Senior Quantum Physicist - Quantum Sensing in Space

Infleqtion is a global quantum technology company solving the world’s most challenging problems. The company harnesses quantum mechanics to build and integrate quantum computers, sensors, and networks. From fundamental physics to leading edge commercial products, Infleqtion enables “quantum everywhere” through our ecosystem of devices and platforms. 

Location 

Infleqtion has 6 office locations, operating out of Boulder/Louisville, CO; Madison, WI; Chicago, IL; Oxford, UK; and Melbourne, AU. This position is a full-time, hybrid position which will be located in our Louisville, CO office. 

Position Summary 

We are seeking a Senior Quantum Physicist to join our Emerging Technology team. This position will, at least initially, be in support of a technology demonstration mission in collaboration with NASA JPL/Goddard that will demonstrate a first-of-its-kind quantum gravity gradient (QGG) sensor on a dedicated satellite. Future opportunities and activities will include proposal writing, acting as principal investigator for government or internal programs, and contributing to the technical and product roadmaps associated with quantum inertial sensors based on atom interferometry. 

The ideal candidate has experience modeling, designing, building, and validating novel precision-measurement experiments or demonstrations of quantum sensing technologies. Specifically, experience in atom interferometry and inertial/gravitational sensing would be ideal. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Participates in and/or leads research and development projects including, but not limited to, optical lattice, vapor cells, laser systems, laser frequency stabilization, and quantum sensing systems. 

• Leverages physics expertise to inform technology and product roadmaps for inertial and gravitational sensing applications 

• Proposal writing, resource estimation and identification to determine program/project scope and execution 

• Support business development, customer conversations and negotiations 

• Engage with the larger physics and engineering community at Infleqtion 

• Coordinate across multi-disciplinary teams (physics, engineering, optical, thermal, systems, manufacturing, integration/test, and company leadership). 

• Help transition technologies based on ultracold atoms from R&D efforts to more robust engineered devices and ultimately deployed products 

About the Team 

You’ll join a passionate and experienced team developing one of the world's first space-deployable quantum gravity sensors. This effort is foundational to future navigation, earth science, and resource exploration missions. 

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements 

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license 

Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment and around technical equipment including computers and lasers.  Able to sit, stand, bend, lift and carry up to 40 pounds without assistance.  Able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in-person).  Any required Personal Protective Equipment will be provided and must be properly used in accordance with company requirements. 

Travel 

Up to 10% travel may be required 

Minimum Qualifications 

• PhD in atomic, molecular, and optical physics.  

• Experience designing and integrating complex hardware and software into systems  

• Practical experience with atom-based inertial and/or gravitational sensors  

• Experience with simulating quantum sensors  

• Experience with embedded system development in C/C++ or Python  

• Demonstrated ability to effectively share information with technical and non-technical staff  

• Demonstrated ability to learn new and complex topics quickly 

• Excellent technical communication, organizational, and documentation skills. 

• Familiarity with physics experiment control systems, including hardware/electronics and software development and operation (e.g. python, C, labview, etc.) 

• Ability to contribute to and lead complex projects and work independently while collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams. 

• This role requires that you do not require visa sponsorship or a work visa transfer. This position will require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience with quantum systems and atom interferometry platforms 

• 4+ years of post-PhD experience in postdoc or quantum-related industries 

• Familiarity with materials selection for outgassing, radiation shielding, magnetic shielding, etc. 

• Experience with UHV and/or cryogenic systems 

• Hands-on experience with UHV chamber design and testing 

• Experience with laser systems, including laser frequency combs, electro-optic elements and optical waveguides, diode lasers and optical cavities 

The targeted salary range for this role is $120,000 to $150,000 on an annualized basis plus eligibility to participate in our annual incentive plan.

In addition to your base compensation, we offer a generous Total Rewards program which includes:

• 100% company paid Employee coverage for Medical, Dental, Vision, and Short/Long Term Disability insurance programs
• Employer funded Health Savings Account
• Unlimited Paid Time Off
• 401(k) Matching Programs
• Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance
• Flexible Healthcare Savings Account
• Paid FMLA Leave
• Paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
• Employer Assistance Program
• Student Loan Repayment

Equal Opportunity

Here you have freedom to embrace your whole self: who you love, your gender identity and expression, skin color, age, appearance, disability, neurodiversity, DNA, military/veteran status, citizenship, and other factors that make up who you are. Your uniqueness is valued, welcomed, and appreciated here. We are dedicated to providing a positive workplace and base all employment decisions on your qualifications, performance, merits, as well as business needs. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Contact Information

If this opportunity interests you and you fit the job description, please submit an application. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to disability, please feel free to contact us at [email protected].