Sr. Quantum Applied Scientist, Device and Architecture Theory, AWS Center for Quantum Computing

DESCRIPTION

The Amazon Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians on a mission to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer.

As a Senior Quantum Applied Scientist on our Device and Architecture Theory team, you will be a technical authority and driving force in the theory and modeling of our superconducting qubit processors. You will lead detailed modeling efforts to explain experimental results, inform new processor designs, and optimize device performance, working closely with our measurement, design, and calibration teams. You will also help chart the strategic direction for next-generation processors, evaluating novel qubits, gate schemes, and scalable architectures for error correction and fault-tolerant logic. This is a role with significant room for innovation: you will play a key role in architecting our large-scale error-corrected quantum processors.

We are looking for a seasoned researcher with deep expertise in superconducting circuit physics and a proven track record of bridging theory and experiment. Success in this role requires both technical depth and a genuine passion for applied, collaborative work. The ideal candidate will excel at communication across disciplines — translating detailed analyses into actionable guidance for engineering teams — and will bring the experience and judgment to identify innovations that will have the greatest impact.

Key job responsibilities

• Develop theoretical and numerical models of superconducting qubit processors, working across theory, measurement, design, and calibration teams to validate predictions and translate modeling insights into device improvements

• Conduct pathfinding research on novel qubit designs, gate schemes, and processor architectures to push the performance of next-generation devices

• Communicate scientific findings across the CQC, and, when appropriate, share results externally via conference presentations and publications in scientific journals

• Identify and evaluate emerging research developments that could impact architectural decisions

About the team

The Amazon Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians, on a mission to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer.

Inclusive Team Culture

Here at Amazon, it’s in our nature to learn and be curious. Our employee-led affinity groups foster a culture of inclusion that empower us to be proud of our differences. Ongoing events and learning experiences, including our Conversations on Race and Ethnicity (CORE) and AmazeCon conferences, inspire us to never stop embracing our uniqueness.

Diverse Experiences

Amazon values diverse experiences. Even if you do not meet all of the preferred qualifications and skills listed in the job description, we encourage candidates to apply. If your career is just starting, hasn’t followed a traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, don’t let it stop you from applying.

Mentorship & Career Growth

We’re continuously raising our performance bar as we strive to become Earth’s Best Employer. That’s why you’ll find endless knowledge-sharing, mentorship and other career-advancing resources here to help you develop into a better-rounded professional.

Work/Life Balance

We value work-life harmony. Achieving success at work should never come at the expense of sacrifices at home, which is why we strive for flexibility as part of our working culture. When we feel supported in the workplace and at home, there’s nothing we can’t achieve in the cloud.

Export Control Requirement

Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be either a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be able to obtain a US export license. If you are unsure if you meet these requirements, please apply and Amazon will review your application for eligibility.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD

• PhD in physics, applied physics, electrical engineering, or an equivalent degree in a similar field, and 5+ years of related experience

• Significant expertise in one or more of the following areas: superconducting circuits, cavity/circuit QED, quantum optics, open quantum systems

• A demonstrated track record of original, impactful research in quantum physics

• Experience successfully delivering on projects as part of a cross-team collaboration

• Proficiency in a scientific programming environment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Expertise in superconducting qubits and their core operations - gates, readout, reset, etc.

• Familiarity with bosonic codes, erasure/dual-rail qubits, or protected qubits

• Familiarity with quantum error correction and fault tolerant logic

• Experience with theoretical and numerical modeling of multi-qubit quantum processors

• Experience working directly with experimental data or supporting an