Staff Researcher - Quantum Finance Engineering

IonQ is seeking a Staff Researcher, Quantum Computing for Financial Applications and Algorithms to drive the development and strategy of quantum solutions for the financial sector. This senior technical leadership role will be pivotal in defining the roadmap for next-generation quantum finance and security architectures, leveraging IonQ's expertise in hardware and algorithmic innovation. The core focus is on bridging quantum theory, AI/ML, and quantitative finance at scale.

As the ideal candidate, you will own key research initiatives, mentor junior researchers, and directly collaborate with global financial institutions. A critical responsibility is translating complex domain challenges into viable quantum-enabled solutions. This role involves working closely with IonQ's hardware, software, and research teams to accelerate the realization of quantum advantage in areas like financial modeling, optimization, and cryptography.

Responsibilities:

• Lead IonQ's R&D in quantum algorithms specifically for the finance sector, covering key areas such as portfolio optimization, risk modeling, derivatives pricing, fraud detection, and post-quantum security.
• Define and drive the quantum finance research strategy, establishing long-term technical directions that align with IonQ's overarching product roadmap and partnership objectives.
• Architect and validate quantum algorithmic frameworks suitable for both NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) and future fault-tolerant architectures. This includes integrating expertise in quantum information theory, circuit compilation, and error correction.
• Mentor and guide senior researchers and engineers, cultivating a high-impact, results-driven, and collaborative research environment.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with the Quantum Solutions, Product, and Business teams to successfully translate core research outcomes into deployable, real-world applications for enterprise clients.
• Engage strategically with leading financial institutions and regulatory bodies to facilitate the early adoption and shaping of quantum technologies in secure financial computing.
• Establish and nurture collaborations with top universities, national laboratories, and government organizations to significantly expand IonQ's external research ecosystem.
• Publish thought-leading research at premier conferences and in top-tier journals, establishing IonQ's reputation as a global authority in both quantum finance and quantum-secure architectures.
• Advise executive leadership on critical emerging trends in quantum computing, cryptographic security, and AI-driven financial technologies.

You'd be a good fit with:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Quantitative Finance, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in algorithmic research, computational finance, or quantum information, with at least 3 years in a leadership or principal investigator role.
• Deep technical expertise in quantum computing, error correction, compiler optimization, and high-performance computing.
• Proven experience in quantum AI/ML and its applications in finance.
• Advanced understanding of financial modeling, stochastic calculus, risk analytics, and optimization techniques.
• Demonstrated record of publishing, patenting, or deploying cutting-edge quantum or hybrid classical-quantum solutions.
• Strong track record of leading cross-disciplinary teams and influencing technical direction at the organizational level.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with both technical and executive audiences.

You'd be a great fit with:

• Knowledge in quantitative research
• Experience with use cases typical of banks and hedge funds

Location: This position can work onsite or hybrid from one of our offices (College Park, MD, Bothell, WA) or fully remote in the US.

Travel: Up to 20%

Job ID: 1220

The approximate base salary range for this position is $162,920 - $213,304. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity.