Staff Scientist, Quantum Applications

IonQ

18h•$160,000 - $200,000•Remote

About The Position

IonQ is seeking a Staff Scientist in Quantum Applications to join a cross-functional team developing quantum solutions on trapped-ion quantum computers. The role focuses on translating quantum computing advances into scientific and commercial impact by creating end-to-end applications, collaborating with customers and community partners, and supporting a new initiative with the University of Chicago. The position is remote in the United States and involves approximately 10% domestic and international travel for customer engagements and technical conference participation.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a similar STEM field.
At least 6 years of professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Demonstrated expertise in Python and/or C++, and experience with Qiskit or similar quantum SDKs.
Hands-on expertise developing or optimizing quantum algorithms in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning.
Track record of delivering innovative quantum solutions, demonstrated through peer-reviewed manuscripts, invited talks, open-source repositories, licenses, publications, and/or patents.
Strong foundation in key quantum computing concepts and ability to communicate technical ideas to scientists, engineers, business leaders, and community stakeholders.
Experience collaborating on teams that identify, define, and solve real-world problems, with strong collaboration skills and clear technical communication.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics, or a closely related field.
Experience contributing to customer-facing or partner-facing technical engagements from problem definition through solution delivery.
Experience with variational quantum algorithms and hybrid quantum-classical workloads spanning CPUs, GPUs, and QPUs.
Experience developing hybrid quantum algorithms for NISQ-era systems and early fault-tolerant quantum computers.
Experience with quantum algorithm resource estimation, performance benchmarking, and scaling analysis.
Proven success working with customers to define and deliver solutions.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and optimize novel quantum algorithms, applications, and end-to-end workflows for scientific and commercial impact, including in computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning.
Work with customers and partners to define and solve real-world problems using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers.
Discover innovative solutions, rigorously benchmark performance, and publish findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
Help shape team culture and support an initiative intended to deliver new scientific discoveries and innovation.