Research Scientist, Materials Team, AWS Center for Quantum Computing

Quantum Research Scientist

The Amazon Web Services (AWS) Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians on a mission to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer. You will be joining a team located in Pasadena, CA that conducts materials research to improve the performance of superconducting quantum processors. We seek a Quantum Research Scientist to investigate how material defects affect qubit performance. In this role, you will combine expertise in numerical simulations and materials characterization to study materials loss mechanisms such as two-level systems, quasiparticles, vortices, etc.

Key job responsibilities:

• Provide subject matter expertise on integrated experimental and computational studies of materials defects
• Develop and use computational tools for large-scale simulations of disordered structures
• Develop and implement multi-technique materials characterization workflows for thin films and devices, with a focus on the surfaces and interfaces
• Identify material properties that can be a reliable proxy for the performance of superconducting resonators and qubits
• Communicate findings to teammates, the broader CQC team and, when appropriate, publish findings in scientific journals

A day in the life:

At the AWS CQC, we understand that developing quantum computing technology is a marathon, not a sprint. The work/life integration within our team encourages a culture where employees work hard and also have ownership over their downtime. We are committed to the growth and development of every employee at the AWS CQC, and that includes our research scientists. You will receive management and mentorship from within the team that is geared toward career growth, and also have the opportunity to participate in Amazon's mentorship programs for scientists and engineers. Working closely with other quantum research scientists in other disciplines like design, measurement and cryogenic hardware will provide opportunities to dive deep into an education on quantum computing.

About the team:

Our team contributes to the fabrication of processors and other hardware that enable quantum computing technologies. Doing that necessitates the development of materials with tailored properties for superconducting circuits. Research Scientists and Engineers on the Materials team operate deposition and characterization systems in order to develop and optimize thin film processes for use in these devices. They work alongside other Research Scientists and Engineers to help deliver the fabricated devices for quantum computing experiments.

Export Control Requirement:

Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be either a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be able to obtain a U.S export license. If you are unsure if you meet these requirements, please apply and Amazon will review your application for eligibility.

Diverse Experiences:

AWS values diverse experiences. Even if you do not meet all of the preferred qualifications and skills listed in the job description, we encourage candidates to apply. If your career is just starting, hasn't followed a traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, don't let it stop you from applying.

Why AWS?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world's most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud platform. We pioneered cloud computing and never stopped innovating that's why customers from the most successful startups to Global 500 companies trust our robust suite of products and services to power their businesses.

Inclusive Team Culture:

AWS values curiosity and connection. Our employee-led and company-sponsored affinity groups promote inclusion and empower our people to take pride in what makes us unique. Our inclusion events foster stronger, more collaborative teams. Our continual innovation is fueled by the bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and passionate voices our teams bring to everything we do.

Mentorship & Career Growth:

We're continuously raising our performance bar as we strive to become Earth's Best Employer. That's why you'll find endless knowledge-sharing, mentorship and other career-advancing resources here to help you develop into a better-rounded professional.

Work/Life Balance:

We value work-life harmony. Achieving success at work should never come at the expense of sacrifices at home, which is why we strive for flexibility as part of our working culture. When we feel supported in the workplace and at home, there's nothing we can't achieve.