Senior Scientist, Quantum Applications - Chicago

We’re looking for a Senior Scientist in Quantum Applications who will be part of a cross-functional team at IonQ, with a mission to deliver the world’s best quantum solutions on the world’s most powerful trapped-ion quantum computers to solve some of the most complex and impactful problems. This role is central to IonQ’s mission to translate quantum computing advances into real-world scientific and commercial impact. You will develop end-to-end quantum applications that drive scientific advancement, collaborate with customers and community partners, and support a new landmark initiative with the University of Chicago.

Responsibilities: 

• Develop, implement, and optimize novel quantum algorithms, applications, and end-to-end workflows 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:

• 6+ years of professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated expertise in Python and/or C++, and experience with Qiskit or similar quantum SDKs
• Hands-on expertise developing or 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
• Strong foundation in 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
• Experience being part of a team that finds, defines, and solves problems of real-world interest, with strong collaboration skills and clear technical communication
  
  

You’d be a great fit with: 

• Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated experience contributing to customer-facing or partner-facing technical engagements, from problem definition through solution delivery
• Experience with variational quantum algorithms and hybrid quantum-classical workloads spanning CPUs, GPUs, and QPUs
• Experience developing hybrid quantum algorithms for NISQ-era systems as well as early fault-tolerant quantum computers
• Demonstrated experience with quantum algorithm resource estimation, performance benchmarking, and scaling analysis
• Proven success working with customers to define and deliver solutions
  
  

Location: Remote, US
Travel: 10%