Location: Zurich, SwitzerlandEmployment Type: Full-TimeDepartment: Quantum ArchitecturePosition OverviewWe are seeking a Quantum Error Correction (QEC) Theorist with deep expertise in fault-tolerant quantum computing and a strong understanding of trapped-ion systems or other atomic systems. The successful candidate will design, analyze, and optimize error correction protocols tailored to trapped-ion architectures, bridging theory and hardware implementation.You will collaborate closely with experimental physicists, control engineers, and quantum software teams to enable practical fault tolerance on near-term and scalable ion-trap platforms. You will also be expected to work with external partners and lead collaborations with academic and industrial teams.Key Responsibilities- Design and analyze quantum error correction codes suited for trapped-ion systems (e.g., surface codes, color codes, LDPC codes, bosonic codes).- Develop architecture-aware fault-tolerant schemes considering realistic noise models (dephasing, motional mode heating, crosstalk, gate infidelity, leakage).- Optimize syndrome extraction protocols using native trapped-ion gates- Model logical error rates under hardware-constrained connectivity in a 2D ion shuttling architecture.- Collaborate with experimental teams to validate QEC protocols on real hardware.- Contribute to threshold analysis, decoding strategy development, and resource estimation for large-scale algorithms.- Publish findings in leading journals and present at major conferences.Required Qualifications- Masters or PhD in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field.- Demonstrated expertise in quantum error correction and fault-tolerant quantum computing.- Strong analytical and numerical modelling skills.- Experience working with realistic noise models and hardware constraints.- Proficiency in Python and scientific computing tools (NumPy, SciPy, JAX, QuTip, STIM, or similar).Preferred Qualifications- Experience with trapped-ion quantum computing architectures.- Knowledge of decoder implementations (MWPM, belief propagation, neural decoders).- Familiarity with quantum software frameworks (e.g., Qiskit, Cirq, or hardware-specific SDKs).- Experience with architectural proposals of at least one of the major competing QC platforms, with preference for dynamically reconfigurable approaches.- Experience modelling Open Quantum Systems- Track record of publications in top-tier journalsWhat We Offer- Opportunity to define the fault-tolerance roadmap for a trapped-ion quantum platform.- Close collaboration between theory and experiment in a rapidly scaling quantum hardware program.- Access to cutting-edge ion-trap hardware that breaks away from the mainstream.- Competitive compensation and equity. Stock option plan that allows you to become a true shareholder in the company.- Flexible work environment (home office).- Be part of a dynamic team that operates on four core principles: Excellence, Reliability, Trust & Open Feedback.- Zurich constantly ranks at or near the top of most liveable cities in the world. Whether you like the arts, sports or nature, Zurich has it all on offer- 30 days of holiday.ImpactYour work will directly shape the path toward scalable, fault-tolerant trapped-ion quantum computing—transforming today’s high-fidelity devices into tomorrow’s logical quantum processors.To Apply:Please submit your CV and a cover letter.We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team.