QPU Build Co-Op – Optics & Data Analysis

QuEra Computing • Boston, MA

9d • Onsite

About The Position

In this co-op/internship, you’ll work at the intersection of optics, atomic physics, and data science. The QPU Build team designs and implements system-wide features of QuEra’s neutral-atom quantum computer architecture. You’ll work hands-on in the lab characterizing optical systems that trap and control atoms, and turn measurements into insights that drive improvements across the machine. You’ll also gain a holistic view of how a quantum computer is designed and built at QuEra Computing Inc.

This is an on-site co-op/internship. Relocation is not offered. An immediate start date is preferred. QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. The company does not discriminate in hiring or promotion based on characteristics protected by law.

Requirements

• Pursuing or recently completed a degree in physics, optics/photonics, engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on optics lab experience, such as alignment, beam characterization, and working with lasers and optical components.
• Strong Python programming skills for data analysis, including NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, and Matplotlib.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong evidence of independent work.
• A solid foundation in physics and mathematics; a deep background in quantum physics is not required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with holography, spatial light modulators, diffractive optics, and/or metasurfaces.
• Experience with CAD design in Autodesk Inventor and/or optical design in Zemax.
• Exposure to atomic physics or quantum computing experiments.

Responsibilities

• Design and run measurements to characterize optical components and systems used in neutral-atom quantum computing, including lasers, beam-shaping optics, and atom-trapping setups.
• Assist with building, aligning, and troubleshooting optical setups in the lab.
• Analyze measurement and experimental data using the Python scientific stack.
• Build tools and workflows that make results reproducible, and turn findings into clear, actionable feedback for the team.
• Work with physicists and engineers to integrate optical subsystems into the broader atomic physics pipeline.
• Help identify ways to improve system performance and reliability.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed