Join Amazon Web Services (AWS) Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) - Quantum Research Scientist Position

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is on a mission to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer. Our multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians in Pasadena, CA, conducts cutting-edge materials research to improve the performance of quantum processors. We are looking for a Quantum Research Scientist who will contribute their expertise in materials characterization to optimize superconducting quantum devices.

Role and Responsibilities

As a Quantum Research Scientist at AWS, you will:

• Conduct experimental studies on superconducting, semiconducting, and dielectric thin films.
• Develop and implement materials characterization workflows focusing on surfaces and interfaces of thin films and devices.
• Collaborate with the Materials team to optimize thin film properties and surface chemistry for device performance improvement.
• Identify material properties (chemical, structural, electronic, electrical) that serve as performance proxies for superconducting qubits and microwave resonators.
• Communicate findings to teammates and the broader CQC community, and publish in scientific journals when appropriate.

A Day in the Life

At AWS Utility Computing (UC), we innovate relentlessly, delivering foundational services like Amazon S3 and Amazon EC2, along with pioneering new features that set us apart. You'll support the development and management of a range of AWS services, from Compute, Database, and Storage to IoT, Platform, and Productivity Apps, including specialized security solutions for our cloud services.

Diverse Experiences

We value diverse experiences. Even if you don't meet every qualification, we encourage you to apply. Whether your career is just beginning, has taken a non-traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, we welcome your application.

Why AWS?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world's most comprehensive and widely adopted cloud platform. We lead the cloud computing revolution and continuously innovate, which is why businesses from startups to Global 500 companies trust our extensive suite of products and services.

Inclusive Team Culture

AWS fosters a culture of curiosity and learning. Our employee-led affinity groups promote inclusion and encourage us to celebrate our differences. Events like CORE (Conversations on Race and Ethnicity) and AmazeCon (gender diversity) inspire us to embrace our unique identities.

Mentorship & Career Growth

We aim to be Earth’s Best Employer, providing endless opportunities for knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and career advancement to help you grow into a well-rounded professional.

Work/Life Balance

We believe in work-life harmony. Success at work shouldn't require sacrifices at home. Our flexible work culture ensures that you feel supported both in the workplace and at home, enabling you to achieve greatness in the cloud.

Hybrid Work Model

We offer flexibility with options to work in the office every day or in a hybrid model near one of our U.S. Amazon offices, fostering both uninterrupted focus time and valuable in-person collaboration.

About the Team

The AWS Center for Quantum Computing team contributes to developing processors and hardware for quantum computing technologies. Our Research Scientists and Engineers work on optimizing thin film processes to advance superconducting circuits for high-performance quantum devices.

Location

We are open to hiring candidates to work out of our Pasadena, CA, USA location.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in materials science, physics, applied physics, or related field in science or engineering.
• Proven track record of impactful work in materials characterization.
• Expertise in XPS, TEM, and at least two of the following techniques: XRD, EELS, nano IR, SIMS, AFM, SEM, FIB, RBS, PPMS.
• Experience optimizing product performance through materials characterization.
• Proficiency in scientific programming (Python, Julia, MATLAB, Mathematica).

Preferred Qualifications

• Research experience with superconducting materials.
• Familiarity with superconducting circuits for quantum computing.
• Experience with designing or maintaining characterization equipment.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative and inclusive environment.

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