Staff Scientist PIC Laser

IonQ, Inc. [NYSE: IONQ] is the world’s leading quantum platform and merchant supplier - delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. IonQ’s newest generation of quantum computers, the IonQ Tempo, is the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems that have been helping customers and partners including Amazon Web Services, and AstraZeneca achieve 20x performance results and accelerate innovation in drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. In 2025, the company achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in quantum computing performance.

Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, IonQ has operations in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Washington, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Our quantum computing services are available through all major cloud providers, while we also meet the needs of networking and sensing customers across land, sea, air, and space. IonQ is making quantum platforms more accessible and impactful than ever before.  

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together to solve complex challenges and turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. We value collaboration, curiosity, and diverse perspectives, and we give every team member the opportunity to make an immediate impact while growing their skills. If you’re excited to work on breakthrough technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we’d love to hear from you.

As a PIC Laser Scientist, you will bridge the gap between fundamental optical physics and scalable chip-scale technology. You will be responsible for the end-to-end development of custom laser systems, evolving them from initial concept through system-level integration. Your work will primarily focus on architecting the transition of high-precision frequency combs and ultra-low-noise systems from traditional discrete components to advanced Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) platforms. By combining hands-on benchtop metrology with sophisticated chip-level simulation, you will drive the innovation of laser architectures for next-generation quantum timing, atomic clocks, and inertial sensors. 

• →3+ years of professional experience working with ultra-stable cavities, frequency combs, or atomic clocks.
• →PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on atomic/optical physics, frequency metrology, or integrated photonics.
• →To comply with the US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (i.e. green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees.
• →Metrology Expertise: Hands-on experience measuring RIN, frequency noise, and phase noise using Phase Noise Analyzers and high-speed RF equipment.
• →Nonlinear Optics: Experience with supercontinuum generation or SHG in bulk crystals, nonlinear fibers, or integrated waveguides.
• →Fiber & Bulk Optics: Proficiency in fiber fusion splicing (PM/specialty), fiber spooling, and high-tolerance free-space assembly.

• Integrated Photonics Design: Proficiency in simulation suites such as Lumerical (FDTD/MODE) or COMSOL for designing waveguides and resonators.
• Frequency Comb Mastery: Deep understanding of mode-locked lasers and fceo- detection and stabilization.
• Advanced Materials: Practical experience with chip-level probing and coupling (edge/grating) specifically for SiN, Thin-Film Lithium Niobate, or Tantala.
• Control Systems: Strong understanding of PID control loops, high-bandwidth feedback, and low-noise frequency/power controllers.
• Scientific Computing: Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for automating optical characterization and processing high-bandwidth noise data.
• Optical Packaging: Experience with high-efficiency laser-to-chip integration and coupling techniques.

  **Benefits will be provided by Vector Atomic, an IonQ Company, and will differ from the benefits listed on the IonQ website.**

If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!