Silicon Quantum Computing Research Scientist

This role focuses on tailoring high-level quantum algorithms to run on our hardware. Successful candidates will be familiar with the established toolset of quantum algorithms and understand the compilation tools required to map circuits to a target gate set.

With consideration of various quantum error correction schemes and the specifics of our hardware, you will research and develop processes to run circuits on target architectures while monitoring the resources consumed.

Candidates should have experience working with the surface code and the use of factories to produce resource states. This role does not require prior understanding of our hardware platform, with knowledge expected to develop on the job while working with other researchers in the team.

This role provides a critical interface between applications and hardware development at Quantum Motion, allowing us to identify algorithms that are compatible with future iterations of our hardware. In addition to an established research background, we are looking for candidates with strong communication skills who can discuss with both applications and error correction / architecture researchers to understand capabilities.

This role involves working with in-house software engineers to automate the algorithms compilation process, primarily through the Python-based ecosystem of quantum software libraries.

This is therefore a rare and exciting opportunity to be part of a creative world-leading team shaping the future of quantum computing. Being a small team and having a flat structure, this is a great opportunity to contribute to new developments within the field. There are multiple opportunities for professional growth and to make impacts within the company.

We bring together the brightest quantum engineers, integrated circuit (IC) engineers, quantum computing theoreticians and software engineers to create a unique, world-leading team, working together closely to maximise our combined expertise. Our collaborative and interdisciplinary culture is an ideal fit for anyone who thrives in a cutting-edge research and development environment focused on tackling big challenges and contributing to the development of scalable quantum computers based on silicon technology.

Our team is based in London and Oxford, with international offices in Australia (Sydney) and Spain (SanSebastián).

• Develop processes to map high-level quantum algorithms to a hardware-compatible instruction set to realise fault-tolerant computation.
• Understand the tradeoffs between various quantum error correction tools and identify the best choice.
• Be familiar with architecture-level requirements and capabilities and factor them into the algorithm-to-hardware breakdown.
• Carefully account for the resources required to run a target algorithm, including the number of qubits and the runtime.
• Work with other researchers at the company to identify new directions and communicate constraints of existing approaches.
• Work with software engineers at the company to automate parts of the process.
• Present research results at internal and external meetings and events.

• Top-tier education and PhD in physics, maths, computer science, or a related discipline.
• Track record of research into quantum computing, including work on applications and algorithms, architectures, or quantum error correction.
• Knowledge of commonly-used algorithmic techniques, such as quantum phase estimation, block encodings, amplitude amplification, etc.
• Familiarity with common error correction techniques, including surface codes and magic state distillation.
• Experience with writing up results in reports or scientific journals.
• Ability to clearly present scientific work to both technical and non-technical audiences, and an enthusiasm to travel for conferences and other events.
• Familiarity with using Python for research and development.
• Strong collaborative mindset with good communication and interpersonal skills.
• An inquisitive nature and logical approach to problem solving. A passion for tackling big challenges and, in particular, for developing quantum computers.

• Competitive salary and share options scheme.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Private Medical Insurance.
• Life Assurance.
• Cycle-to-work Scheme.
• Flexible working.
• Central London location.