Senior Scientist, Quantum Applications - Chicago jobs in United States
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IonQ · 4 hours ago

Senior Scientist, Quantum Applications - Chicago

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. They are seeking a Senior Scientist in Quantum Applications to deliver quantum solutions on trapped-ion quantum computers, working with collaborators and customers to drive scientific advancement and commercial value.

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Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and optimize novel quantum algorithms, applications, and end-to-end workflows that will make scientific and commercial impact in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning
Work with customers and partners across Chicago and the Midwest to define and solve problems of real-world interest using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers
Discover innovative solutions, rigorously benchmark their performance, and publish results in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and conferences
As a founding member of the new IonQ site located in Chicago, help shape the team culture and create a lasting impact on the local quantum ecosystem

Qualification

PythonC++Quantum algorithmsQiskitComputational chemistryOptimizationMachine learningHybrid quantum algorithmsPerformance benchmarkingCollaboration skillsTechnical communication

Required

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 the ability to articulate deeply technical ideas to diverse audiences, ranging from scientists and engineers to business leaders and community stakeholders
Experience being part of a team that finds, defines, and solves problems of real-world interest, with strong collaboration skills and clear technical communication
This position can work onsite or hybrid from one of our offices (College Park, MD, Bothell, WA) or fully remote in the US
10% domestic and international travel supporting customer engagements and technical conference participation
Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying 'U.S. Person' status for export controls and government contracts work, obtaining any necessary license, and/or confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls

Preferred

Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics, or a closely related field
Demonstrated 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 as well as early fault-tolerant quantum computers
Demonstrated experience with quantum algorithm resource estimation, performance benchmarking, and scaling analysis
Proven success working with customers to define and deliver solutions

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
Matching 401K
Unlimited PTO and paid holidays
Parental/adoption leave
Legal insurance
A home internet stipend
Pet insurance

Company

IonQ

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IONQ offers enterprise-grade quantum systems designed for businesses seeking to harness the power of quantum computing in their operations.

Funding

Current Stage
Public Company
Total Funding
$3.8B
Key Investors
Heights Capital ManagementSamsung Catalyst FundCambium Capital Partners
2025-10-10Post Ipo Equity· $2B
2025-07-07Post Ipo Equity· $1B
2025-03-10Post Ipo Equity· $372.6M

Leadership Team

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Marco Pistoia
CEO, IonQ Italia
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Niccolo de Masi
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
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Company data provided by crunchbase