Lead Microwave Research Scientist

Job Description

Job Title: Lead Microwave Research Scientist. Location: Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Responsibilities:

• Work with system architecture teams to translate system-level requirements into detailed component-level specifications and design rules.
• Design microwave circuits considering performance targets, fabrication constraints, and interactions with quantum system components.
• Develop and fabricate microwave test devices for quantum control and measurement systems.
• Lead relationships with external fabrication and testing vendors to scale device production;
• Collaborate with internal test and measurement teams to ensure devices meet required specifications.
• Contribute to the development of superconducting qubit measurement systems and related quantum hardware infrastructure.
• Support integration of microwave circuits with optical and electronic systems for optimized quantum performance.
• Work in cross-functional teams including hardware, systems, and research groups.

Qualifications:

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field (Master’s with strong experience may be considered).
• 5+ years of experience fabricating microwave devices.
• Strong background in RF and microwave circuit design and fabrication.
• Experience with electromagnetic modeling and circuit design tools;
• Ability to work in cross-disciplinary research and engineering teams.
• Strong communication skills for technical writing and presentations.

Preferred:

• Experience in superconducting filter and microwave device design.
• Strong understanding of superconducting circuit modeling, testing, and fabrication.
• Knowledge of cryogenic testing environments and low-temperature device behavior.
• Familiarity with distributed quantum computing, sensing, and networking architectures;
• Experience contributing to research funding proposals or leading research initiatives.
• Experience mentoring or helping build research and engineering teams.
• Proficiency in Python and Jupyter-based scientific workflows.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary range: $141,670 – $181,482 annually.
• Total compensation includes base salary, bonus, and equity.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement benefits including 401(k) matching.
• Unlimited PTO and paid holidays;
• Parental and adoption leave programs.
• Legal insurance and home technology stipend.
• Access to a collaborative research environment in quantum computing, networking, sensing, and security.
• Opportunities to work on cutting-edge quantum platforms deployed via major cloud providers.

Other Information:

• Onsite role based in Boston, MA.
• Travel requirement: less than 10%;
• Applicants must meet U.S. export control requirements (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible protected individual status).
• IonQ is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and equitable advancement.
• The role supports advanced quantum hardware development across computing, sensing, and networking systems.