Research Scientist

Overview

At IBM Research, we are advancing the frontiers of quantum computing by developing the algorithms and learning frameworks that will define its practical impact. Within IBM Quantum, our team focuses on foundational research in quantum algorithms and quantum machine learning, with the goal of identifying scalable, resource-efficient methods that leverage quantum systems for learning and simulation tasks.

This role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of quantum computing, machine learning, and high-performance computing. You will collaborate with leading researchers across IBM Research and external academic partners to develop rigorous benchmarks, scalable data embeddings, and novel algorithmic frameworks that push the boundaries of quantum-enabled learning. Joining IBM Research means contributing to long-term scientific breakthroughs while engaging with real quantum hardware and large-scale classical simulation tools.

We value intellectual depth, mathematical rigor, and creative problem solving in a highly collaborative research environment.

As a Research Scientist in Quantum Machine Learning and Quantum Algorithms, you will conduct foundational and applied research at the intersection of quantum computing and machine learning. You will contribute to the development of scalable quantum learning frameworks, resource-efficient quantum algorithms, and rigorous benchmarks for quantum advantage in learning tasks.

• Conduct original research in quantum machine learning, including variational quantum models, quantum kernels, generative models, and learning with quantum data
• Design and analyze scalable embeddings of classical and quantum data into quantum circuits, with attention to resource efficiency and generalization
• Develop theoretical and numerical benchmarks comparing quantum and classical learning models under clearly defined resource constraints
• Contribute to quantum algorithm development for simulation, optimization, and learning applications
• Implement and evaluate algorithms using quantum software frameworks such as Qiskit, including simulations and experiments on IBM quantum hardware
• Publish results in leading peer-reviewed venues and collaborate across IBM Research and external academic partners
• Mentor interns and junior researchers within the team

Doctorate Degree

• PhD in Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or related field
• Strong background in quantum computing theory and quantum algorithms
• Demonstrated research experience in quantum machine learning, quantum algorithms, quantum information theory, or related areas
• Publication record in recognized venues
• Experience with quantum circuit design and complexity or resource analysis
• Proficiency in Python and experience with quantum SDKs such as Qiskit
• Ability to independently formulate research problems and drive projects to publication

• Experience analyzing generalization in quantum learning models
• Knowledge of tensor network methods and classical simulation tools
• Familiarity with noise modeling and hardware constraints in NISQ devices
• Experience mentoring students or leading research projects
• Interest in quantum-enhanced AI or AI-for-quantum applications