Lead Research Scientist, Silicon Qubits

Job Description

Job Description

About the team

The Quantum Computing Research team is dedicated to developing innovative methods to get the best possible performance from contemporary and next generation quantum computers. We push toward quantum advantage by developing cutting-edge applications, employing AI, control theory, and physics principles to optimize and automate critical parts of the quantum computing stack. We conduct pioneering research looking toward the near future, including quantum error correction and the integration of quantum computers with high performance computing and data centers.

About the role

In this role, you will lead a team of quantum scientists to develop software solutions for calibration and optimization of quantum dot devices. You will focus on building robust routines for coarse tuning, calibrating high-fidelity single and two-qubit gates, optimizing the full processor at scale, and maintaining peak performance in real time. You will collaborate regularly with other cross-functional teams such as research, product and engineering, to apply your insights to a variety of quantum computing challenges and turn your ideas into usable software tools. This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of quantum computing, driving innovation, and delivering impactful solutions.

What you'll be doing :

• Working with the team and the department head on establishing strategic research roadmap and OKRs.
• Perform cryogenic measurements and characterization of quantum dot-based qubits.
• Invent, implement and test novel control protocols for all the required bring-up steps starting from coarse tuning to optimizing two-qubit gates.
• Oversee development of scalable protocols for processor-wide optimization (e.g. cross-talk mitigation, leakage reduction, defects mitigation), and real-time retuning.
• Collaborating with the product manager and engineering team manager to ensure timely deliverables for the Boulder Opal product.
• Explain, document and present research solutions in accessible language.

Ideally you'll have :

Salary

The base salary for this position is targeted between $190K - $237K and will ultimately be determined by specific job-related skills, experience, level, location and other contributing factors. Depending on the position offered, this role may be eligible for annual discretionary bonuses, equity and other forms of compensation outside of the targeted range. For more information on benefits at Q-CTRL, please visit our careers page at https : / / q-ctrl.com / careers.

Should you have any questions related to the compensation package, please speak directly with the Talent Acquisition representative.

About Q-CTRL

Q-CTRL is the global leader in AI-powered quantum control infrastructure software. We build the tools that make quantum technology useful, solving the hardest challenges in quantum computing and quantum sensing to deliver real-world impact.

Founded in 2017, we operate globally with offices in Sydney, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Berlin, and Oxford. Our teams bring together technical and multi-disciplinary expertise across the product lifecycle, and we’re hiring talent to help scale every part of the business. We work quickly to turn cutting-edge science into deployable technology.

In 2024 we raised US$113 million in Series B funding, the largest aggregate investment for a quantum software company. Six months later we delivered the first commercial quantum advantage with Ironstone Opal, our field-validated quantum navigation solution for defense and industry.

At Q-CTRL, we prioritize outcomes over hours. We offer flexibility, equity potential, and competitive benefits that reflect our high-performance culture. If you’re ready to help shape the future of quantum, we’d love to hear from you!

Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Please be advised that our communications will only come from the @q-ctrl.com domain. All our active job postings are available on our company website.

To recruitment agencies, we do not accept unsolicited branded profiles and are not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.