Quantum Hardware Scientist

Location: Waterloo, ON, Canada (On-site)

Engagement: Full-Time

Employer: SuperQ Quantum in partnership with University of Waterloo

Overview

SuperQ Quantum Computing Inc. (CSE: QBTQ) in partnership with the University of Waterloo is seeking two Quantum Hardware Scientists at post-doctoral or doctoral level to lead experimental research in developing and scaling its superconducting quantum processors. This role sits at the intersection of academic research and industry execution, spanning superconducting quantum device design, experimental characterization, control, cryogenic measurement, and experimental software automation.

You will work under the supervision of Dr. Matteo Mariantioni as part of the Quantum Digital Matter Lab at the University of Waterloo and be part of SuperQ’s scientific and engineering team. You will contribute to the expansion of SuperQ Quantum’s in-development superconducting quantum computer.

Your role will encompass industry and academia and a range of activities across hardware fabrication, microwave electronics, and control software to identify processor bottlenecks and translating experimental findings into architectural improvements.

Responsibilities

• Processor Design & Evaluation: Design, develop, and experimentally evaluate scalable superconducting quantum processors and custom quantum devices.
  
• Experimental Characterization: Plan and execute time-domain measurement routines to characterize qubit parameters, including T1, T2, and phase noise.
  
• Gate Calibration & Benchmarking: Develop, calibrate, and benchmark high-fidelity single- and two-qubit gates, readout mechanisms, and reset protocols.
  
• Error & Crosstalk Mitigation: Diagnose and mitigate sources of decoherence, crosstalk, control errors, and physical limitations to processor performance.
  
• Architectural Simulation: Partner with device designers on parameter optimization, coupling strategies, and 3D microwave simulations.
  
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead joint experimental programs SuperQ and UWaterloo to inform the overarching quantum technology roadmap.
  
• Experimental Automation: Write clean, modular software tools for data acquisition, hardware control, device modeling, and real-time calibration.
  
• Technical Documentation: Present experimental findings clearly through documentation, joint publications, and technical progress reviews.
  

Requirements

• Education: PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Quantum Engineering, or equivalent research experience for post-doctoral level position, and MS in one of these domains for doctoral level position.
  
• Hardware & Quantum Control: Hands-on experience with superconducting qubits, experimental quantum control, or related quantum hardware platforms.
  
• Cryogenics & RF: Practical expertise with cryogenic dilution refrigerators, RF/microwave measurement chains, and time-domain quantum characterization.
  
• Software: Strong programming skills in Python for software automation, data analysis, and scientific modeling.
  
• Analytical Skills: Excellent problem-solving, experimental design, and troubleshooting capabilities with a demonstrated ability to drive research independently.
  
• Communication: Outstanding collaboration skills to work effectively across academic, startup, and industry boundary teams.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in designing, simulating, or laying out superconducting quantum circuits.
  
• Familiarity with circuit QED simulation tools and superconducting device fabrication processes.
  
• Specialized expertise in randomized benchmarking, quantum gate calibration, noise characterization, or active crosstalk cancellation.
  
• Background in low-noise cryogenic electronics, custom PCB layout, or RF/microwave engineering.
  
• Experience using version control systems (e.g., Git) and collaborative software development workflows.
  
• Prior startup, industry, or technical leadership experience in quantum science or hardware.
  

Benefits

Environment and Culture

• Joint Research Ecosystem: Collaborate at the nexus of agile quantum hardware development, top-tier industry platform integration (SuperQ), and academic research (UWaterloo).
  
• Cutting-Edge Infrastructure: Access state-of-the-art cryogenic and fabrication facilities at the University of Waterloo and operating system software from SuperQ Quantum.
  
• Autonomy & Impact: High degree of ownership over key experimental modules with the ability to directly influence hardware roadmaps.
  
• Publication & Dissemination: Encouragement to publish breakthroughs, present at premier conferences, and share findings with the broader quantum community.
  

Equal Opportunities Statement

The SuperQ Quantum and the University of Waterloo are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse research environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status.

Interested in this role? Click here to apply.