Quantum Computing Research Jobs in Massachusetts

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Staff Research Scientists at IBM Quantum operate at the frontier of quantum computing, advancing the field through fundamental research that shapes the future of the technology. Join a team of theorists and scientists charting the path toward scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computation. In this role, you will dedicate yourself to theoretical investigation, contributing original ideas that expand what is possible with quantum computers.

Your role and responsibilities

As a Staff Quantum Algorithm Theorist, you will pursue fundamental research aimed at discovering and developing new quantum algorithms across a range of useful application areas. Specifically, you will:

• Lead projects on the design of novel and efficient quantum algorithms for practically useful problems, with a focus on implementations suited to fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Rigorously characterize quantum speed-ups using tools from computational complexity theory and through careful comparison with state-of-the-art classical methods.
• Collaborate with our compiler, error-correction, and hardware research teams to refine and optimize algorithms for early fault-tolerant quantum architectures.
• Disseminate your findings through publications in leading peer-reviewed journals and presentations at premier scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the broader research community by engaging with academic collaborators and helping to shape the intellectual direction of quantum algorithms research.

Required education

Doctorate Degree

Preferred education

Doctorate Degree

Required technical and professional expertise

• Demonstrated research experience in the design and analysis of quantum algorithms.
• A track record of independent theoretical research, evidenced by original contributions to the field.
• Solid foundation in quantum information theory, computational complexity, and linear algebra.
• Proficiency in at least one general-purpose programming language.

Preferred technical and professional experience

• Experience mentoring students and postdocs.
• Experience leading projects with junior team members.
• Strong publication record in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and top-tier conference proceedings.
• Experience serving on technical program committees or as a reviewer for reputable conferences and journals in quantum computing or theoretical computer science.
• Postdoctoral research experience or completion of a graduate program with substantial focus on quantum algorithms, quantum complexity theory, or related areas.

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This position was posted on the date cited in the key job details section and is anticipated to remain posted for 21 days from this date or less if not needed to fill the role.

The compensation range and benefits for this position are based on a full-time schedule for a full calendar year. The salary will vary depending on your job-related skills, experience and location. Pay increment and frequency of pay will be in accordance with employment classification and applicable laws. For part time roles, your compensation and benefits will be adjusted to reflect your hours. Benefits may be pro-rated for those who start working during the calendar year.

Job Title

Staff Quantum Algorithm Theorist

Date posted

09-Jul-2026

Job ID

117810

City / Township / Village

Cambridge

State / Province

Massachusetts

Country

United States

Work arrangement

Onsite

Area of work

Research

Employment type

Regular

Contract type

Regular

Projected Minimum Salary per year

190,000.00

Projected Maximum Salary per year

290,000.00

Position type

Professional

Some travel may be required based on business demand

Company

(0147) International Business Machines Corporation

Shift

General (daytime)

Is this role a commissionable/sales incentive based position?