Quantum Algorithms Scientist

Phasecraft is the quantum algorithms company. We are building the mathematical foundations for quantum computing applications that solve real-world problems. Founded in 2019 by Toby Cubitt, Ashley Montanaro and John Morton, we are based in London and Bristol in the UK and opened an office in Washington DC in 2024, led by Steve Flammia. In 2023 we completed a $17m Series A funding round led by leading Silicon Valley deep tech VC, Playground Global.

Phasecraft’s unprecedented access to today’s best quantum computers – through partnerships with Google, IBM, QuEra and Rigetti – provides us with unique opportunities to develop foundational IP, inform the development of next-generation quantum hardware, and accelerate commercialization of high-value breakthroughs.

We are looking to hire a Quantum Algorithms Scientist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in the theory of algorithms for gate-model quantum computers or related topics in quantum computing theory, quantum information theory or related areas of quantum theory. Their work will contribute to Phasecraft’s goal of developing quantum algorithms for near-term quantum computers, and may encompass topics such as algorithm optimization and design, quantum codes, resource analysis, error mitigation, and hardware benchmarking. They will have the opportunity to grow a portfolio of research activity across the breadth of Phasecraft’s interests.

Job Description

• Undertake theoretical and/or applied research on near-term quantum computing algorithms, applications and/or enabling theoretical technologies.
• Help to author publications, presentations, patent applications and similar resulting from the research.
• Work collaboratively in a small international team made up of full-time staff and affiliated PhD students.
• Other activities as required to support the growth and success of Phasecraft.

Requirements

Essential criteria:

• Expertise in quantum information and/or computation theory.
• PhD (or soon to receive one) in quantum information, quantum computation theory, theoretical computer science, theoretical physics, or closely related field.
• Ability to work independently on research projects and to work in a team.
• Strong publication track-record in relevant discipline.
• Flexibility to work across different aspects of quantum software and underpinning theory.
• Flexibility to work on other tasks required to support the growth and success of the company.

Desirable criteria:

• An interest in near-term quantum computing.
• Either experience of implementing algorithms on quantum hardware and/or in classical emulation; or strong theoretical/mathematical research track-record with an interest in applying this to quantum computing; or software development skills and experience.
• Enthusiasm for learning and novel research.
• Excellent communication skills.