Lead Quantum Device Theorist · Rigetti Computing

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:54:44 GMT
Engineering

Rigetti Computing · Berkeley · onsite
As a Lead Quantum Device Theorist, you will play a central role in advancing the performance of our superconducting quantum processors. This position requires deep expertise in circuit QED, quantum device physics, and noise modeling for quantum error correction (QEC). You will work closely with experimental teams to model processor dynamics and lead efforts to improve qubit readout fidelity and quantum gate performance across our R&D platforms. This role demands strong cross-functional collaboration with specialists in qubit readout, gate calibration, control systems, and superconducting circuit design. Together, you will drive innovations that support scalable architectures, quantum advantage, and fault-tolerant error correction. Key Responsibilities: * Develop and maintain advanced simulation tools to accurately model noise sources in flux-tunable superconducting qubits * Model and analyze entangling gate operations on superconducting quantum processors * Apply optimal control techniques to improve quantum gate and readout performance * Develop analytical tools to interpret experimental measurements and diagnose performance anomalies * Perform detailed error-budget modeling to support quantum error correction (QEC) efforts * Collaborate cross-functionally with teams in gate operations, measurement, device design, applications, algorithms, and control engineering. Required Qualifications: * Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, plus 5+ years of relevant work experience * Modeling noise in large scale processors and inform Hamiltonian designs * Experience simulating open quantum systems * Experience collaborating with experimentalists on readout and noise characterization; analyzing and interpreting experimental data, and predicting anomalies * Background in gate-based quantum computing or superconducting circuits, either academically or in industry * Demonstrated depth and breadth in circuit QED physics, including Hamiltonian modeling, dispersive readout theory, and multi-qubit coupling architectures * Proven expertise in noise modeling for quantum error correction, including coherent and incoherent error channels, leakage, crosstalk, and correlated noise * Strong programming skills in Python for scientific applications Preferred Qualifications: * Experience with optimal control theory applied to superconducting qubits * Familiarity with quantum error correction codes and fault-tolerant architectures * Track record of publications in relevant peer-reviewed journals * Experience with high-performance computing or GPU-accelerated simulations * Proficiency with scientific computing libraries such as QuTiP, or Stim