Sr. Quantum Applied Scientist, Device and Architecture Theory, AWS Center for Quantum Computing

The Amazon Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians on a mission to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer.

As a Senior Quantum Applied Scientist on our Device and Architecture Theory team, you will be a technical authority and driving force in the theory and modeling of our superconducting qubit processors. You will lead detailed modeling efforts to explain experimental results, inform new processor designs, and optimize device performance, working closely with our measurement, design, and calibration teams. You will also help chart the strategic direction for next-generation processors, evaluating novel qubits, gate schemes, and scalable architectures for error correction and fault-tolerant logic. This is a role with significant room for innovation: you will play a key role in architecting our large-scale error-corrected quantum processors.
We are looking for a seasoned researcher with deep expertise in superconducting circuit physics and a proven track record of bridging theory and experiment. Success in this role requires both technical depth and a genuine passion for applied, collaborative work. The ideal candidate will excel at communication across disciplines — translating detailed analyses into actionable guidance for engineering teams — and will bring the experience and judgment to identify innovations that will have the greatest impact.

Key job responsibilities

• Develop theoretical and numerical models of superconducting qubit processors, working across theory, measurement, design, and calibration teams to validate predictions and translate modeling insights into device improvements
• Conduct pathfinding research on novel qubit designs, gate schemes, and processor architectures to push the performance of next-generation devices
• Communicate scientific findings across the CQC, and, when appropriate, share results externally via conference presentations and publications in scientific journals
• Identify and evaluate emerging research developments that could impact architectural decisions

About the team
The Amazon Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians, on a mission to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer.

Inclusive Team Culture
Here at Amazon, it’s in our nature to learn and be curious. Our employee-led affinity groups foster a culture of inclusion that empower us to be proud of our differences. Ongoing events and learning experiences, including our Conversations on Race and Ethnicity (CORE) and AmazeCon conferences, inspire us to never stop embracing our uniqueness.

Diverse Experiences
Amazon values diverse experiences. Even if you do not meet all of the preferred qualifications and skills listed in the job description, we encourage candidates to apply. If your career is just starting, hasn’t followed a traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, don’t let it stop you from applying.

Mentorship & Career Growth
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Work/Life Balance
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Export Control Requirement
Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be either a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be able to obtain a US export license. If you are unsure if you meet these requirements, please apply and Amazon will review your application for eligibility.

- Expertise in superconducting qubits and their core operations - gates, readout, reset, etc.

• Familiarity with bosonic codes, erasure/dual-rail qubits, or protected qubits
• Familiarity with quantum error correction and fault tolerant logic
• Experience with theoretical and numerical modeling of multi-qubit quantum processors
• Experience working directly with experimental data or supporting an experimental collaboration
• Expertise in numerical methods and experience with high-performance computing
• Experience setting technical direction for a research team or initiative.

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.

Los Angeles County applicants: Job duties for this position include: work safely and cooperatively with other employees, supervisors, and staff; adhere to standards of excellence despite stressful conditions; communicate effectively and respectfully with employees, supervisors, and staff to ensure exceptional customer service; and follow all federal, state, and local laws and Company policies. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness and professionalism, and safeguard business operations and the Company’s reputation. Pursuant to the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

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