Senior Research Scientist, Applications & Algorithms

About the team

The Quantum Computing Research team is dedicated to developing innovative methods to get the best possible performance from contemporary and next generation quantum computers. We push toward quantum advantage by developing cutting-edge applications, employing AI, control theory, and physics principles to optimize and automate critical parts of the quantum computing stack. We conduct pioneering research looking toward the near future, including quantum error correction and the integration of quantum computers with high performance computing and data centers.

At Q-CTRL, we’re pioneering the future of quantum technology. Our Applications and Algorithms team is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to drive our mission toward near-term quantum advantage—credible, reproducible demonstrations that achieve performance wins over state-of-the-art classical methods.

This role focuses on designing, analyzing, and deploying quantum algorithms and workflows that reveal clear scaling advantages on near-term hardware. You’ll explore areas such as quantum optimization, simulation, chemistry, cryptography, and machine learning, leveraging Q-CTRL’s control and performance-management stack to build the foundations of useful quantum computation.

You’ll work closely across research, engineering, and product teams to translate scientific insights into robust, validated applications. This is your opportunity to make a real impact at the frontier of quantum computing.

• Identify, formulate, and prioritize specific problem instances and applications within selected domains (e.g., chemistry, optimization) that offer credible opportunities for near-term quantum advantage, supported by feasibility and scaling analyses.
• Design, implement, and execute quantum algorithms on real hardware, leveraging advanced control and performance-management techniques.
• Perform quantitative benchmarking and ablation studies to isolate and validate the true sources of quantum performance gains relative to optimized classical approaches.
• Draw on methods from diverse fields—including control theory, optimization, machine learning, computer science, and data analysis—to enhance algorithmic performance.
• Develop and maintain high-quality research code for quantum algorithm optimization and near-term application studies.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to translate research concepts into production-ready software integrated within Q-CTRL’s product ecosystem.
• Communicate your work clearly and accessibly, incorporating feedback and fostering strong cross-team collaboration.
• Publish and present your research in peer-reviewed journals and at leading conferences; engage with external academic and industrial collaborators.
• Other duties within the Employee's skills and experience, or with reasonable training.

• An advanced degree in Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related discipline. A PhD is preferred, but we will also consider exceptional individuals with previous industry experience.
• Expertise in quantum computing, quantum algorithms, or quantum control. For this role, we would like to see depth in one or more of: quantum optimization, simulation, chemistry, cryptography, or quantum machine learning.
• A track record of impactful research, demonstrated through publications or presentations in well-regarded journals and conferences.
• Experience in developing software for scientific experiments using Python.

• Familiarity with executing circuits in Qiskit.
• Familiarity with error suppression techniques used in quantum computing, such as dynamical decoupling, readout mitigation, zero-noise extrapolation, Pauli twirling, or pulse-level optimization.
• A strong background in relevant methods from fields such as control theory, optimization, machine learning, or data analysis.
• Experience with GPUs, TPUs, and other forms of hardware-accelerated computing.
• Exceptional scientific communication skills, evidenced by a track record of teaching, scientific outreach, writing, producing elegant figures and visualizations, and speaking in front of both…