Lead Quantum Error Correction Researcher

Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Permanent | Hybrid

Salary: £72,000 to £140,000, DOE + Bonus + Benefits

The salary range for this role is broad, as we are able to consider varying levels of experience. Any offer made will carefully take into account level of experience (including relevant industry experience), transferable relevant skills and previous relevant achievements.

We will also consider part-time applications for this role. Please indicate your preferred working schedule in your cover letter.

About us

Riverlane’s mission is to master quantum error correction (QEC) and unlock a new age of human progress. From advances in material and climate science, to complex chemistry simulation for new drug design, quantum computers will help humanity solve some of its most important challenges. But without QEC, the industry’s defining technical challenge, such breakthroughs can never be achieved. Riverlane is the world leader in QEC technology. QEC is a complex problem that requires a range of skills, talent and passion.

Having raised more than $125M in funding to date to accelerate our cutting-edge R&D in quantum error correction (QEC), Riverlane partners with many of the world’s leading quantum hardware providers and government agencies to make fault-tolerant quantum computing a reality. We’re making remarkable progress and growing fast.

About the role

As a Lead Quantum Error Correction Researcher at Riverlane, you won’t just research quantum error correction - you’ll help us build it. Your work will help deliver the world’s first QEC stack and unlock useful, scalable quantum computing.

We have a fantastic opportunity to join one of Riverlane’s more science-focused quantum error correction teams, which works to enable large-scale error-corrected quantum computation. This world-class, highly collaborative team brings together mathematicians, physicists, computer scientists and software engineers, working side by side on a diverse portfolio of cutting-edge research projects. In this senior role, you will lead high-impact research projects and manage a small team within a larger, multidisciplinary group. You’ll balance deep, hands-on research with technical leadership, mentoring, and strategic direction.

What you will do

As a Lead QEC Researcher at Riverlane, your work will vary, but typical activities may include:

• Pushing the boundaries of quantum error correction (QEC) through hands-on, high-impact research, while coaching and levelling up researchers in your team.

• Owning and leading multi-person projects end to end, working closely with your team and cross-functional partners across Riverlane.

• Actively shaping the direction and priorities of QEC research in relevant areas as we scale our technology and roadmap.

• Translating cutting-edge research into outcomes that move the company forward, contributing directly to Riverlane’s goals and strategy.

• Line-managing, mentoring and supporting members of your team, helping them to grow and take on increasing responsibility.

• Building strong relationships with external partners, collaborators, and customers, including hardware partners across all qubit types.

• Helping define and win new projects by contributing to compelling proposals and funding opportunities.

• Sharing knowledge and collaborating across teams to rapidly advance our products.

• Writing and reviewing code for our internal and open-source codebases.

• Communicating results clearly and decisively through publications, talks, and presentations at leading conferences and workshops.

What we need

• PhD in mathematics, physics, computer science, or a related technical field (or equivalent professional experience)

• Proven ability to undertake high-quality theoretical work (for example, through publications)

• Experience driving the direction of scientific or technical research

• Experience leading projects involving multiple people

• A collaborative mindset with experience in guiding and mentoring less-experienced colleagues

• Working knowledge of QEC

• Ability to work effectively both independently, and as part of a team

• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to discuss complex ideas with a variety of audiences in a clear way

Even better if you have…

• Experience undertaking or leading QEC research, evidenced by scientific publications

• Knowledge of qLDPC codes

• Understanding of one or more qubit modalities

• Experience leading a group of researchers working across multiple projects, balancing competing priorities

• Knowledge of Python and/or C++

• A track record of winning contracts or grants

What can you expect from us

• A comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual bonus plan, private medical insurance, life insurance, and a contributory pension scheme

• Equity, so that our team can share in the long-term success of Riverlane

• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and enhanced family leave

• A diverse work environment that brings together experts in many fields (including software and hardware development, quantum information theory, physics and maths) and over 20 different nationalities

• A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and development, including a regular programme of learning events and training and conference budgets

How to apply

Please upload a CV and covering letter by clicking 'Apply'. Your covering letter should explain why you are applying for the job and what skills and experience you can bring to the role.

We review CVs as we receive them and interview as soon as we have applications that look like a good match. We do not use closing dates. So, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this role.

If you have any queries, please contact

Everyone is welcome at Riverlane. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from eligible and suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity/paternity.

Women and other underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a role unless they meet all or nearly all of the requirements. If this applies to you, we still encourage you to apply - you may be a great fit, even if you don’t meet every single qualification. We’d love to hear from you.

If you need any adjustments made to the application or selection process so you can do your best, please let us know. We will be happy to help.

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