Quantum Scientist (Non-Gaussian Unit, PNRD Team)

About the role

{"id":1113121,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Job Description","value":"## About OptQC\nOptQC is a deep-tech startup spun out of the University of Tokyo, founded with the mission of achieving the social implementation and commercialization of \"optical quantum computers.\"\nWhile multiple modalities exist in the quantum computing landscape, we focus on the optical quantum approach. We are confident that this method is the most suitable for practical application and widespread adoption due to its inherent scalability and seamless integration with optical communications. Through continuous research and development, we aim to balance energy efficiency with high computing power, overcome the limits of human information processing, and contribute to a sustainable society.\n\n## Background\nAchieving error correction and non-linear operations in photonic quantum computers requires a special type of quantum light known as \"non-Gaussian states.\" Generating and measuring these states depends on superconducting detectors that can resolve photon numbers with high efficiency and accuracy. The PNRD team's mission is to accelerate the realization of fault-tolerant photonic quantum computers by developing superconducting single-photon and photon-number-resolving detectors, including SNSPDs and TESs, in-house. We are seeking individuals who will help us build OptQC's internal detector-development capabilities from the ground up.\n\n## Key Responsibilities\nThe successful candidate will develop superconducting single-photon and photon-number-resolving detectors for OptQC’s photonic quantum computing platform. Working across SNSPD and TES technologies, the role will connect device design and fabrication with cryogenic, electrical, and optical characterization. The candidate will design GDS layouts, coordinate fabrication with cleanrooms and external partners, develop cryogenic readout and characterization systems, and help establish OptQC’s internal detector-development capabilities. This is a hands-on, cross-disciplinary role spanning superconducting devices, cryogenics, electronics, optics, and microfabrication.\n\n- Design GDS layouts for detectors.\n- Coordinate fabrication, and wafer processing with cleanrooms and external partners.\n- Build and operate cryogenic optical and electrical test systems.\n- Integrate detector biasing, amplification, SQUID readout, time-tagging, and data-acquisition hardware.\n- Perform optical measurements using lasers, fiber components, polarization control, and fiber-splicing equipment.\n- Evaluate detection efficiency, dark-count rate, timing jitter, recovery time, polarization dependence, and photon-number resolution.\n- Develop Python tools for instrument control, measurement automation, and data analysis.\n- Document and communicate technical results.\n\n## The Role \u0026 Impact\nPhoton-number-resolving detectors are core devices of photonic quantum computers, underpinning the generation of non-Gaussian states and error correction operations. In this position, you will take detectors from design and fabrication through characterization and help establish OptQC's internal detector-development capabilities, so your results will directly shape the performance of our photonic quantum computers. We also welcome academic outreach, including publishing papers, presenting at international conferences, and acquiring patents.","selected":true},{"id":1113122,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Required Qualifications","value":"- Degree: M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Photonics, or a related field.\n- Hands-on experience with SNSPDs or TESs and a working understanding of both technologies.\n- Experience operating cryostats and performing low-noise cryogenic measurements.\n- Experience with detector readout electronics and data-acquisition systems.\n- Experience with GDS layout and cleanroom microfabrication.\n- Proficiency in Python for experimental automation and data analysis.\n- Strong troubleshooting, communication, and documentation skills.","selected":true},{"id":1113123,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Preferred Qualifications","value":"- Strong understanding of superconducting thin-film and nanoscale device physics.\n- Experience with thin-film metrology and characterization techniques such as XRD, AFM, SEM, TEM, STEM/EELS, profilometry, or ellipsometry.\n- Experience with low-temperature electrical characterization and superconducting transport measurements.\n- Experience with detector packaging, wire bonding.","selected":true},{"id":1113124,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Ideal Candidate Profile","value":"- Individuals who understand hardware from first principles and can navigate both technology and theory.\n- Individuals who possess deep expertise in their own field while maintaining a strong motivation to take on diverse challenges.\n- Individuals who are eager to co-create new value with a variety of internal and external stakeholders and organizations.","selected":true},{"id":1113125,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Salary","value":"13 million JPY or more (Determined based on experience and skills)","selected":true},{"id":1113126,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Location","value":["15th Floor, IT tower TOKYO, 3-28-13 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0021, Japan"],"selected":true},{"id":1113127,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Employment Type","value":"Full-time","selected":true},{"id":1113128,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Hiring Process","value":"- Document Screening *Please submit a publication list\n- Interview (2–3 rounds) *Includes a research / work presentation\n- Offer Meeting\n\n[Additional Information]\n- Interviews are generally conducted online; however, candidates will be required to visit our office at least once.\n - Please consult with us if this is difficult for you.\n - Transportation expenses will be reimbursed for candidates traveling from distant locations (subject to company regulations).\n- Reference checks may be requested during the selection process.\n- The selection process and the number of interview rounds are subject to change.","selected":true}

Source: OptQC's careers page via Html. Read by TQI on 1 Nov 2026.