Director, Quantum Finance Theory

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Director, Quantum Finance Theory. Location: Bothell, WA; College Park, MD; Remote, US

This role will define IonQ’s theoretical roadmap, guide research teams, shape partnerships with academia, government, and industry, and influence next-generation quantum products that demonstrate provable quantum advantage.

Duties:

• Lead the global research roadmap in quantum complexity theory, cryptography, quantum information, and many-body physics.
• Identify opportunities for intractable quantum simulation, post-quantum cryptography, and applications demonstrating quantum advantage.
• Guide cross-functional teams including hardware, systems, algorithms, and applications to ensure platforms support advanced computational and cryptographic demonstrations.
• Advise leadership on strategy, publications, and long-term competitive positioning;
• Build and manage a high-performing team of quantum finance theorists and research scientists.
• Develop and maintain collaborations with banks, regulators, government agencies, and industry consortia.
• Integrate research outcomes into IonQ’s commercial products through collaboration with product and solutions teams.
• Oversee budgets, resource allocation, and global R&D initiatives;
• Mentor senior leaders and researchers, setting standards for innovation, rigor, and reproducibility.
• Represent IonQ as a thought leader at conferences, publications, and policy dialogues.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or Quantitative Finance Theory.
• 18+ years of research experience in quantum information, complexity theory, cryptography, or mathematical physics.
• Proven experience building and scaling global R&D or engineering organizations;
• Expertise in quantum information theory, algorithm design, high-performance computing, and quantum software systems.
• Understanding of financial modeling, stochastic processes, risk management, and optimization frameworks.
• Experience leading collaborations across academia, government, and industry;
• Proficiency with quantum programming frameworks such as Qiskit, Cirq, or PennyLane.
• Publication or patent record in quantum algorithms, computational finance, or applied AI/ML.
• Executive communication skills to influence both technical teams and C-suite stakeholders.

Benefits and Instructions:

• Base salary range: $247,781–$324,409, plus bonus, equity, and benefits.
• Compensation varies based on skills, experience, and location;
• US benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401K matching, PTO, parental leave, legal insurance, home internet stipend, and pet insurance.
• Flexible work options: onsite, hybrid, or fully remote in the US.
• Travel up to 20% may be required;
• Applicants must meet US export control requirements for technical positions.
• To apply, submit your resume and cover letter, indicating your preferred work location.