Quantum Flagship

A leading quantum computing innovator in Oxford is seeking a Quantum Systems Scientist to ensure the performance and reliability of trapped-ion quantum systems. The role involves diagnostics, troubleshooting, and developing robust engineering solutions to maximize system uptime. Ideal candidates will have a PhD in a relevant field and hands-on experience with complex cold-atom experiments. This position offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a flexible hybrid working environment.

Oxford Ionics, now part of IonQ, is pioneering the next generation of quantum computing. Using our world leading trapped ion technology, we're building the most powerful, accurate and reliable quantum systems to tackle problems that today's supercomputers cannot solve. Joining Oxford Ionics means becoming part of a global IonQ team that is transforming the future of quantum technology - faster, at scale, and with real world impact. What to expect: We are searching for a Quantum Systems Scientist to join our Systems team. This is a key role responsible for ensuring our quantum systems are continuously operational, scalable and robust, enabling cutting edge experiments and development across the business. You'll play a central role in building tools and systems that monitor and improve uptime, troubleshoot downtime and drive technical changes to enhance system reliability. Working with complex optomechanical systems, this role will combine diagnosis of faults with systems level thinking and collaborative problem solving across hardware and software teams. What you'll be responsible for: You will play a critical role in ensuring the continuous operation and performance of our trapped ion quantum systems. Your primary focus will be to maximise system uptime by enhancing diagnostic capabilities, identifying root causes of downtime and working collaboratively across engineering teams to develop robust, preventative solutions. You will be deeply involved in system level analysis, building tools and dashboards to surface key performance indicators and helping shape the procedures and infrastructure that support our growing number of quantum systems. This is a hands on, systems oriented role that combines technical rigour with operational ownership. Key responsibilities include: System diagnostics and monitoring- Expand and refine hardware and software diagnostics; log and visualise key parameters; implement sensors and build dashboards to enable rapid fault finding. Downtime analysis and resolution- Analyse performance data to identify system bottlenecks or weak points; lead cross functional efforts to design and implement robust engineering fixes. Preventative and reactive maintenance- Own and schedule maintenance plans; support and mentor technicians; debug complex system issues as they arise. Process and tooling improvement- Improve documentation, procedures and training for system maintenance and upgrades, including trap changes and routine operations. System design- Bring reliability to the core of future system designs, addressing current problems with engineering solutions. Requirements We are looking for a high performing systems scientist with hands on experience in the design, build and operation of complex cold atom experiments. You'll have worked extensively with hardware systems in a lab setting, ideally including ion traps, optical clocks, or ultra cold atom setups. You'll also have a deep understanding of free space optics. This is a highly collaborative role, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both engineers and technicians to improve system performance and reliability. Essential experience and attributes: Proven track record designing, building and operating complex cold atom systems (e.g. ion traps, ultra cold atoms, optical clocks). Background in hardware focused experimental physics, with expertise in free space optics. PhD in a relevant discipline, ideally with post doctoral experience in a high performing research group. Strong communicator, able to collaborate across technical disciplines and coordinate with engineering and technician teams. Programming experience in Python or ARTIQ. Experience automating and monitoring lab systems. Potential to grow into a leadership role as the team scales. Be part of a team that's shaping the future of quantum. We offer more than just a role, you'll join a world class community of scientists, engineers and innovators working to unlock the full potential of quantum computing. We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career alongside industry leaders, a competitive salary with IonQ stock options, an annual performance bonus, generous annual leave, flexible hybrid working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, and much more. Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing. We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. How to apply Please apply directly via our website. Oxford Ionics

We are pioneering advancements in quantum computing by utilising trapped ion technology and our proprietary laser-free quantum control methods. Our research and development efforts build on our fully integrated quantum processors that can be fabricated within standard silicon foundries. This unique approach allows us to leverage the highest-performing qubit technology while ensuring scalability and manufacturability using existing semiconductor fabrication technology. We approach quantum computing with a focus on minimising errors, striving to achieve ultra-low gate errors at scale. Our immediate objective is to develop functional quantum computers within the NISQ regime, aiming to construct fault-tolerant machines that require minimal QEC overhead. Our recent breakthroughs include achieving 99.99% fidelity in two-qubit gates and 99.9992% fidelity in single-qubit operations without error correction, setting new industry standards for performance. What to expect: As a Quantum Scientist, you will be at the forefront of our research efforts, working hands-on with our current hardware while helping to shape future generations of quantum processors. Your work will span designing, coding, debugging, and executing experiments, developing novel control schemes, and pushing the boundaries of system performance. What you'll be responsible for: Prototype and characterise coherent control and cooling schemes for trapped-ion qubits using laser and microwave fields. Calibrate and benchmark quantum systems, focusing on achieving ultra-low gate errors and optimising performance across device modules. Validate emerging trap technologies, including integrated electronics and photonics for large-scale architectures. Analyse experimental data, debug complex hardware/software interactions, and ensure reliability of qubit operations. Present results internally and externally, representing Oxford Ionics at conferences and in collaborations. What you'll need: You will need a PhD in physics or a related discipline, with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit-related physics. Prior postdoctoral or industry experience is valuable, but this role is open to candidates moving directly from a PhD. A solid background in quantum control, with hands-on experience in calibration, benchmarking, or coherent control of qubits, would be desirable. You will need: Proven expertise in experimental AMO physics or quantum computing. Experience with trapped ions is preferred. Strong collaborative skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a fast-moving team. Prior experience in one or more of the following: spectroscopy or simulation of multi-level systems, characterisation of control hardware, gate fidelity benchmarking or running quantum algorithms on hardware. Strong proficiency in programming and data analysis. A track record of scientific communication through publications, talks and conferences would be advantageous. So why us? Oxford Ionics is leading the way in quantum technology, and we need skilled, innovative individuals like you. We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career with a world-class team, business stock options, generous annual leave, flexible working, medical, dental and vision insurance for you and your family, and much more. Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing. Oxford Ionics is committed to equal opportunity for all. How to apply Fill in the short application at this link - Oxford Ionics