Quantum Systems Scientist
Oxford Ionics
The future is quantum. Oxford Ionics is at the forefront of pioneering quantum computing, delivering world-leading innovation to create the most powerful, accurate, and reliable quantum systems. Quantum computing offers a radically new way of building computers that harnesses the power of quantum physics to outperform conventional supercomputers exponentially. Using our unique trapped-ion technology, we are leading the race to unleash quantum computing's unparalleled potential.
What to expect:
We are searching for a Quantum Systems Scientist to join our Quantum Infrastructure team. This is a key role responsible for ensuring our quantum systems are continuously operational, scalable and robust, enabling cutting-edge experiments and development across the business.
You’ll play a central role in building tools and systems that monitor and improve uptime, troubleshoot downtime and drive technical changes to enhance system reliability. Working with complex optomechanical systems, this role will combine diagnosis of faults with systems-level thinking and collaborative problem solving across hardware and software teams.
What you'll be responsible for:
As a Quantum Systems Scientist, you will play a critical role in ensuring the continuous operation and performance of our trapped-ion quantum systems. Your primary focus will be to maximise system uptime by enhancing diagnostic capabilities, identifying root causes of downtime and working collaboratively across engineering teams to develop robust, preventative solutions. You will be deeply involved in system-level analysis, building tools and dashboards to surface key performance indicators and helping shape the procedures and infrastructure that support our growing number of quantum systems. This is a hands-on, systems-oriented role that combines technical rigour with operational ownership.
Key responsibilities include:
- System diagnostics and monitoring - Expand and refine hardware and software diagnostics; log and visualise key parameters; implement sensors and build dashboards to enable rapid fault-finding.
- Downtime analysis and resolution - Analyse performance data to identify system bottlenecks or weak points; lead cross-functional efforts to design and implement robust engineering fixes.
- Preventative and reactive maintenance - Own and schedule maintenance plans; support and mentor technicians; debug complex system issues as they arise.
- Process and tooling improvement - Improve documentation, procedures and training for system maintenance and upgrades, including trap changes and routine operations.
- System design - Bring reliability to the core of future system designs, addressing current problems with engineering solutions.
We are looking for a high-performing systems scientist with hands-on experience in the design, build and operation of complex cold-atom experiments. You’ll have worked extensively with hardware systems in a lab setting, ideally including ion traps, optical clocks, or ultra-cold atom setups. You'll also have a deep understanding of free-space optics. This is a highly collaborative role, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both engineers and technicians to improve system performance and reliability.
Essential experience and attributes:
- Proven track record designing, building and operating complex cold-atom systems (e.g. ion traps, ultra-cold atoms, optical clocks).
- Background in hardware-focused experimental physics, with expertise in free-space optics.
- PhD in a relevant discipline, ideally with post-doctoral experience in a high-performing research group.
- Strong communicator, able to collaborate across technical disciplines and coordinate with engineering and technician teams.
Desirable:
- Programming experience in Python or ARTIQ.
- Experience automating and monitoring lab systems.
- Potential to grow into a leadership role as the team scales.
Oxford Ionics is leading the way in quantum technology, and we need skilled, innovative individuals like you. We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career with a world-class team, business stock options, enhanced annual leave, flexible working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, and much more. Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing.
Oxford Ionics is committed to equal opportunity for all.