Senior Quantum Scientist

Quantum is now, and it's built here.

Oxford Ionics, now part of IonQ, is pioneering the next generation of quantum computing. Using our world-leading trapped-ion technology, we’re building the most powerful, accurate and reliable quantum systems to tackle problems that today’s supercomputers cannot solve.

Joining Oxford Ionics means becoming part of a global IonQ team that is transforming the future of quantum technology - faster, at scale, and with real world impact.

What to expect:

As a Senior Quantum Scientist, you will be at the forefront of our research and development, taking a leading role in both experimental design and the architecture of future generations of hardware. You will be responsible for driving innovation in coherent control, calibration, and benchmarking at scale, with a particular focus on enabling ultra-low error rates and system reliability across larger trapped-ion devices. Beyond hands-on experiments, you will help shape technical direction, mentor junior scientists, and ensure our work translates into scalable, fault-tolerant systems.

What you’ll be responsible for: 

• Leading the prototyping and characterisation of advanced coherent control schemes for trapped-ion qubits using laser and microwave fields.
• Driving system-level benchmarking and optimisation, ensuring near-term devices achieve world-leading performance and stability.
• Validating and integrating new trap technologies (e.g. on-chip electronics or photonics) to support scaling towards error-corrected architectures.
• Guiding junior scientists in experimental design, analysis, and presentation of results, while representing Oxford Ionics at external collaborations and conferences.

You will need a PhD in physics or a closely related discipline, with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit-related physics and typically four or more years of post PhD experience in quantum control, either in academia or industry. Alongside deep technical expertise, you should be able to work independently, lead projects, and collaborate effectively within a small, fast-paced team.

You will need:

• Proven expertise in experimental ion-trapping physics, ideally with a focus on quantum information processing and strong programming skills.
• Hands-on experience in spectroscopy, calibration, benchmarking of qubit systems, and debugging complex experimental setups.
• Strong proficiency with control software, hardware integration and data analysis.
• A track record of effective collaboration across teams and clear communication of complex scientific results through publications, talks, or conferences.

Be part of a team that’s shaping the future of quantum. We offer more than just a role, you’ll join a world class community of scientists, engineers and innovators working to unlock the full potential of quantum computing.

We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career alongside industry leaders, a competitive salary with IonQ stock options, an annual performance bonus, generous annual leave, flexible hybrid working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, and much more.

Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Salary Range

$145,000-$175,000 DOE

Oxford Ionics is committed to equal opportunity for all.