Lead Microwave Research Scientist

Job Description

Job Title: Lead Microwave Research Scientist. Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA

The role supports the development of new system-level capabilities for quantum devices and requires deep expertise in microwave engineering, device fabrication & cross-disciplinary collaboration; You will guide technical direction, own vendor relationships; and help scale fabrication workflows as IonQ expands its trapped-ion quantum computing platform.

Duties:

• Translate system-level architecture needs into detailed component-level requirements and design rules.
• Design microwave circuits that meet target performance and integrate with optical and electronic subsystems.
• Fabricate test devices and refine processes to improve reliability and performance;
• Lead foundry-scale fabrication efforts and manage external vendor relationships.
• Collaborate with internal test and measurement teams to verify device performance.
• Develop integration methods that improve overall system efficiency and functionality;
• Support cross-functional projects involving hardware, photonics, and electronics teams.

Qualifications:

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• More than 5 years of experience fabricating microwave devices;
• Experience leading technical teams and coordinating large research projects.
• Ability to convert high-level system goals into clear engineering requirements;
• Knowledge of cryogenic testing, device operation, and architectures for distributed quantum computing, sensing, or networking.
• Helpful experience in acquiring independent funding, as well as hiring and training research teams.

Benefits and Instructions:

• Base salary range: $141,670 to $185,482, plus bonus, equity, and comprehensive benefits.
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, unlimited PTO, paid holidays, parental leave, legal insurance, matching 401K, home internet stipend, and pet insurance.
• Role is on-site in Boston with less than 10% travel;
• Employment is subject to U.S. export control compliance; applicants must meet eligibility requirements regarding work authorization and residency;
• To apply, submit your resume and optional cover letter through IonQ’s application portal and complete the required eligibility questions.