Senior QPU Evaluation Scientist

Quantum is now, and it's built here.

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 looking for a Senior Scientist to join our QPU Testing team. In this role, you will serve as a trusted internal authority on system-level issues (e.g. optics, vacuum, electronics, and controls) encountered during test plan execution, contributing to the team’s mission of improving quantum computer performance through validation of QPU (quantum processing unit) designs and verification of individual QPUs produced by the manufacturing team.

You’ll play an important part in shaping the reliable delivery of cutting-edge QPUs in support of our work in building the world’s most advanced quantum systems.

What you'll be responsible for:
In this position, you will work on QPU characterisation using a fleet of ion-trapping testbeds, supporting the effective delivery of novel quantum processors for pushing the performance boundaries of quantum computers.

You’ll have the opportunity to be hands-on in the build, commissioning, maintenance, and upgrade cycle of on-site Oxford systems, while assessing the impact of system changes and coordinating integration details with systems engineering, contributing directly to the success of advanced QPU development and manufacture.

Key responsibilities include:

• Drive creation and evolution of validation test plans, procedures, and acceptance criteria, taking into account new testbed features developed by the Systems team.
• Translate system changes into practical, executable test coverage and readiness standards for QPU testing platforms.
• Drive structured troubleshooting of cross-domain system issues encountered during testing and close the loop on corrective actions.
• Execute and validate testing campaigns, including hands-on operation and troubleshooting of trapped-ion systems in Oxford.
• Support on-site Oxford system builds, commissioning, maintenance, and upgrades, establishing stable operational baselines by following and contributing to bring-up procedures.