Senior Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Atom ComputingBerkeley, CaliforniaOn-siteFull-timeSenior, 5–8 yearsListed 1 day ago

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About this role

Job Responsibilities

- Lead independent and collaborative theoretical and computational projects that drive the understanding and development of neutral atom quantum computers.

- Drive the development and architecture of atomic physics simulations, translating them into high-quality, maintainable software solutions.

- Identify and propose new research directions, tools, or methods — including AI-assisted approaches — that accelerate the team's theoretical and computational work.

- Collaborate with and provide technical guidance to Quantum Engineering, QEC Theory, and AMO Theory teams to model experimental results, develop noise models for quantum hardware, and inform design of neutral-atom quantum computers.

- Mentor junior AMO Theorists and help set best practices for theoretical and computational work across the team.

- Write clean, well-tested, and documented code in multiple languages (preferably Python, Julia, or C++).

Experience & Education

- PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

- 5+ years of post-PhD experience in research or the quantum industry.

- Extensive experience with scientific, high-performance, or quantum computing.

Qualifications

- Deep understanding of atomic, molecular and optical physics. Experience working with or modeling of Rydberg atoms is particularly appreciated.

- Demonstrated track record of independent research leadership, with a strong publication record within their field of research.

- Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

- Familiarity with modern software development practices: version control, unit testing, continuous integration, and documentation as well as public examples of past work that demonstrate coding quality and project delivery (e.g. via GitHub or equivalent).

- Experience with, or strong interest in, applying AI tools (e.g. LLMs, ML-based modeling or optimization methods) to accelerate research and engineering workflows.

- Temperamentally suited to work at a fast-growing startup: self-motivated, humble, driven, and collaborative, with a high tolerance for ambiguity.