Research Scientist - Quantum

TAP Engineering • College Park, MD

2d • $80,000 - $230,000

About The Position

TAP Engineering is seeking a Research Scientist to support leading-edge research and engineering in the physical sciences, including quantum computing, advanced computing systems, additive manufacturing, photonics, advanced materials, and microelectronics. The position supports applied research in strategic National Priority topics within Solid State & Quantum Information Science (SSQIS), with a focus on superconducting qubits. Relevant expertise may include theoretical, experimental, or modeling and simulation work, as well as qubit design and optimization, fabrication, control and readout, gates, performance benchmarking, and related technologies. The role also requires reviewing and analyzing research and reports concerning quantum computing and qubit technologies.

The successful candidate will identify and articulate new research opportunities and novel approaches. In a dynamic environment, the researcher will lead technical efforts, provide guidance, support their transition for future development, and monitor ongoing progress. The role calls for a technical leader who is not a supervisor and who communicates concepts clearly and professionally. Research scientists may be placed at one of three levels according to education and experience.

Requirements

• Experience in at least one relevant area: theoretical, experimental, or modeling and simulation of superconducting qubits; qubit design and optimization; qubit fabrication; qubit control and readout; qubit gates; performance benchmarking; or analysis of error sources.
• Ability to accurately convey technical and scientific issues to people with varying levels of expertise.
• Ability to write concisely and communicate persuasively in speech and writing.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to understand and determine current limitations and future improvements in relevant quantum research areas.
• Experience in quantum information research, particularly quantum computing research.
• Postdoctoral experience or equivalent.
• Expertise in quantum information theory.
• Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance with appropriate polygraph.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support and expertise in SSQIS.
• Integrate technical inputs from performers and analyze technical deliverables and reports.
• Assist the government’s technical element in managing the SSQIS research portfolio.
• Prepare technical writing and presentation materials.
• Independently review and summarize technical literature and emerging technologies, and participate in technical exchanges and workshops related to program areas.
• Develop and document testing methodologies and protocols aligned with program technology components.
• Coordinate, align, and schedule technology development tasks, and continuously compare technical progress with planned cost and schedule.
• Perform and track technical and programmatic risk analysis and reviews.

Benefits

• 15–25 days of paid time off annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays.
• Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through matching and profit sharing.
• Free medical insurance for employees, with optional dependent buy-up plans.
• Employer-paid dental and vision plans, with optional enhancements.
• Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Tuition reimbursement up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework.
• Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support.
• Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses.

What This Job Offers

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