Senior Researcher​/ Principal Researcher

Location: Flexibility:
Primary Location Only

Fujitsu Research of America, Inc. (FRA) is seeking a highly accomplished Quantum Applications Researcher to advance research and product strategy across quantum optimization, quantum AI/ML, quantum simulation, and quantum algorithmic primitives. The role involves translating cutting‑edge quantum methods into practical applications for enterprise and scientific use cases, publishing research, and building collaborations with academic, government, and commercial partners.

• Lead advanced research initiatives in quantum compilation, optimization, simulation, chemistry, algorithm design, and hybrid quantum‑classical methods.
• Develop novel algorithms and proof‑of‑concept techniques demonstrating the value of quantum approaches for real‑world problems.
• Identify promising near‑term and long‑term quantum applications, including NISQ‑era approaches and fault‑tolerant opportunities.
• Design and evaluate hybrid quantum‑classical algorithms using simulators, quantum hardware backends, and classical high‑performance computing resources.
• Publish high‑quality research papers in leading venues and generate patentable ideas to contribute to Fujitsu’s IP portfolio.
• Represent Fujitsu at conferences and industry events, delivering technical presentations for experts and executive audiences.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns.
• Collaborate with the platform team to convert research prototypes into robust, scalable component libraries and application modules.
• Develop reproducible code, documentation, test cases, and technical examples supporting internal teams, customers, and partners.
• Build and maintain research collaborations with universities, national labs, technology partners, and quantum ecosystem organizations across the US and Europe.
• Identify opportunities for joint research programs, sponsored research, grant proposals, and partnerships.
• Liaise with the global Fujitsu team to engage enterprise and government clients on quantum use cases.

• PhD in Physics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related quantum‑relevant field.
• Minimum 4+ years of research experience after PhD in quantum computing, quantum algorithms, quantum information, quantum simulation, quantum optimization, quantum machine learning, or a closely related area.
• Strong research track record through peer‑reviewed publications, conference presentations, patents, open‑source contributions, or recognized technical leadership.
• Deep understanding of quantum algorithms, hybrid quantum‑classical methods, and the practical limitations of current quantum hardware.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the following areas:
  • Quantum optimization (e.g., QAOA, variational optimization, quantum annealing, Ising/QUBO formulations, combinatorial optimization)
  • Quantum simulation (e.g., Hamiltonian simulation, VQE, quantum chemistry, condensed matter systems, materials simulation)
• Ability to develop original research ideas and translate them into prototypes, publications, patents, and product‑relevant capabilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, and ability to engage both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Experience collaborating across disciplines and working with researchers, partners, and external stakeholders.

• Strong coding background in Python and experience developing research‑grade or production‑quality scientific software.
• Hands‑on experience with quantum software frameworks such as Qiskit, Penny Lane, Cirq, Tket, or related tools.
• Experience with AI/ML frameworks such as PyTorch, Tensor Flow, JAX, scikit‑learn, or related libraries.
• Knowledge of at least one application domain (finance, energy, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, quantum chemistry, or materials science).
• Familiarity with NISQ‑era hardware constraints, error mitigation, noise modeling, quantum resource estimation, or fault‑tolerant resource analysis.

Salary range: $160,000 to $250,000 USD, with potential short‑term incentives based on company results and individual performance. Benefits include a full range of health, 401(k), and other wellness programs.

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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