Intern 2026 : Quantum Primitives Software Developer

Introduction

IBM Research takes responsibility for technology and its role in society. Working in IBM Research means you'll join a team who invent what's next in computing, always choosing the big, urgent and mind-bending work that endures and shapes generations. Our passion for discovery, and excitement for defining the future of tech, is what builds our strong culture around solving problems for clients and seeing the real world impact that you can make.

IBM's product and technology landscape includes Research, Software, and Infrastructure. Entering this domain positions you at the heart of IBM, where growth and innovation thrive.

Your role and responsibilities

We are looking for a Software Engineer intern to join our team. In this role, you will be part of our mission to implement the latest capabilities in Quantum Computing leveraging the low-latency / high-bandwith characteristics of our near-time execution environment.

You will be responsible for designing and implementing enhancements to software components that are part of our production stack, collaborating with the team to deliver new features. We are looking a pro-active problem solver who enjoys technical and domain challenges, with an interest in producing robust software solutions that can place the latest research in the hands of users, and is eager to learn and grow.

You will be working alongside the members of our team, receiving mentorship and guidance from experienced software developers and researchers who will support you every step of the way. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn directly from professionals in the field, while making a tangible impact on the field of Quantum Computing.

Required technical and professional expertise

Software development : proficiency with Python and object-oriented programming

Version control : experience with Git or a similar version control system

Quantum Computing : experience running jobs in Quantum Hardware

Problem-solving : the ability to solve problems independently, Independent problem-solving skills

Quantum Information : familiarity with basic Quantum Information concepts (circuits, states, gates)

Preferred technical and professional experience

Quantum Information : Familiarity with modern Quantum Error mitigation methods

Quantum Software : Experience using Qiskit

Software development : familiarity with multiple programming languages (Rust), experience with API interaction (REST / RPC)

IBM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.