Researcher & Technical Program Manager

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Researcher & Technical Program Manager - Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) & Secure Networking. Location: Bothell, WA; College Park, MD; Remote, US

You will define IonQ’s technical roadmap, guide research and development, and ensure scalable deployment of secure quantum communication solutions.

Duties:

• Define and drive the strategy and long-term roadmap for QKD and secure quantum networks.
• Lead multidisciplinary research and engineering initiatives across trapped-ion quantum hardware, control systems, networking protocols, and cryptographic software.
• Architect, validate, and integrate QKD systems with classical networks and hybrid quantum-classical frameworks;
• Collaborate with financial, government, and telecom partners to deploy pilot demonstrations of secure quantum communication.
• Manage technical programs, ensuring milestones, deliverables, and research outcomes are achieved.
• Represent IonQ in standards organizations, policy forums, and consortia to influence quantum network interoperability;
• Publish and present research results, mentoring senior scientists and engineers in quantum optics, cryptography, and network architecture.
• Advise leadership on strategic investments, partnerships, and technology readiness for commercial quantum security solutions.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field, specializing in quantum communication, photonics, or cryptography.
• 18+ years of research or technical program experience in quantum communication, network systems, or applied cryptography.
• Expertise in QKD protocols such as BB84, E91, CV-QKD, and entanglement-based systems;
• Hands-on experience with quantum hardware, including photon sources, detectors, and synchronization.
• Familiarity with post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and hybrid cryptographic integration.
• Strong program management skills in research environments, including proposal development and milestone tracking.
• Excellent communication skills to translate technical insights into actionable strategies for internal and external stakeholders;
• Prior experience leading national or international QKD programs and participation in ETSI, ITU-T, or NIST quantum communication working groups is a plus.

Benefits and Instructions:

• Base salary range: $162,920–$213,304 per year, plus bonus, equity, and benefits.
• Total compensation varies based on experience, location, and skills;
• Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401K matching, unlimited PTO, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, home internet stipend, and pet insurance.
• Position allows onsite, hybrid, or fully remote work within the US.
• Up to 20% travel may be required;
• Applicants must meet U.S. export control requirements or hold appropriate authorization to work with controlled technologies.
• Interested candidates should submit their resume and indicate their preferred work location.