Lead Quantum Device Theorist

Job Description

Job Title: Lead Quantum Device Theorist. Location: Berkeley, CA or Fremont, CA, USA

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain advanced simulation tools to model noise sources in flux-tunable superconducting qubits.
• Model and analyze entangling gate operations on superconducting quantum processors;
• Apply optimal control techniques to improve quantum gate fidelity and qubit readout performance.
• Develop analytical tools to interpret experimental measurements and diagnose performance anomalies.
• Perform detailed error-budget modeling to support quantum error correction (QEC) efforts;
• Collaborate cross-functionally with teams in gate operations, measurement, device design, algorithms, applications, and control engineering.
• Translate theoretical modeling into actionable experimental improvements.
• Contribute to scalable quantum architectures and fault-tolerant error correction strategies.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in circuit QED, quantum device physics, or superconducting circuits.
• Strong expertise in modeling noise for quantum error correction, including coherent/incoherent errors, leakage, crosstalk, and correlated noise.
• Experience simulating open quantum systems and predicting experimental anomalies;
• Proven ability to collaborate with experimental teams on qubit readout, gate calibration, and control systems.
• Solid programming skills in Python for scientific applications.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred:

• Experience with optimal control theory applied to superconducting qubits.
• Familiarity with quantum error correction codes and fault-tolerant architectures.
• Track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals;
• Experience with high-performance computing or GPU-accelerated simulations.
• Proficiency with scientific computing libraries such as QuTiP or Stim.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary: $195,000–$225,000 per year, based on experience and skills.
• Equity options and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan and paid parental leave program;
• Vacation and rejuvenation days aligning with local regulations and industry standards.
• Work in a diverse, interdisciplinary, and mission-driven environment.