We are seeking a highly accomplished VP of Quantum Software Engineering to oversee and drive the architecture and development of our full software stack, from high level applications to low-level quantum processors control. You will lead a team of talented software engineers and collaborate closely with our hardware, quantum, and algorithm development teams to deliver a customer-focused, robust, and scalable software stack.
This is a technical and strategic leadership position that requires deep experience developing complex software for hybrid quantum processors, strong software engineering leadership, and an understanding of applied classical and quantum algorithm principles.
Key Responsibilities:
Drive software architecture, compiler and runtime development strategy
Drive the development of the compiler architecture, algorithms and compiler logic required for real-time, high-fidelity qubit shuttling.
Direct the development, optimization, and scaling of our full-stack quantum software ecosystem, including our quantum compilers, runtime environments, and cloud APIs.
Own the software strategy for Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing, ensuring seamless integration between CPU/GPU clusters and our quantum processing units (QPUs).
Partner directly with the VP of Quantum Architecture and the Silicon/Cryo-CMOS teams to drive system co-design, ensuring our software extracts maximum fidelity and performance from our physical qubits.
Work with the algorithm and engineering teams to implement support within the software stack for scalable Quantum Error Correction (QEC) algorithms and logical qubit virtualization
Work with our engineering and scientific teams toDevelop and implement simulation and modeling tools to evaluate the performance and reliability of fault-tolerant quantum computing systems.
Requirements:
Strong knowledge and understanding of quantum computing, including quantum software, quantum hardware & quantum algorithms. Candidates should have a comprehensive understanding of fault-tolerant quantum computing, with experience in the following areas: error-correction and decoding, quantum computing, error modeling, logical gate design, magic state distillation, lattice surgery.
Experience with quantum algorithms and compiling in the regime of fault tolerant gates.
Relevant experience in academia or industry research in quantum error correction and fault-tolerance using a range of techniques, such as error correction, fault-tolerant gates, and quantum error mitigation.
Familiarity with quantum computing software development tools, such as Qiskit, Cirq, or TKET.
Candidates should have a comprehensive knowledge of LLVM or similar compilation framework
Competence in programming using Python (or similar) and experience with machine learning algorithms is desirable.
Experience working with cross-functional teams, including engineering, algorithm development, software, and quantum measurement teams.
PhD in Physics, Maths, Engineering or Computer Science, with a focus on quantum error correction, quantum information theory or quantum computation preferred.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to design and develop software for complex fault-tolerant systems effectively.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with quantum engineers, scientists, and other technical professionals.
Preferred Qualifications:
Direct Quantum Experience: Previous leadership role at a quantum hardware or software startup, or within a major tech company's quantum division.
Expertise in Dynamic Architectures: Deep technical understanding of the software requirements for dynamic connectivity, specifically compiling circuits that rely on qubit shuttling
Error Correction Expertise: Deep understanding of the software requirements for fault-tolerant quantum computing and QEC decoding.
Qualifications:
Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Computer Science, Quantum Computing, Physics, or a related field.
Proven experience (10+ years) in commercial software engineering, with a significant portion in a leadership role.
Deep understanding of quantum mechanics and quantum computing principles.
Experience with quantum programming languages (e.g., Qiskit, Cirq, TKET) and classical programming languages (e.g., Python, C++).
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think strategically about technology and its business implications.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead and inspire a diverse team.
Track record of successful project management and delivery in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
Skills Required
- Strong knowledge of quantum computing including software, hardware & algorithms
- Experience in error-correction and decoding, quantum computing
- PhD in Physics, Maths, Engineering or Computer Science
- 10+ years in commercial software engineering
- Experience with quantum programming languages (Qiskit, Cirq, TKET)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
What We Do
Equal1 Laboratories is accelerating the introduction of useful, cost effective quantum computers within a three-year time horizon. The company has developed a disruptive, scalable and cost-effective quantum computing technology, based on a commercially available silicon semiconductor process. Our solution uses nanometer-scale quantum dots to form qubits on a standard silicon CMOS process. Along with silicon qubits, we have integrated all functions required for a quantum processing unit (QPU) – the brain of the quantum computer – which operates at 3 kelvin with over 10 million transistors. This is the first integrated quantum processing unit of its kind. The company’s server-sized demonstrator, called Alice, uses the second generation, fully functioning QPU. Alice uses our 424 quantum-dot-array structure to demonstrate early indications of the impact this technology can have on AI applications. Equal1 is developing its silicon-based quantum computer technology in collaboration with University College Dublin, with hardware development laboratories in Fremont, California and a silicon design center at NovaUCD in Dublin, Ireland
