PsiQuantum is on a mission to build the world’s first utility-scale, 1 million-plus qubit quantum computer, powered by breakthroughs in silicon photonics and quantum architecture. We were founded in 2015 by the world’s foremost experts in photonic quantum computing and have assembled a world class team dedicated to bringing the world-changing benefits of quantum computing into reality.

Quantum computing is anticipated to unlock the solutions to otherwise impossible computational tasks, with impact across science, technology, and business. By harnessing the laws of quantum physics, quantum computers are expected to dramatically outperform even the most powerful existing (or future) supercomputers and offer the potential to enable extraordinary advances across a broad range of applications including climate, energy, healthcare, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials design, and more, as well as deliver entirely new industries.

PsiQuantum is uniquely positioned to deliver on the promise of quantum computing. We have already demonstrated that it’s possible to manufacture core quantum components using the standard and scalable manufacturing processes of a world-leading semiconductor fab.

Our team is working across the full stack of quantum computing, from hardware design, manufacturing, and packaging through to quantum architecture and quantum algorithms. We’re a highly integrated, collaborative group and love tackling problems that span across interfaces.

There’s more work to be done and we are looking for exceptional talent to join us on this extraordinary journey!

Our 2024 quantum applications internship program offers competitive paid internships and industrial placement opportunities with durations from 3 to 9 months throughout the year, working in the areas of quantum algorithms and compilation. We offer placement opportunities in Palo Alto, California (United States), as well as in our remote office locations in Europe and the United Kingdom.

Applications will be accepted up to Feb 28th, 2024 and interviews will be conducted through March 30th, 2024, after which positions for the program will be offered.

Job Summary:

We are looking for enthusiastic people who want to work in cutting edge research to advance the utility of quantum computing as a real-world technology. As an intern you will work with world experts in quantum algorithms, compilation and fault tolerance to contribute to the development of useful applications for large-scale, fault tolerant quantum computers.

There are multiple opportunities across the applications team, including:

Quantum algorithms:

• Development of quantum algorithms to solve impactful problems.
• Optimization of ubiquitous subroutines in fault tolerant quantum algorithm.

Compilation:

• Compilation of quantum algorithms to logical gate sets.
• Incorporation of architecture-aware optimizations.

Applications software:

• Resource estimation.
• Simulation and compilation of quantum circuits.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct cutting-edge research in the areas of quantum algorithms, quantum software and quantum compilation.
• Contribute to collaborative software / research projects.
• Author internal reports and documentation about their work.

Experience/Qualifications:

• Currently studying for, or completed a postgraduate degree related to quantum algorithms, quantum circuit compilation, fault tolerance or another aspect of quantum computing.
• Experience with programming languages (e.g. Python) and collaborative software development tools (e.g. Git).
• A creative and adaptable approach to problem solving.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative team.

The internship role requires a challenging mix of creativity, analytical skills, and knowledge in one of the above areas. Enthusiasm for quantum computing is essential!

Desired experience and skills:

• Currently studying for, or completed a postgraduate degree related to quantum algorithms, quantum circuit compilation, fault tolerance or another aspect of quantum computing.
• Experience with programming languages (e.g. Python) and collaborative software development tools (e.g. Git).
• A creative and adaptable approach to problem solving.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative team.

Application Instructions

***Your application should include the following information:

• Current CV – Including current contact information for us to reach out to you
• Cover letter – This should be at most 1 page long and should address the following questions:

• What motivates you to pursue an internship in quantum computing?
• How does your most relevant experience relate to this internship?
• What is your usual approach to solving scientific problems? For example:
  • Do you like writing code to simulate systems?
  • Pen-and-paper work to figure out proofs?
  • Analyzing and understanding data?
  • Using Mathematica to solve integrals?

Please also answer the following questions:

• Which of these three areas are you most interested in?
  • Quantum algorithms
  • Compilation
  • Applications software

• Are you able to work out of our office in Palo Alto, California (United States)?
• What is the preferred length of time you can intern with us?

• Please provide one or more references who you feel are familiar with your potential in a research environment.
• Please provide links to any of your academic or professional profiles (e.g. Google Scholar, LinkedIn, Github, …)

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.

We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.

The range of this role is based on level you have completed in school, please see table below. These ranges reflects the minimum and maximum target hourly range across all US locations. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future. The role may also be eligible for benefits.