Senior Memory Scientist

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped‑ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ's computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more.

IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution.

We are looking for a Senior Physicist for quantum memory development. As a Senior Physicist, you'll lead part of a cross‑functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most complex problems.

In this role, you will do pioneering work in quantum memories for long‑range quantum networks and modular quantum computing. You will work with a world‑class team of scientists and engineers to build systems that can rapidly process and store quantum information from photons and apply those systems to building scalable quantum computing systems. Your work will stretch from pioneering systems to operationalizing and scaling quantum memory systems that will be the backbone of the world's largest quantum computers.

• Design and test control sequences for quantum memories with high efficiency and fidelity
• Coordinate with photonic design and fabrication teams to produce high performance nanophotonic devices
• Optimize low‑duty cycle tune‑up routines to keep quantum memory systems running with high uptime
• Continuously improve repetition rate, efficiency, and fidelity of quantum memories
• Interface with RF and optical engineers to scale the control and qubit routing systems for a large scale optical‑interconnect architecture

• PhD in physics, applied physics, or electrical engineering
• Work in quantum optics and microwave control of qubits (ideally spin qubits in diamond)
• Experience designing and testing photonics
• Experience in optically‑mediated entanglement protocols between qubits

• Experience architecting high performance electro‑optic systems
• Experience in cryogenics (especially dilution refrigerators)
• Experience in RF design
• Experience using Lumerical, Comsol, and/or Sonnet for photonics and RF design

Boston, onsite

Occasional domestic travel, 1 to 4 times per year.

Job

The approximate base salary range for this position is $126,887 - $166,127. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity. Compensation will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Beyond base salary, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component and a range of benefit options found on our career site at  Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment.

Our US benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance.

IonQ's HQ is located in College Park, Maryland, just outside of Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in Bothell, WA (near Seattle). Depending on the position, you may be required to be near one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, Toronto, Canada, and Basel, Switzerland. However, IonQ will expand into additional domestic and international geographies, so don't let this stop you from applying!

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices…