Contract Quantum Software Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Phasecraft is the quantum algorithms company. We are building the mathematical foundations for quantum computing applications that solve real-world problems. Founded in 2019 by Toby Cubitt, Ashley Montanaro, and John Morton, we are based in London and Bristol in the UK and opened an office in Washington DC in 2024, led by Steve Flammia. In 2023, we completed a 13m Series A funding round led by leading Silicon Valley deep tech VC, Playground Global.

Phasecraft's unprecedented access to today's best quantum computers - through partnerships with Google, IBM, Quantinuum and QuEra - provides us with unique opportunities to develop foundational IP, inform the development of next-generation quantum hardware, and accelerate the commercialisation of high-value breakthroughs.

We are looking to hire a Quantum Algorithms Scientist to join our team, in a role focusing on implementing and executing experiments on cutting-edge quantum computing hardware. The ideal candidate will have experience in implementing quantum algorithms on real quantum hardware, in addition to expertise in the theory of quantum algorithms for gate-model quantum computers or related topics in quantum computing theory, quantum information theory, or related areas of quantum theory. Their work will contribute to Phasecraft's goal of developing quantum algorithms for near-term quantum computers and may encompass topics such as algorithm optimization and design, quantum error-correction, resource analysis, error mitigation, and hardware benchmarking. The role will involve both theoretical research and practical implementation, leveraging access to quantum hardware platforms.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge quantum research while applying quantum algorithms on real devices, helping to push the boundaries of what is possible with near-term quantum computing.

Job Description

• Develop and implement quantum algorithms on state-of-the-art quantum hardware platforms, optimizing performance and resource usage.
• Undertake both theoretical and applied research on near-term quantum computing algorithms, applications, and enabling technologies.
• Contribute to research on error mitigation, circuit optimization, and benchmarking techniques for quantum hardware.
• Help to author publications, presentations, patent applications, and similar research outputs.
• Work collaboratively in a small international team made up of full-time staff and affiliated PhD students.
• Contribute to the broader growth and success of Phasecraft through research, development, and technical leadership.

Requirements

Essential Criteria

• Expertise in quantum algorithms and quantum information theory with a strong foundation in quantum computing.
• PhD (or soon to receive one) in quantum information, quantum computation, computer science, physics, or a closely related field.
• Extensive experience in implementing quantum algorithms on quantum hardware, or clear evidence of ability in this area.
• Strong understanding of quantum circuit design, compilation, and optimization techniques.
• Ability to work independently on research projects while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Strong publication track record in relevant disciplines.
• Proficiency in quantum programming languages such as Qiskit, Cirq, PennyLane, or similar.
• Flexibility to work across different aspects of quantum software, algorithms, and underpinning theory.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in developing and benchmarking error mitigation techniques for quantum algorithms.
• Knowledge of classical simulation methods for quantum circuits and hybrid quantum-classical approaches.
• Strong software development skills, including experience with Python, C++, or other programming languages used in quantum computing.
• Experience working with industrial quantum hardware providers or in industry-academic collaborations.
• Enthusiasm for learning, research, and translating theoretical quantum computing advances into practical applications.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex concepts to diverse audiences.

Benefits

• The annual compensation range for this role is $120,000 - $175,000, depending on experience.
• Health, Vision, Dental, Life Insurance.
• 401(k) Plan with company matching.
• Unlimited annual leave.