Quantum Error Correction Theory Engineer

We are looking for aQuantum Error Correction Theory Engineer . In this role, you turn quantum error correction theory into practical building blocks for fault-tolerant quantum computing. You will help design, analyze, and implement error‑correcting codes and decoding algorithms that pave the way for scalable fault‑tolerant quantum computing architectures. Your work connects theory with hardware reality and plays a central role in shaping how our quantum processors scale reliably. The position is based in Munich, Germany.

What will I be doing?

• Develop and analyze quantum error‑correcting codes with realistic connectivity and hardware constraints
• Design and evaluate fault‑tolerant operations, including multi‑qubit logical gate strategies such as lattice surgery
• Contribute to fault‑tolerant quantum algorithms and algorithm‑specific error correction approaches
• Design, benchmark, and improve decoding algorithms, including: graph‑based decoders (belief propagation, union‑find, minimum‑weight perfect matching) and machine‑learning‑based decoding approaches
• Implement and optimize decoding algorithms in Python, C/C++, or Rust, with potential deployment on FPGA platforms
• Perform resource estimation and scalability analysis for error‑corrected architectures
• Collaborate closely with hardware, control, and software teams to ensure alignment between error correction strategies and real QPU capabilities
• Publish and present high‑impact research results in leading scientific journals and conferences
• Maintain high internal and external code quality standards, ensuring scalability and long‑term maintainability

Please find examples of our research via the following links:

• Logical Operators and Derived Automorphisms of Tile Codes
• Tile Codes: High‑Efficiency Quantum Codes on a Lattice with Boundary
• Logical Operators and Fold‑Transversal Gates of Bivariate Bicycle Codes
• Quantum error detection in qubit‑resonator star architecture
• Near‑optimal decoding algorithm for color codes using Population Annealing
• Small Quantum Codes from Algebraic Extensions of Generalized Bicycle Codes

What skills do I need?

• Ph.D. in theoretical physics, computer science, applied mathematics, or a similar field
• Deep knowledge of quantum error‑correcting codes, fault‑tolerant quantum algorithms, or decoding algorithms
• At least 2 years of professional experience developing scientific software in Python, C/C++, or Rust
• A strong publication record, including at least two scientific papers in high‑impact journals
• Ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts across interdisciplinary teams
• A collaborative mindset and comfort working in a team‑oriented research and engineering environment
• At least 3 years of experience in one or more of the following:
• Designing quantum error‑correcting codes under connectivity constraints
• Multi‑qubit logical gate implementations (e.g., lattice surgery)
• Fault‑tolerant quantum algorithms
• Algorithm‑specific error correction (e.g., fermionic simulations)
• Decoding algorithms (belief propagation, union‑find, MWPM)
• Machine‑learning‑based decoding methods
• FPGA‑based implementation of decoding algorithms

What skills are nice to have?

• Knowledge of the theory of superconducting qubits
• Experience working closely with hardware or experimental quantum teams
• A drive to keep your expertise current and continuously expand your knowledge
• The ability to create elegant, structured solutions in complex theoretical and technical landscapes
• Strong ownership of code quality, testing, and documentation
• An understanding of how to balance immediate project goals with long‑term scalability and extensibility

What can I expect from IQM?

• An opportunity to work with a passionate and diverse team on an important mission
• A unique opportunity to make a real impact on the future of quantum
• Growth and progress in a creative and open start‑up environment