Quantum Hardware Scientist (PhD required) at cofounder position

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Quantum Hardware Scientist (PhD required) at cofounder position Application deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026Employer web page: SoftquantusJob type: PhDTags: quantum photonicsQuantum HardwareQuantum CyberSecurityQuantum Random NumberscryptographySoftQuantus is building next-generation quantum infrastructure in Europe, with a long-term objective of developing scalable trapped-ion quantum computing systems focused on stability, reproducibility, and operational reliability. We are seeking a PhD-level experimental physicist to join as a technical cofounder and lead the hardware development effort.
Role Overview The Founding Quantum Hardware Scientist will: Lead the design and construction of a trapped-ion experimental platform Architect scalable ion trap systems (e.g., Yb⁺ or Ca⁺) Define and manage the system error budget Design laser, vacuum, RF, and control architectures Build a roadmap from single-ion demonstrator to multi-qubit system Establish laboratory setup, supplier network, and experimental workflows Contribute to grant proposals and technical strategy This is a long-term technical leadership role with equity participation.
Required Background PhD in Experimental Quantum Physics or closely related field Hands-on experience with trapped-ion systems Experience with ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems Laser stabilization and optical alignment RF drive and ion trap control Calibration, drift management, and noise analysis Experience running real experimental setups (not simulation-only) Preferred: Experience in scaling ion traps FPGA or real-time control systems Publications in ion trapping or quantum hardware development Prior startup or lab leadership experience What We Are Building SoftQuantus is developing: A vendor-neutral quantum control and benchmarking layer (QCOS) Hardware-level reliability and diagnostic frameworks Certification-grade benchmarking pipelines Hybrid HPC–Quantum workflows The hardware effort will integrate tightly with these control and reliability systems. Equity & Structure This is a cofounder position. Equity participation and vesting structure will reflect technical leadership, commitment level, and long-term involvement. We are looking for a partner to build a 10-year deep-tech company, not a short-term project. Log in or register to post comments
