Research Scientist, Superconducting Qubits

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Research Scientist, Superconducting Qubits. Location: Los Angeles, California, USA

Job Type: Full-Time (Permanent, Hybrid)

Responsibilities:

• Develop tools and techniques for modeling and simulation of superconducting qubits.
• Design and implement software solutions for calibration and optimization of superconducting quantum hardware.
• Build robust routines for tuning and optimizing high-fidelity two-qubit gates.
• Optimize quantum processor performance at scale and maintain peak operational performance in real time.
• Provide theoretical support to superconducting hardware automation efforts;
• Perform cryogenic measurements and characterization of superconducting qubits.
• Develop new modules within the superconducting software codebase.
• Create and maintain testing frameworks and technical documentation.
• Review software contributions from team members and support code quality initiatives.
• Collaborate with engineering, research, and product teams to convert research outcomes into production-ready software tools.
• Present research findings and technical solutions to both technical and non-technical audiences;
• Support additional research and development activities aligned with the employee's skills and experience.

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
• PhD preferred, although exceptional candidates with relevant industry experience will also be considered.
• Experience conducting research in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline.
• Previous experience with tune-up and characterization of superconducting qubits.
• Expertise in numerical methods, statistical learning, and optimization algorithms;
• Strong understanding of software development best practices.
• Experience developing software modules for qubit measurement and control.
• Programming experience with Python, C++, or Rust.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred:

• Deep understanding of superconducting quantum hardware and control systems.
• Experience working on large-scale quantum processor optimization.
• Background in quantum hardware automation and calibration workflows.
• Experience translating research innovations into production software environments.
• Interest in quantum error correction and next-generation quantum computing architectures.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary range: $160,000 - $200,000 per year.
• Potential eligibility for:
  • Annual discretionary bonuses.
  • Equity compensation.
  • Additional compensation programs.
• Flexible work environment focused on outcomes rather than hours worked.
• Competitive benefits package;
• Opportunity to work with one of the world's leading quantum technology companies.
• Access to cutting-edge quantum computing and quantum control research projects.

Other Information:

• Work arrangement: Hybrid.
• Q-CTRL is a global leader in AI-powered quantum control infrastructure software.
• The company operates offices in Sydney, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Berlin, and Oxford;
• Q-CTRL raised $113 million in Series B funding in 2024 and achieved the first commercial quantum advantage with its Ironstone Opal quantum navigation solution.
• Applications from qualified candidates with arrest or conviction records will be considered in accordance with applicable California and Los Angeles regulations.
• Q-CTRL may use AI-assisted tools during portions of the hiring process, but all hiring decisions are made by human reviewers.
• Recruitment communications will only originate from official @q-ctrl.com email addresses.
• Unsolicited agency submissions will not be accepted.