Job details

Staff Scientist - Quantum Chemistry

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution.

We’re looking for a Staff Scientist - Quantum Chemistry who will be part of a cross-functional team at IonQ whose mission is to deliver the world’s best quantum solutions, on the world’s best quantum computers, to solve the world’s most complex and impactful problems. You will be part of the Quantum Applications team and develop bio/chem/pharma applications that will make a real world difference for customers around the globe.

Responsibilities:

Develop impactful quantum chemistry algorithms and applications that promise commercial advantages in practice and at scale.
Collaborate with compiler, cloud and system/hardware teams to develop highly optimized hybrid quantum workflows.
Contribute knowledge of computational chemistry domain (classical and quantum) to evaluate and communicate pros and cons, current state-of-the-art, scaling behavior, trade offs, cross-over points, etc.
Work directly with global clients to define and solve problems of real-world interest using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers.
Build reusable software platforms to grow IonQ’s user base.

You’d be a good fit with:

Doctorate degree in Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics or other STEM domain, or equivalent work experience.
Hands-on expertise as a computational chemist including peer-reviewed manuscripts and contributions to code bases e.g. AFQMC, DFT, MD, coupled-cluster, etc.
Expertise in key mathematical techniques used in quantum computing - linear algebra, matrix decompositions, probability theory, symmetry, computational complexity.
Desire to work closely with global collaborators including aligning with time zones and work schedules. Potential for international travel and/or onsite co-location.

You’d be a great fit with:

Hands-on expertise in Python and Qiskit; working knowledge of C++.
Success working directly with customers and collaborators to define and deliver new programs; global experience a plus.
Industrial R&D experience in chem/bio/pharma.
Experience developing quantum chemistry algorithms for NISQ era quantum computers, including hybrid solutions e.g. classical pre/post processing (CPU) and variational (GPU + QPU) energy minimization.

Location: This position can work onsite or hybrid from one of our offices (College Park, MD, Bothell, WA) or fully remote in the US or Switzerland (for eligible European candidates). 

The approximate base salary range for this position is $141,670 - $185,482.

Compensation will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Beyond base salary, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component and a range of benefit options found on our career site at ionq.co/jobs. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment. Our US benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance!

IonQ's HQ is located in College Park, Maryland, a quick 15-minute metro from Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in Bothell, WA (near Seattle). Depending on the position, you may be required to be near one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, or Toronto. However, IonQ will expand into additional domestic and international geographies, so don’t let this stop you from applying!

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices and viewpoints and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

The position you are applying for may require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying U.S.-person status for export controls and government contracts work and/or obtaining any necessary license/confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law.

If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!

Average salary estimate

$163576 / YEARLY (est.)

min

max

$141670K

$185482K

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