Staff Scientist - Quantum Applications - Chicago

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