Senior Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics (Neutral-Atom Quantum Computing) at Atom Computing, Berkeley
Job Description
This senior quantum theorist job in atomic physics is at Atom Computing in Berkeley, California. You will model and improve neutral-atom quantum computers built from arrays of optically trapped atoms. You will also help set the theory team’s direction.
At a glance
- Position: Senior Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus, full time
- Where: Berkeley, California, USA, on site
- Team: Quantum Theory, Applications & Theory department
- Pay: US$185,000 to US$210,000 a year base, plus annual bonus and equity
- Posted: 29 September 2026
- Apply: open until filled (re-checked 13 November 2026)
About the neutral-atom quantum theory role
- Lead theory and computing projects that help understand and build neutral-atom quantum computers
- Lead the design of the atomic physics simulation software
- Propose new research directions, tools and methods, including AI-assisted ones
- Guide the Quantum Engineering, QEC Theory and AMO Theory teams: model experiments, build hardware noise models and inform system design
- Mentor junior AMO theorists and set good working practice
- Write clean, tested and documented code, preferably in Python, Julia or C++
You will report to the Quantum Theory Manager. The team includes experts in atomic physics and quantum error correction.
Why this role matters
Neutral atoms are one of the leading ways to build large quantum computers. Good noise models and calibration theory decide how fast the hardware improves. This senior role shapes that work and the people who do it.
What Atom Computing is looking for
- A PhD in physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science or a related field
- Four or more years of experience after the PhD, in research or the quantum industry
- Extensive experience with scientific, high-performance or quantum computing
- Deep knowledge of atomic, molecular and optical (AMO) physics
- A record of leading independent research, with strong publications
- Clear writing and speaking for both technical and non-technical people
- Modern software practice: version control, unit tests, continuous integration, documentation, and public code such as GitHub
Nice to have
- Experience working with or modelling Rydberg atoms
- Experience with, or strong interest in, AI tools such as LLMs or ML-based modelling to speed up research
Pay and location
The posting gives a base salary range of US$185,000 to US$210,000 a year, depending on experience. It adds an annual bonus and company equity. Benefits include health cover and a 401(k) match. The role is on site in Berkeley. The posting says nothing about visa sponsorship, so ask the company if you need it.
How to apply
Apply through the official Atom Computing job posting. Atom Computing’s posting does not give a closing date, so the role is open until filled; ResearchJobs.in will re-check this listing on 13 November 2026. Check the posting for location and work-authorisation details before you apply.
See all our quantum technology jobs, or browse more research jobs on ResearchJobs.in.
Hiring institution: Atom Computing
Official advertisement: jobs.lever.co
How to prepare for this application
- Revise Rydberg physics: blockade, van der Waals interactions and the main error sources in two-qubit gates
- Prepare a short talk on a noise model or simulation you built and what it changed in an experiment
- Bring public code that shows tests and documentation
- Read recent Atom Computing papers and announcements on its neutral-atom systems
- Think of one way AI tools could speed up AMO theory work, and be ready to discuss it
About Atom Computing
Atom Computing is a US quantum computing company. It builds quantum computers from arrays of neutral atoms held in place by laser light. It has offices in Berkeley, California, and Boulder, Colorado.
