Staff Scientist - Quantum Characterization & Benchmarking

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Staff Scientist – Quantum Characterization & Benchmarking based in the United States.

The Staff Scientist will serve as the technical lead for quantum characterization, verification, and validation (QCVV), shaping how advanced quantum processors are measured, evaluated, and optimized. This research-focused role will drive the development of innovative, scalable benchmarking protocols for increasingly complex multi-qubit systems. You will translate experimental measurements and theoretical insights into actionable error models that guide quantum error correction (QEC) architecture and decoder design. Working closely with experimental, QEC, and compiler teams, you will help turn foundational research into measurable improvements in quantum system performance. The position also offers opportunities to publish influential research, represent the organization at leading conferences, and mentor emerging scientific talent.

Accountabilities

• Lead the research and development of novel, scalable QCVV protocols for multi-qubit quantum processors.

• Define the research direction for quantum processor characterization and benchmarking, connecting measurement outcomes to practical error models.

• Design benchmarking methods that identify and measure specific noise types, informed by component-level characterization and first-principles approaches.

• Develop theoretical frameworks that translate characterization data into actionable error models, including detector error models.

• Collaborate with quantum error correction and compiler teams to inform error-correction code selection and decoder design.

• Work closely with experimental teams to translate theoretical findings into measurable system improvements.

• Publish research findings in leading scientific journals and conferences.

• Represent the research team at industry and academic conferences.

• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the team's broader technical strategy.

Requirements:

• PhD in Physics, Quantum Information, Mathematics, or a closely related field.

• At least 7 years of research experience in quantum characterization, benchmarking, or a closely related discipline.

• Strong publication record in quantum information science.

• Deep expertise in quantum benchmarking protocols, including randomized benchmarking, gate set tomography, and character benchmarking.

• Strong knowledge of representation theory and its applications to QCVV.

• Experience developing or applying scalable benchmarking methods for many-qubit quantum systems.

• Ability to write, read, debug, and develop scientific simulations and research prototypes.

• Experience with trapped-ion or neutral-atom quantum systems is highly desirable.

• Familiarity with quantum error correction codes and decoder design.

• Strong scientific leadership, research direction-setting, and problem-solving capabilities.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work across theoretical and experimental research teams.

• Demonstrated ability to mentor researchers and communicate complex scientific results through publications and presentations.

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary, bonus potential, and equity as part of the total compensation package.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Matching 401(k) retirement plan.

• Unlimited paid time off and paid holidays.

• Parental and adoption leave.

• Legal insurance.

• Home technology stipend.

• Compensation determined by factors including education, qualifications, experience, work location, market data, and internal equity.

• Work location options include Bothell, Washington; Boulder, Colorado; College Park, Maryland; and remote within the United States.