Staff Algorithms Researcher

Job Description

Job Title: Staff Algorithms Researcher [516]. Location: Remote, United States / Burnaby, Canada

Responsibilities:

• Develop graph-theoretical algorithms for mapping optimization problems to the topology of quantum computers.
• Lead complex research and development initiatives focused on benchmarking, characterization, and performance optimization of quantum computing systems.
• Design, develop, and evaluate existing and novel quantum-classical hybrid algorithms.
• Independently identify, define, and execute research opportunities that advance algorithmic performance, benchmarking methodologies, and system capabilities.
• Evaluate emerging research, benchmarks, and methodologies from scientific literature for technical validity, reproducibility, and business relevance.
• Design and execute experiments to characterize QPU contributions within hybrid algorithms and broader system workflows;
• Analyze experimental and benchmarking results to identify trends, inform technical strategy, and guide system-level improvements.
• Develop scalable benchmarking frameworks, tools, and processes to improve research efficiency, technical rigor, and decision-making.
• Communicate research findings and recommendations to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Collaborate with physicists, computer scientists, software developers, product teams, and other domain experts.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance within areas of expertise.
• Contribute to research methodologies, technical standards, and best practices across the team.

Qualifications:

• Master’s or PhD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of relevant research and development experience, with a record of independently leading complex technical initiatives.
• Deep knowledge of graph theory.
• Deep proficiency in Python and C++.
• Strong foundation in algorithm development.
• Experience with machine learning, Monte Carlo methods, statistical physics, optimization, or related fields;
• Ability to interpret, reproduce, extend, and critically evaluate complex algorithms and experimental results from scientific literature.
• Demonstrated experience conducting independent research and developing novel approaches to complex technical challenges.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including exploratory data analysis and statistical evaluation of experimental results.
• Excellent technical communication and scientific writing skills.
• Experience presenting findings to audiences with different levels of technical expertise.
• Ability to influence technical direction, collaborate across teams, and contribute to the development of others.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary for the United States remote position: $146,000 to $185,000 USD per year.
• Base salary for the Burnaby, Canada position: $149,000 to $190,000 CAD per year.
• Compensation may vary based on proficiency within the role's level;
• Total rewards may include base salary, equity, bonus, perks, benefits, and other offerings.
• The recruiter will explain the company's total-rewards structure during the interview process.

Other Information:

• The position is part of Research and Development.
• Available locations are Burnaby, Canada, and Remote, United States.
• No third-party candidates will be accepted.
• D-Wave states that it is an equal employment opportunity employer;
• The role involves technical leadership, independent research, benchmarking, and development of quantum-classical hybrid algorithms.
• D-Wave develops both quantum annealing and gate-model quantum computing technologies.