Research Scientist, Optical Engineering Neutral Atoms, Quantum AI

As an organization, Google maintains a portfolio of research projects driven by fundamental research, new product innovation, product contribution and infrastructure goals, while providing individuals and teams the freedom to emphasize specific types of work. As a Research Scientist, you'll setup large-scale tests and deploy promising ideas quickly and broadly, managing deadlines and deliverables while applying the latest theories to develop new and improved products, processes, or technologies. From creating experiments and prototyping implementations to designing new architectures, our research scientists work on real-world problems that span the breadth of computer science, such as machine (and deep) learning, data mining, natural language processing, hardware and software performance analysis, improving compilers for mobile platforms, as well as core search and much more.

As a Research Scientist, you'll also actively contribute to the wider research community by sharing and publishing your findings, with ideas inspired by internal projects as well as from collaborations with research programs at partner universities and technical institutes all over the world.

The full potential of quantum computing will be unlocked with a computer capable of error-corrected computations. Google Quantum AI's mission is to build this computer and unlock solutions to classically intractable problems. Our roadmap is focused on advancing the capabilities of quantum computing and enabling meaningful applications.

Google Research is building the next generation of intelligent systems for all Google products. To achieve this, we’re working on projects that utilize the latest computer science techniques developed by skilled software developers and research scientists. Google Research teams collaborate closely with other teams across Google, maintaining the flexibility and versatility required to adapt new projects and foci that meet the demands of the world's fast-paced business needs.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $174,000-$252,000 + bonus + equity + benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Learn more about benefits at Google.

Responsibilities

• Design and test optical systems to enable precise neutral atom manipulation and addressing capabilities.
  
• Evaluate and mitigate risks associated with relevant emerging optical technologies.
• Establish rigorous methodologies for the characterization of optical performance and system tolerancing across various modules.
• Engineer modular optical systems to support effective scaling of quantum systems.
• Contribute to the scientific community through the publication and formal dissemination of research outcomes.

Minimum qualifications:

• PhD in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience in the design, implementation, and characterization of optical systems.
• One or more scientific contributions, including publications in peer-reviewed journals or presentations at quantum technology conferences.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience in the use of industry-standard optical and mechanical design software.
• Knowledge of fourier optics principles.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with hardware engineering teams on heterogeneous system integration.

The application window will be open until at least May 26, 2026. This opportunity will remain online based on business needs which may be before or after the specified date.