SlipstreamJobs tracks this role from the company's public career site. Apply directly on the employer's site.
IonQ is the world's leading quantum computing platform and merchant supplier, delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. The company has achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity and set world records in quantum computing performance. IonQ operates globally with offices across North America, Europe, and Asia.
We are seeking a Quantum Scientist to join our UK Science team at our Oxford office. This role is based in Oxford with the option to work a few days per week remotely, with up to 5% travel.
As a Quantum Scientist, you will work at the forefront of our research efforts to develop the next generation of quantum computers. You will be responsible for validating and optimizing the performance of our quantum systems, playing a critical role in meeting our research and development goals and timelines. Your work will span designing, coding, debugging, and executing experiments, as well as developing and validating novel control schemes. You will document and share findings with the aim of pushing the boundaries of system performance.
Key responsibilities include:
- Prototyping and characterizing coherent control and cooling schemes for trapped-ion qubits using laser and microwave fields
- Calibrating and benchmarking quantum systems, focusing on achieving the highest fidelities for quantum circuit primitives (e.g., ion transport or gate operations) and full circuits
- Validating emerging trap technologies, including integrated electronics and photonics for large-scale architectures
- Analyzing experimental data, debugging complex hardware/software interactions, and ensuring reliability of qubit operations
Requirements:
- PhD in physics or a related discipline with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit-related physics
- Prior postdoctoral or industry experience is valuable, but applicants moving directly from a PhD are welcome
- Solid background in quantum control
- Hands-on experience in calibration, benchmarking, or coherent control of qubits (desirable)
- Proven expertise in experimental atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics or quantum computing; experience with trapped ions is beneficial but not essential
- Prior experience in one or more of: spectroscopy or coherent control of multi-level systems, characterization of control hardware, gate fidelity benchmarking, or running quantum circuits on hardware
- Strong proficiency in programming and data analysis; experience with Python or Rust is desirable
- Strong collaborative skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a fast-moving team
- Track record of scientific communication through publications, talks, and conferences (advantageous)
The company offers a competitive salary with IonQ stock options, annual performance bonus, generous annual leave, flexible hybrid working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, comprehensive benefits including matching 401(k), unlimited PTO, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, and home technology stipend.
