Senior Research Scientist

Quandela

Senior Research Scientist developing quantum solutions at Quandela. Driving scientific excellence and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams in the U.S.

Posted 6/8/2026full-timeWashington • District of Columbia, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesSeniorWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Conduct high-level research in quantum computing, quantum photonics, quantum information science, or related areas.
Develop novel scientific concepts, models, methods, and experimental or computational approaches aligned with Quandela’s technology strategy.
Contribute to the design, analysis, and validation of quantum computing architectures, photonic quantum systems, components, algorithms, or enabling technologies.
Translate scientific advances into tangible research outputs, including prototypes, demonstrators, technical reports, publications, patents, and internal know-how.
Stay at the forefront of advances in quantum computing, integrated photonics, quantum hardware, and hardware/software architectures.
Identify emerging scientific opportunities and contribute insights to guide long-term research directions.
Provide scientific leadership within multidisciplinary R&D projects involving quantum physics, photonics, electronics, algorithms, and software engineering.
Define and refine research objectives, technical milestones, and scientific work plans in collaboration with research leads, engineers, and program stakeholders.
Support the transition from research concepts to proof-of-concept demonstrations, prototypes, and validation milestones.
Contribute to technical roadmap development and ensure research activities remain aligned with company objectives and project deliverables.
Review scientific results, challenge assumptions, and ensure rigorous research methodology and high-quality technical execution.
Work closely with internal R&D teams to support project execution and milestone-driven progress.
Contribute scientific content to research proposals, technical reports, program reviews, and stakeholder presentations.
Support interactions with funding institutions, government agencies, universities, national laboratories, and industrial partners.
Participate in collaborative research programs and help coordinate scientific contributions across internal and external teams.
Represent Quandela at conferences, workshops, consortium meetings, and scientific events.
Mentor junior scientists, postdoctoral researchers, engineers, and interns.
Contribute to building a culture of scientific excellence, rigor, creativity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Share expertise through internal seminars, technical reviews, documentation, and scientific discussions.
Help establish research best practices, technical standards, and collaborative working methods within a growing U.S. R&D environment.

Requirements

What you’ll need

PhD in physics, quantum information science, quantum technologies, photonics, electrical engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or a related field.
Typically 7–10+ years of relevant research experience in quantum computing, quantum optics, photonics, or advanced quantum technologies.
Strong publication record and demonstrated ability to produce high-quality scientific results.
Deep understanding of at least one of the following areas:
- Quantum information science
- Photonic quantum computing
- Integrated photonics
- Quantum optics
- Quantum algorithms
- Quantum hardware architectures
- Quantum error correction or fault-tolerant computing
Experience contributing to complex, multidisciplinary R&D projects.
Ability to connect scientific vision with practical technical execution.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Ability to work effectively with scientists, engineers, project managers, executives, and external partners.
Experience with government-funded research projects, technical reporting, or defense-related R&D programs is an asset.
Familiarity with intellectual property generation, patents, or technology transfer is desirable.
Eligibility Requirement: Applicants must be U.S. citizens to meet government program and security requirements.

Benefits

Comp & perks

The opportunity to lead strategic national programs at the forefront of quantum technologies
A collaborative, innovative environment bridging cutting-edge science and industrial applications,
Competitive compensation package, including relocation support if required.

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

quantum computingquantum photonicsquantum information sciencequantum algorithmsquantum hardware architecturesquantum error correctionphotonic quantum computingintegrated photonicsexperimental approachescomputational approaches

Soft Skills

scientific leadershipanalytical skillsproblem-solving skillscommunication skillscollaborationmentoringproject managementcreativitycross-disciplinary collaborationtechnical execution

Certifications

PhD in physicsPhD in quantum information sciencePhD in quantum technologiesPhD in photonicsPhD in electrical engineeringPhD in applied mathematicsPhD in computer science