Quantum Scientist - Experimental

Cambridge, UK | Full-time or Part-time | Permanent | Hybrid 

Salary: £62,000 to £75,000, DOE  

We will also consider part-time applications for this role. Please indicate your preferred working schedule in your cover letter.  

About us 

Riverlane’s mission is to master quantum error correction (QEC) and unlock a new age of human progress. From advances in material and climate science, to complex chemistry simulation for new drug design, quantum computers will help humanity solve some of its most important challenges. But without QEC, the industry’s defining technical challenge, such breakthroughs can never be achieved.  Riverlane is the world leader in QEC technology. QEC is a complex problem that requires a range of skills, talent and passion.  

Having raised more than $125M in funding to date to accelerate our cutting-edge R&D in quantum error correction (QEC), Riverlane partners with many of the world’s leading quantum hardware providers and government agencies to make fault-tolerant quantum computing a reality. We’re making remarkable progress and growing fast.  

What you will do  

As a Quantum Scientist, you will work within Riverlane’s Research team, supporting our partners as they design, run and interpret quantum computing experiments, while also contributing to Riverlane’s internal research in QEC.

Working with a diverse set of partners, you will gain exposure to different qubit architectures and develop an understanding of their respective QEC considerations. Using your knowledge of quantum computing, you will help translate experimental goals into practical implementations, analyse results, and share insights that inform both customer success and ongoing product and research development.

Whilst this is a research-focused role, you will collaborate directly with customers to set up experiments, understand technical challenges, and support progress, as well as work closely with internal teams to resolve issues and advance projects. You will also represent Riverlane externally through conference attendance, presentations, and technical discussions.

Strong communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and an interest in applying research in real-world settings are essential for success in this role.

In this role, you will:

• Work with partners across the UK and Europe to design and execute quantum computing experiments, using Riverlane’s software and tools
• Support the deployment of quantum applications and QEC-related solutions into partner environments
• Investigate experimental results, diagnose issues, and work with internal research and product teams to resolve them
• Contribute to internal research projects related to quantum computing and quantum error correction
• Present results internally and externally, including at customer meetings, workshops and conferences

What we need  

• A PhD in Physics, Experimental Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
• Research experience in quantum computing, gained in academia or industry
• Experience designing, running and analysing experiments or simulations using research-grade tools
• An interest in quantum error correction and applying research in real-world settings
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting or discussing technical work
• Comfort with collaborating with customers and partners as part of the role
• The ability to work effectively in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team
• Willingness to travel occasionally within the UK and Europe

Even better if you have   

• Experience in QEC research

What can you expect from us 

• A comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual bonus plan, private medical insurance, life insurance, and a contributory pension scheme  

• Equity, so that our team can share in the long-term success of Riverlane  

• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and enhanced family leave  

• A diverse work environment that brings together experts in many fields (including software and hardware development, quantum information theory, physics and maths) and over 20 different nationalities  

• A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and development, including a regular programme of learning events and training and conference budgets 

How to apply 

Please upload a CV and covering letter by clicking 'Apply'. Your covering letter should explain why you are applying for the job and what skills and experience you can bring to the role. 

We review CVs as we receive them and interview as soon as we have applications that look like a good match. We do not use closing dates. So, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this role. 

If you have any queries, please contact jobs@riverlane.com. 

Everyone is welcome at Riverlane. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from eligible and suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity/paternity. 

Women and other underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a role unless they meet all or nearly all of the requirements.  If this applies to you, we still encourage you to apply - you may be a great fit, even if you don’t meet every single qualification. We’d love to hear from you. 

If you need any adjustments made to the application or selection process so you can do your best, please let us know. We will be happy to help. 

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