R&D Engineer, Superconducting Device Characterization

Quantum computing holds the promise of humanity’s mastery over the natural world, but only if we can build a real quantum computer. PsiQuantum is on a mission to build the first real, useful quantum computers, capable of delivering the world-changing applications that the technology has long promised. We know that means we will need to build a system with roughly 1 million qubits that supports fault tolerant error correction within a scalable architecture, and a data center footprint.

By harnessing the laws of quantum physics, quantum computers can provide exponential performance increases over today’s most powerful supercomputers, offering the potential for extraordinary advances across a broad range of industries including climate, energy, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials design, and many more.

PsiQuantum has determined the fastest path to delivering a useful quantum computer, years earlier than the rest of the industry. Our architecture is based on silicon photonics which gives us the ability to produce our components at Tier-1 semiconductor fabs such as GlobalFoundries where we leverage high-volume semiconductor manufacturing processes, the same processes that are already producing billions of chips for telecom and consumer electronics applications. We also benefit from the quantum mechanics reality that photons don’t feel heat or electromagnetic interference, allowing us to take advantage of existing cryogenic cooling systems and industry standard fiber connectivity.

In 2024, PsiQuantum announced two government-funded projects to support the build-out of our first Quantum Data Centers and utility-scale quantum computers in Brisbane, Australia and Chicago, Illinois. Both projects are backed by nations that understand quantum computing’s potential impact and the need to scale this technology to unlock that potential. And we won’t just be building the hardware, but also the fault tolerant quantum applications that will provide industry-transforming results.

Quantum computing is not just an evolution of the decades-old advancement in compute power. It provides the key to mastering our future, not merely discovering it. The potential is enormous, and we have the plan to make it real. Come join us.

There’s much more work to be done and we are looking for exceptional talent to join us on this extraordinary journey!

Job Summary: 

The Superconducting Devices team at PsiQuantum is working to push the performance of single photon detectors to their limit. We are seeking an engineer to run laboratory experiments on prototype detectors. The role will involve development of novel device characterization methods for deep-dive studies as well as the planning and execution of high-volume testing for statistical learning. Prior experience with cryogenic electrical measurements and automation using Python will be valuable for this role.

Responsibilities:

• Performing cryogenic electro-optical RF measurements of single-photon detectors & related superconducting devices.
• Developing new characterization setups and test routines.
• Analyzing data and developing data analysis routines.
• Characterizing photonic-integrated-circuit superconducting single-photon detectors for use in quantum computing.
• Collaborating with design and fabrication teams to develop device characterization plans and methods.
• Collaborating with systems engineering team to design and set up cryogenic experimental test equipment.
• Extensive and continuous survey and analysis of scientific literature on superconducting single-photon detectors.
• Learning and understanding the physics and experimental behavior of these detectors.
• Understanding device design constraints and contributing to new device designs and experiments.
• Contributing to the intellectual property of the company regarding single photon detection

Experience/Qualifications:

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related fields, or MS with relevant experience.
• 4+ years of hands-on experimental research experience with superconducting devices, cryogenic materials, and devices or detectors.
• Experience with cryogenic, low-noise electro-optical experimental design and device characterization.
• Experience with the design of experiments for device performance validation and model-experiment closure.
• Experience with computer programming with Python.
• High-impact publications in independently peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Single-photon detector experience is preferred.
• Experience with low noise electronic circuits is preferred.
• Solid fundamentals in superconducting device physics is a plus.

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.
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