Staff Scientist, Quantum Algorithms and Applications

We are looking for a Staff Scientist, Quantum Algorithms and Applications to join the Computational Sciences team at IonQ. This is a newly formed group within Applications R&D, focused on general physics problems in condensed matter and high energy physics alongside combinatorial optimization. You will bring dedicated condensed matter and high energy physics capability into the team, applied through quantum computation on IonQ's trapped-ion systems, working on problems that today are delivered through a borrowed virtual team drawn from across the organisation. The work sits at the meeting point of traditional classical simulation and fault-tolerant quantum computing, and the role demands real capability in both. You will bring judgement about where each approach earns its place, working independently against goals and helping shape how IonQ tackles real scientific problems as the company moves towards fault-tolerant applications.

Responsibilities

Lead condensed matter and high energy physics application projects, working independently against agreed goals; Connect physics problems to quantum computation, selecting appropriate fault-tolerant algorithms and mapping problems onto quantum-native formulations; Combine classical simulation and HPC workloads with quantum methods in integrated end-to-end workflows; Compare computed results against experimental data, including neutron scattering observables such as dynamical structure factors and spectral functions; Collaborate with other fault-tolerant algorithms researchers and with the quantum chemistry and software engineering teams, and contribute to publications and external technical representation

Requirements

A doctorate in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or a related field, with postdoctoral or industry experience and a track record of carrying research forward independently; Deep expertise in condensed matter or high energy physics: magnetic systems, strongly correlated materials, superconductivity, spin dynamics, Fermi-Hubbard models, lattice gauge theory or related areas; Experience with classical simulation methods and HPC workloads for these problems, ideally including packages such as QuantumATK, QuantumEspresso or VASP, and an understanding of how to integrate classical and quantum approaches; Direct experience applying quantum algorithms to scientific problems, including fault-tolerant methods such as quantum phase estimation, Hamiltonian simulation or quantum singular value transformation, and an understanding of how they map onto condensed matter and high energy physics problems; Scientific programming in Python and C++ sufficient to integrate tools, run computations and maintain a code base in version control

Nice to have

hands-on use of classical packages including QuantumATK, QuantumEspresso or VASP; the ability to design novel fault-tolerant algorithms; a peer-reviewed publication record; client or partner facing delivery experience; active participation in the fault-tolerant quantum computing community through tools, metrics, talks, repositories or patents; familiarity with agentic AI tooling such as OpenAI Codex or Anthropic Claude Code

Benefits

comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans; matching 401(k); unlimited PTO and paid holidays; parental/adoption leave; legal insurance; home technology stipend