Senior AMO Physicist - Neutral Atom Quantum Computing

ABOUT US

Infleqtion is a global quantum technology company solving the world’s most challenging problems. The company harnesses quantum mechanics to build and integrate quantum computers, sensors, and networks. From fundamental physics to leading edge commercial products, Infleqtion enables “quantum everywhere” through our ecosystem of devices and platforms. Our mission is to commercialise atom-based quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in performance and computing applications. 

LOCATION   

Infleqtion has offices in the USA, United Kingdom, and Australia. This is a full-time position split between our Kidlington, Oxford office and the National Quantum Computing Centre, Harwell. Work from home permitted up to 2 days per week based on business needs and manager approval.

POSITION SUMMARY 

As part of our strategy for growth in the UK, we are expanding our Physics Department and recruiting an experimental Senior AMO Physicist to join our neutral atom quantum computing team. In this role, you will actively contribute to ongoing research projects and assist in the exploration of new concepts and approaches for future quantum computing systems. Working closely with a team of physicists and engineers, you will play a vital role in the collaborative efforts of the team. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES  

Project Support  

• Translate product requirements into atomic system designs.  
• Execute modelling, simulation, and analytical calculations to design systems required to meet product performance. 
• Design and execute testing and verification plans.  
• Integrate complex opto-mechanical systems, electronics, and software into quantum devices.  
• Perform technical tasks needed for the success of the project from equipment setup to system demonstration. 
• Identify materials and components to meet project requirements. 
• Document project progress and identify, track and resolve any project issues.

Team Collaboration  

• Work collaboratively with team members against tight deadlines. 
• Ability to work with multi-disciplinary teams to develop commercial and non-commercial products and/or draft new quantum-led projects.  
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment where priorities may shift based on project needs and technological advancements. 
• Open to learning new techniques, integrating feedback, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to navigate ambiguity effectively.
• Ability to assess complex situations, adapt quickly, and make informed decisions under uncertainty.

Stakeholder Engagement  

• Contribute to external reports and publications, author/co-author papers, proposals, presentations and reports, give invited talks, attend project workshops and conferences.
• Explain and present complex quantum systems to internal and external stakeholders with a wide range of technical and non-technical backgrounds.

Requirements

What you will bring to the team:  

  Technical Knowledge  

• PhD in experimental atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics 
• Atom trapping using tightly focused laser beams 
• Rydberg physics and their interactions  
• Working knowledge of control systems and signal processing 
• Proficiency in a programming language (e.g. Python, Rust, C++) 
• Proficient in MS Office 
• Ability to problem-solve and debug complex systems comprised of optics, analogue and digital electronics, software and quantum devices
• Entrepreneurial drive, intellectual agility and personal eagerness to develop with the needs of the business 
• Good verbal and written communication skills, able to effectively share information with technical and non-technical staff, both in writing and orally 
• Good collaboration skills, able to work in a team environment where engagement and participation are an expected part of successful job performance.

 Experience  

• Demonstrable laboratory experience manipulating atoms, ions, or molecules with light  
• Proven track record of integrating complex hardware and software into systems 
• Understanding of ultra-high vacuum 
• Familiarity with mechanical, optical, and electronic design packages (e.g. Solidworks, Zemax, Altium)  
• Prior experience in project management is a plus.  
• Understanding of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) practices and modelling workplace safety culture. 

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS  

Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment and around technical equipment including computers and lasers.  Able to sit, stand, bend, lift and carry up to 15 kg without assistance.  Able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in-person). Any required Personal Protective Equipment will be provided and must be properly used in accordance with company requirements. 

TRAVEL 

Up to 10% travel may be required. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY  

Regardless of your interest in the quantum industry, you can take pride in the fact that Infleqtion is building an ecosystem of quantum technologies and commercial products, driving the industry towards the future. Studies reveal that while men apply for jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the requirements, women and other groups tend to apply only when they meet all the criteria. If you believe you have the potential but don't meet every single point in our job advertisement, please don't hesitate to contact us! We would love to chat with you and see how you could bring great value to our team. Our goal is to find exceptional individuals who can enrich our team culture, actively contribute, and have a genuine passion for their work. Here you have freedom to embrace your whole self: who you love, your gender identity and expression, skin colour, age, appearance, disability, neurodiversity, DNA, military/veteran status, citizenship, and other factors that make up who you are. Your uniqueness is valued, welcomed, and appreciated here. We are dedicated to providing a positive workplace and base all employment decisions on your qualifications, performance, merits, as well as business needs. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. 

Benefits

STARTING COMPENSATION  

 In addition to your base compensation, we offer a generous Total Rewards program which includes:   

• Competitive salary  

• Unlimited PTO  

• Generous company 10% pension contribution regardless of employee contribution  

• Cycle to work scheme 

• Tax efficient technology schemes  

• Incentive Stock Option Plan  

• BUPA Private Healthcare Insurance once probationary period is successfully completed 

CONTACT INFORMATION 

If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every requirement, we’d still love to hear from you! Apply, and we’ll be in touch. If you need assistance or accommodation, please feel free to contact us at hr@coldquanta.com.