Quantum Applications Architect

Job Title

Quantum Applications Architect

Role Summary

The Quantum Applications Architect designs, benchmarks, and implements quantum algorithms targeted at fault-tolerant photonic quantum computers. The role sits on the applications team and works closely with quantum architecture, compilation, software, and external partners to translate use cases into deployable algorithms and tooling.

Work involves algorithm R&D, resource simulation, performance evaluation, and co-optimization with architecture and fabrication teams to guide hardware and software priorities.

Experience Level

Mid-level (Mid-Career). The posting requires significant research experience but does not specify years of experience.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include research, development, and collaboration to mature quantum applications for fault-tolerant hardware.

• Research and develop quantum-algorithm techniques tailored for fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Design, develop, and benchmark quantum applications and supporting tools.
• Simulate and analyze resource requirements for fault-tolerant implementations on photonic hardware.
• Collaborate with architecture and compilation teams to co-optimize algorithms and hardware design.
• Work with external partners and internal stakeholders to instantiate, validate, and optimize algorithms for domain-specific use cases (e.g., life sciences, sustainability).
• Translate algorithmic research into practical implementations ahead of and during large-scale hardware availability.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and professional attributes; preferred items are noted.

• Significant research experience in quantum algorithms, compilation, complexity, or applications research (must-have).
• Proven ability to simulate and analyze resource requirements for fault-tolerant algorithms and to interpret results for engineering trade-offs (must-have).
• Familiarity with quantum compilation and algorithm implementation workflows (must-have).
• Strong analytical problem-solving skills and a results-driven execution mindset (must-have).
• Proven ability to collaborate across teams, sites, and time zones; able to communicate technical details to application and architecture experts (must-have).
• Ability to work independently in a fast-moving start-up environment (must-have).
• Preferred: experience with quantum algorithms or compilers specifically in the fault-tolerant gates regime.
• Preferred: prior experience in high-throughput or rapid-delivery research environments and with domain-specific applications (e.g., life sciences, sustainability).

Education Requirements

Graduate degree required: MSc or PhD (or equivalent) in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a closely related technical field; equivalent practical experience may be considered.

About the Company

Company: PsiQuantum

Headquarters: Palo Alto, CA, United States

PsiQuantum develops silicon-photonic quantum computers aimed at building million-qubit, fault-tolerant systems. Founded in 2016, the company combines semiconductor manufacturing processes, photonic hardware, and quantum software to scale quantum systems for commercial and government applications.