Staff Research Scientist – Superconducting Device Theory at IBM, Yorktown Heights

IBM Research has spent over a decade mapping the path from experimental superconducting qubits to fault-tolerant quantum computers. The next leap demands not just more qubits, but deeper theoretical understanding of how these devices behave as systems scale. That is where the Superconducting Device Theory - Staff Research Scientistrole comes in. Based at IBM's Yorktown Heights, NY research facility, this full-time position sits at the intersection of abstract quantum modeling and hands-on experimental collaboration. Posted on September 30, 2026, it carries a verified annual salary ofUSD 198.000-268.000, reflecting the senior-level expertise the role demands. The application window closes onNovember 30, 2026 .What the Role Involves IBM Research serves as the innovation engine of the company - advancing AI, hybrid cloud, and quantum computing in parallel. As a Staff Research Scientist in Superconducting Qubit Theory, you will build the theoretical models and simulations that directly shape IBM Quantum processor design and operations. Your core responsibilities span several advanced domains: Apply techniques such as black-box quantization, network synthesis, and matrix product states to model novel superconducting qubit devices. Identify and characterize emerging error mechanisms that threaten processor fidelity. Simulate increasingly large and complex multi-qubit systems to uncover the physical processes currently limiting device performance. Work hand-in-hand with experimental teams, connecting theoretical predictions with laboratory measurements to refine qubit designs and guide next-generation hardware.