2026 PhD Graduate - Applied Quantum Computing Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

About The Position

Do you dream of using your knowledge and skill to make a lasting impact on our ability to protect critical national assets which rely on computers? Do you relish the challenge of working on problems others claim are "too hard?" Do you enjoy working on new ideas and creative solutions? If you have a PhD in Computer Science, Math, Physics, or related fields, and want to contribute to important national security missions, we’d love to have you join our team! We are seeking dedicated individuals to perform purposeful research and development toward building new capabilities to ensure the resilience, safety, and security across a range of military and intelligence community systems. Our team actively works to develop and support state-of-the-art capabilities in Quantum Computing. As a member of our team, you will... Collaborate with computer scientists, mathematicians, and physicists on exciting research projects involving quantum computing. Participate in teams working to analyze and assess existing capabilities and identify exposed gaps. Work with staff to devise and develop algorithms, methods, and new solutions for improving defensive capabilities. Work alongside engineers and scientists who are very enthusiastic about innovation and are driven to make a real difference in defending our nation. Actively engage the broader community by publishing papers and presenting research outcomes in community working groups, sponsor meetings, proposal writing, and conferences. Join an environment that promotes professional growth, a balanced life, and encourages technical development. Have opportunities to participate in fun, social activities like our weekly game nights and yearly summer cookout!

Requirements

Have a PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical area.
Have foundational experience in math, physics, quantum programming, and quantum hardware.
Have programming skills in Python, C++, and Rust.
Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently and on a team.
Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

Nice To Haves

Have research experience in quantum or a field related to quantum computing.
Have foundational expertise in linear algebra, probability and statistics, quantum mechanics, quantum information theory, quantum algorithms, quantum error correction and fault tolerance, cryptography, control theory, quantum qubits and hardware.
Have experience working with high performance computing (HPC) clusters.
Have programming and software skills in Qiskit, Cirq, Pennylane, Q#, Braket, and Rust.
Have hands on experience with a physical quantum computer.
Hold an active DoD Top Secret Clearance.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with computer scientists, mathematicians, and physicists on exciting research projects involving quantum computing.
Participate in teams working to analyze and assess existing capabilities and identify exposed gaps.
Work with staff to devise and develop algorithms, methods, and new solutions for improving defensive capabilities.
Work alongside engineers and scientists who are very enthusiastic about innovation and are driven to make a real difference in defending our nation.
Actively engage the broader community by publishing papers and presenting research outcomes in community working groups, sponsor meetings, proposal writing, and conferences.
Join an environment that promotes professional growth, a balanced life, and encourages technical development.
Have opportunities to participate in fun, social activities like our weekly game nights and yearly summer cookout!

Benefits

We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance.
APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development.

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