Senior Researcher — Applied Quantum Fault Tolerance

Location: Cologne, Germany

26 Jan 2026

We are seeking an Applied Quantum Fault Tolerance Researcher to strengthen our efforts in bridging fault-tolerant theory with experimental realities. In this role, you will focus on circuit-level design, simulation, and optimization of fault-tolerant protocols under realistic noise models. Your work may include developing/applying noise simulation techniques, designing fault-tolerant circuitry tailored to near-term hardware constraints such as few-qubit or measurement-free architectures, and evaluating trade-offs between different implementations at the circuit level. A key aspect of the role may be integrating these approaches into modular architectures and ensuring compatibility with logical-qubit algorithms, with the aim of making error-corrected quantum computation practically feasible.

Company Overview

neQxt is a trailblazing company at the forefront of quantum computing technology. With decades of expertise in ion-trap technology, neQxt was founded at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany, emerging from the renowned research group of Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Schmidt-Kaler.

At neQxt, our theory team explores the principles that make scalable quantum computing possible. We study how fault tolerance can be realized under realistic conditions, designing circuits, developing simulation methods, and analyzing noise at the circuit level. A key part of our work is to understand trade-offs between different approaches and how they can be embedded into modular architectures. We aim to connect theoretical insights with practical feasibility, developing techniques that move fault tolerance closer to realization. By building tools, models, and architectures, we provide a bridge between abstract principles and the requirements of physical quantum processors. (To learn more, please also visit https://saschaheussen.neocities.org)

Position Overview

We are seeking an Applied Quantum Fault Tolerance Researcher to strengthen our efforts in bridging fault-tolerant theory with experimental realities. In this role, you will focus on circuit-level design, simulation, and optimization of fault-tolerant protocols under realistic noise models. Your work may include developing/applying noise simulation techniques, designing fault-tolerant circuitry tailored to near-term hardware constraints such as few-qubit or measurement-free architectures, and evaluating trade-offs between different implementations at the circuit level. A key aspect of the role may be integrating these approaches into modular architectures and ensuring compatibility with logical-qubit algorithms, with the aim of making error-corrected quantum computation practically feasible.

Qualifications

1. Education: A PhD in Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required. Specializations in quantum information, quantum error correction, or quantum circuit design are highly preferred.

2. Specializations: Expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Fault-tolerant circuit design and analysis
• Circuit-level noise modeling and simulation
• Software development for simulation of quantum systems
• Embedding and compilation of quantum circuits to hardware constraints

3. Experience:

• Early-Career Researchers: A strong background in quantum computing with exposure to error correction, noise models, and circuit simulation.
• Experienced Researchers: Demonstrated contributions to the design and evaluation of fault-tolerant circuits, simulation methods, or architectural studies, supported by publications or software projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research and development on the interface of theoretical and experimental aspects of quantum computing systems, with a focus on atomic architectures.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams towards developing quantum algorithms and designing fault-tolerant quantum hardware.
• Simulate, and test advanced quantum error correction schemes that are useful for practical fault-tolerant quantum computing both in simulation and on our ion-trap hardware.
• Drive innovation by staying informed on the latest advancements in the field and integrating them into ongoing projects.

Our Offer

• High-Impact Projects: Work on meaningful, transformative challenges that push the boundaries of quantum technology.
• Collaborative Environment: Join a team of passionate experts dedicated to advancing quantum computing through shared knowledge and mentorship. Publish and present our work at international workshops and conferences.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Enjoy a supportive and adaptable work environment designed to help you achieve your best results.
• Customer-Focused Impact: Collaborate on real-world applications, delivering tailored solutions to address industry and academic challenges.

Ideal Candidates

We are looking for individuals who are passionate about making fault-tolerant quantum computing practical, and who thrive on connecting theoretical insights with real-world experimental constraints. You should be motivated to design and simulate fault-tolerant circuits, develop innovative techniques for handling realistic noise, and evaluate different architectural approaches quantitatively. A strong interest in modular architectures, near-term feasibility, and the software tools that support these investigations will be highly valued. Whether you are early in your research career or bring years of experience, if you share our vision of turning fault tolerance into a working reality, we encourage you to apply.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your CV, a cover letter including your preferred starting date, and any relevant publications or project details. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled. Join us at neQxt and help shape the architectures and methods that will enable practical, fault-tolerant quantum computation.

Contact

Dr. Sascha Heußen

Hansaring 12, 50670 Cologne, Germany

s.heussen@neqxt.org