ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Quantum Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Umd

ARLIS Quantum Research Professional

College Park, MD · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Conducting applied research in quantum information science and key supporting technologies ... Full Research Scientist (Senior Level) Minimum Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field plus 5 years ...

IonQ

Senior Quantum Scientist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$126K - $181K/yr

... science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. In 2025, the company achieved ... Our research and development efforts build on our fully integrated quantum processors that can be ...

Microsoft Corporation

Senior Quantum Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

... science, medicine, materials research, and industry. Microsoft Quantum team is dedicated to ... As a Senior Quantum Engineer you will design and test the readout system for topological qubits at ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScience JobsResearch JobsResearch Scientist JobsSenior Quantum Research Scientist Jobs

Senior Quantum Research Scientist information

See salary details

$57K

$112.3K

$149.5K

How much do senior quantum research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior quantum research scientist in the United States is $112,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $125,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior quantum research scientist?

Senior Quantum Research Scientists are experts who lead advanced research projects in quantum science and technology. They work on developing new quantum algorithms, quantum hardware, or applications in areas like computing, cryptography, and material science. These scientists often design and conduct experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and mentor junior researchers. Their work is crucial for pushing the boundaries of what is possible with quantum systems and often involves collaboration between academia, industry, and government labs.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a senior quantum research scientist?

To thrive as a Senior Quantum Research Scientist, you need an advanced degree (Ph.D.) in physics, quantum computing, or a related field, along with deep expertise in quantum mechanics and mathematical modeling. Proficiency with quantum programming languages (like Qiskit or Cirq), simulation software, and familiarity with quantum hardware platforms are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and collaboration skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are essential for advancing complex research projects, driving innovation, and translating theoretical concepts into practical quantum technologies.

What are typical challenges faced by senior quantum research scientists when leading multidisciplinary research projects?

Senior Quantum Research Scientists often encounter challenges in bridging knowledge gaps between team members from diverse backgrounds, such as physics, computer science, and engineering. Balancing theoretical research with practical application development, while coordinating priorities and timelines, can require strong project management and communication skills. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving quantum technologies and ensuring that the team’s work aligns with broader organizational goals are ongoing aspects of the role. Successfully navigating these challenges is key to advancing impactful quantum research.

What is the difference between Senior Quantum Research Scientist vs Quantum Software Engineer?

AspectSenior Quantum Research ScientistQuantum Software Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Physics, Quantum Computing, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Physics, or related field; coding skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, corporate R&DSoftware development teams, tech companies, startups
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, tech companiesTech firms, startups, industry-focused R&D
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, academic vs industry workSoftware development, coding skills, industry applications

While both roles involve quantum technologies, the Senior Quantum Research Scientist focuses on theoretical research and experimental development in labs, often requiring advanced degrees. In contrast, a Quantum Software Engineer primarily develops algorithms and software applications for quantum computers, emphasizing coding skills and software development experience.

More about Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs

What cities are hiring for Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Senior Quantum Research Scientist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Research Scientist jobs?

The most popular types of Quantum Research Scientist jobs are:

What states have the most Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs are:

Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Quantum Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,254 per year, or $54 per hour.

Senior Quantum Physicist/Research Scientist

Ainabl

Boston, MA • On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Senior Quantum Physicist/Research Scientist

Applications are still being accepted. Apply now!

Job Type

Full-Time

Workspace

Hybrid

Job Description

As a Senior Quantum Physicist/Research Scientist, you’ll spearhead fundamental research to enhance the performance of our quantum hardware systems. You’ll collaborate with engineering and design to translate quantum principles into practical solutions, contributing to our groundbreaking approach to quantum computing. This position offers the chance to influence the next generation of quantum technology, with potential applications in scientific research and emerging industries like aerospace and defense.

Responsibilities

Lead research on quantum phenomena, focusing on scalability and reliability improvements.

Develop theoretical models and experimental frameworks to optimize quantum system performance.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams (research, architecture, systems, design, product engineering, validation, and implementation) to integrate research findings into hardware prototypes and patentable innovations.

Publish findings in top-tier journals and contribute to IP strategies.

Foster a culture of innovation and scientific discovery.

Requirements

Qualifications

PhD in Physics, Quantum Science, or a related field.

7+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience in quantum optics, photonics, trapped‑ion systems, or quantum computing.

Proven track record of research leadership, with a strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.

Deep understanding of quantum mechanics and its applications to hardware development.

Experience with interdisciplinary teams and translating research into practical technologies.

Excellent analytical skills and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

Preferred Skills

Expertise in photonic or trapped‑ion quantum technologies.

Knowledge of aerospace applications or quantum simulations for scientific discovery.

Experience with patent development or intellectual property processes, particularly for licensing initiatives.

Why Join Ainabl?

Be part of a mission‑driven team redefining scientific frontiers with quantum technology.

Work on groundbreaking quantum hardware projects with global impact, targeting scalability goals by 2028.

Competitive salary, equity options, and benefits package.

Collaborate with world‑class experts in a supportive, innovative culture.

Opportunities to shape the future of quantum computing and contribute to licensing initiatives.

Recruitment Process

Application Review: Applications received by September 5, 2025, will be reviewed starting September 10, 2025. Candidates will be notified within 5 business days if shortlisted.

Initial Interview: Shortlisted candidates will participate in a 30‑minute virtual interview with the hiring manager, scheduled within 10 business days of notification, to discuss experience and fit.

Technical Assessment: Selected candidates will complete a take‑home research proposal (estimated 4-6 hours) within 7 business days, focusing on quantum system optimization.

Final Interview: Top candidates will attend a 1‑hour panel interview with the engineering team, scheduled within 5 business days of assessment submission, to evaluate scientific expertise and cultural alignment.

Offer: Successful candidates can expect a verbal offer within 3 business days of the final interview, followed by a written offer and contract negotiation.

Timeline: The process aims to conclude by September 26, 2025, with flexibility based on candidate availability.

Note: All communications will be conducted via email careers@ainabl.com. Please ensure your contact details are current.

About the Company

At Ainabl, we forge quantum‑secure hardware that delivers unbreakable communications for defense at the edge. We are the only team shipping airborne‑qualified, fault‑tolerant quantum networking systems today. If you have built and shipped mission‑critical quantum hardware under DARPA, ONR, or DGA scrutiny and are ready to own the technical destiny of the defining quantum defense & systems company of the decade, this is your opportunity.

Additional Information

This role may involve access to ITAR‑controlled information, requiring U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency; all applicants must be eligible to work with such data under U.S. export control regulations.

Ainabl is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply