Quantum Computing Applications Research

Job Description

Job Title: Intern 2026: Quantum Computing Applications Research. Location: Yorktown Heights (NY), San Jose (CA), Cambridge (MA), Albany (NY), United States

As an intern in Quantum Computing Applications Research, you will join a team focused on identifying and implementing groundbreaking quantum algorithms and applications with real-world impact.

Responsibilities:

• Identify and analyze potential quantum algorithms and application areas suitable for near-term and early fault-tolerant quantum devices.
• Benchmark classical algorithms for comparison against quantum approaches;
• Evaluate resource requirements based on problem size, implementation strategies, and circuit synthesis.
• Implement and test near-term algorithms on current quantum processors using frameworks such as Qiskit.
• Develop new tools and capabilities to enable large-scale quantum experiments.
• Explore compiler optimizations for quantum circuits targeting fault-tolerant architectures.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related field.

Preferred Education

• Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.

Required Technical Skills

• Background in quantum algorithm design, analysis, or compiler/computer architecture.
• Familiarity with experimental realization of quantum algorithms;
• Strong programming skills in Python or other scientific computing languages.

Preferred Technical Skills

• Experience in high-performance computing languages (Rust, C++, or similar).
• Exposure to large-scale software engineering projects.
• Familiarity with error mitigation, error suppression, or quantum control techniques.
• Hands-on experience with Qiskit or similar frameworks (e.g., Cirq, Braket, PennyLane).

Benefits and Other Details:

• Internship role with no travel required.
• Competitive compensation, pro-rated for internship duration.
• Eligible for paid holidays, sick time, family medical leave, and disability benefits (where applicable).
• Opportunity to participate in IBM Employee Stock Purchase Plan;
• Inclusive workplace: IBM is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and fair employment practices.