Staff Scientist / Senior Staff Scientist - Quantum Algorithms (Chemistry Focus)

Description

We are seeking a Staff Scientist / Senior Staff Scientist - Quantum Algorithms (Chemistry Focus). The successful candidate will specialize in developing quantum algorithms for molecular and materials chemistry simulations on near-term and future quantum computing hardware. This role involves collaborating with industrial clients and funding agencies to deliver end-to-end quantum solutions addressing real-world chemistry and physics challenges. Title and compensation will be based on qualifications, with the possibility to hire at the Senior Staff Scientist level for exceptional candidates.

Responsibilities

Role

For Staff Scientist:

• Drive research and development of quantum algorithms for simulating molecules and materials.
• Collaborate with industrial customers and funding agencies to design and implement end-to-end workflows for quantum solutions to real-world chemistry and physics problems.
• Seek early opportunities to demonstrate quantum advantage over the current state of the art.
• Engage directly with clients, communicating technical findings clearly.
• Work independently and collaboratively to deliver high-quality solutions.

Additional for Senior Staff Scientist:

• Lead and manage a team of scientists, ensuring technical excellence and timely delivery of project outcomes.
• Manage project budgets and coordinate with financial and legal teams.
• Identify and develop new projects through client engagement and proposal/grant writing.
• Expand the organization's project portfolio while maintaining high technical standards.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists in research and professional development

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Must Haves - Staff Scientist:

• Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Computational Condensed Matter Physics, Quantum Algorithms, or a similar field; or equivalent demonstrated research experience.
• One or more postdoctoral appointments or industry experience conducting independent research.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Proficiency in a modern programming language (ideally Python) and familiarity with quantum computing toolkits such as Qiskit, PennyLane, OpenFermion, or Cirq.
• Strong communication skills for client interaction.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Must Haves - Senior Staff Scientist

(includes Staff Scientist requirements plus):

• At least 4 additional years of post-Ph.D. independent research in industry or academia.
• Demonstrated experience managing or mentoring scientists.
• Experience writing grants or customer proposals.
• Ability to lead project from inception to delivery.

Preferred Requirements - Staff Scientist:

• Experience using Density Functional Theory (DFT) or advanced ab initio methods (e.g., DMRG, selected CI, Quantum Monte Carlo).
• Experience with condensed matter physics models (e.g., Fermi-Hubbard, Heisenberg).
• Interest or experience in quantum machine learning.

Preferred Requirements - Senior Staff Scientist

(includes Staff Scientist preferred requirements plus):

• Experience spanning both physics simulations and quantum machine learning.
• Prior work in a professional services environment.

Compensation

Base Salary:

• Staff Scientist: $140,000 - $200,000 per year

• Senior Staff Scientist: $160,000 - $220,000 per year

In addition to competitive base salaries, qualified candidates are eligible for participation in a corporate bonus program and equity.

Salary may vary by location. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by factors including job-related skills, competencies, experience, market demands, internal parity, and relevant education or training.

Benefits, PTO & Equity:

We are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Health Coverage: Company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision plans for you and your dependents.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Available for eligible plans.
• Disability Insurance: Company-paid long-term disability coverage.
• Basic Life Insurance: $50,000 company-paid coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to counseling, coaching, and life resources.
• Equity: Ownership in a growing startup.
• Retirement Plans: 401(k) with Traditional and Roth options.
• PTO: Discretionary unlimited PTO (we trust you to take the time you need).
• Holidays: 12 annual paid holidays.
• Parental Leave: 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Remote-First Environment: Work primarily remotely with flexibility and support to thrive, within the United States.

About You

About QC Ware

QC Ware is a quantum computing software company that builds quantum-inspired enterprise solutions and provides professional services to large enterprises. Our mission is to make quantum computing easily accessible to data scientists and deliver performance speed-ups on near-term hardware. Backed by one of the world's strongest teams of quantum algorithms scientists, QC Ware is headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, and works with leading global organizations.

An Important Note:

Don't meet every single requirement? At Promethium, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic team. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly align with every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might be exactly the person we're looking for to join this role or others.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the differences that make us stronger. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Difference makes us better. Join us.