Senior Atomic Physicist

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 optical signal chain development. As a Senior Physicist, you'll be 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 on optical signal chains 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 optical signal chains that will be the backbone of the world's largest quantum computers.

• Evaluate how pieces of the optical signal chain can be hardened for autonomous operation and production
• Investigate the feasibility in prototype experiments and develop routines that calibrate and maintain the optical setup.
• Benchmarking different variations of the signal chain against each other by comparing signal losses (impacting the rate) with stability (possibly impacting both rate and fidelity) and scalability;
• Coordinate with other teams internally at IonQ and/or with external vendors to develop subcomponents.

• PhD in physics, applied physics, electrical engineering
• Work in quantum optics and quantum computing (ideally previous work with single photons)
• Experience designing and testing complex opto-mechanical and opto-electronical setups (including using acousto-optical and electro-optical modulators for intensity and frequency feedback loops)
• Experience in developing automated routines (hardware & software) that calibrate and maintain setups autonomously

• Experience in optically-mediated entanglement protocols between qubits
• Experience in quantum frequency conversion
• Experience in writing software for lab environments (preferred language: Python)

Location: Boston, MA

Travel: Occasional domestic travel, 1 to 4 times per year.

Job : IONQ-1272

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,…