You will be the senior technical authority for the classical and hybrid cryptographic layer, working alongside PQC architecture leadership.
Key responsibilities include:
- Own the architecture and implementation strategy of classical cryptographic functions: symmetric ciphers and modes (AES/GCM), hash functions (SHA-2/SHA-3, HMAC/KDF), RSA/ECC offload, and true random number generation/entropy architecture (SP 800-90A/B/C)
- Define hybrid classical/post-quantum schemes (key establishment, dual signatures, composite certificates) and crypto-agility mechanisms enabling safe customer migration
- Track standardization of hybrid and composite approaches (NIST guidance, IETF work on hybrid key establishment in TLS 1.3 and IKEv2, composite certificates)
- Guide RTL and software engineers implementing classical cores
- Technically evaluate third-party IP
- Support FIPS 140-3 and CAVP certification of the classical algorithm suite
- Own key-management and key-hierarchy architecture across the product, ensuring interoperability with deployed HSM, TLS, and IPsec ecosystems
You will define crypto-agility and migration mechanisms that allow customers to transition to quantum-safe deployments without breaking existing infrastructure.
Requirements:
- Master's or PhD in Cryptography, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- Minimum 12 years of experience implementing and architecting classical cryptography in real products (hardware, software, or both)
- Deep command of symmetric and asymmetric primitives, modes of operation, key management, and entropy generation
- Experience taking cryptographic subsystems through FIPS 140-3 or Common Criteria evaluation
- Solid working knowledge of NIST post-quantum algorithms (ML-KEM, ML-DSA, SLH-DSA) and their deployment constraints
- Understanding of practical constraints in deployed security infrastructure (HSMs, PKI, TLS, IPsec ecosystems)
- Knowledge of how hybrid classical/post-quantum schemes are standardized and deployed in practice
- Ability to write precise specifications, guide implementers effectively, and make sound architecture decisions under real-world interoperability constraints
- Fluency in English required; French or German advantageous
Preferred: Proven track record as architect of classical cryptographic subsystems with certification experience (FIPS 140-3, CAVP, Common Criteria); practical knowledge of hybrid classical/PQC schemes and crypto agility.
