Senior Quantum Error Correction (QEC) Developer

Department: Directed Research Lab

Location: British Columbia, Canada (Hybrid)

Compensation: CA$150,000 - CA$201,000 / year

Description Quantum Error Correction Researchers at Photonic are part of the Fault-Tolerance team, developing cutting-edge error correction and logical operation techniques for an entanglement-first, distributed fault-tolerant quantum computer. In this role, you will focus on the development of novel methods for performing logical operations in advanced quantum error-correcting codes and mapping those methods onto Photonic's unique hardware architecture.

Your work will sit at the intersection of mathematics, quantum information theory, and hardware-aware system design. By developing new logical gate constructions, lattice surgery protocols, and structure-aware representations of quantum error-correcting codes, you will directly influence both the performance and scalability of Photonic's logical qubit platforms. You will work closely with high-performing teams of scientists, engineers, and compiler developers on a range of topics spanning quantum error correction, fault-tolerant architecture, and quantum compilation. You enjoy the thrill of learning new theory and new science, while bringing your deep mathematical expertise, open mind, and creativity to tackle key challenges as we build the world's first truly scalable quantum computing system.

About The Role

• Develop fault-tolerant logical operations for quantum LDPC codes and other code families relevant to Photonic's architecture, using techniques such as homomorphic measurements, and generalized lattice surgery
• Produce logical primitives (e.g., logical Pauli measurements, entangling gates, magic state injection) for various code families, suitable for integration into the quantum compiler stack
• Analyze and optimize the resource requirements of proposed logical operation schemes, including ancilla qubits, circuit depth/time steps, and magic state factory requirements
• Develop and validate decoding strategies compatible with proposed logical operations
• Leverage the theory of covering spaces, chain complexes, and homological algebra to construct measurement protocols for general CSS and LDPC codes
• Characterize the fault-tolerance properties (threshold, distance preservation, single-shot capability) of proposed schemes through rigorous analysis and numerical simulation
• Collaborate with the compiler team to ensure logical primitives are compatible with the quantum compilation pipeline and can be efficiently scheduled
• Collaborate with hardware, systems, compilers, and software teams to ensure logical operation designs align with hardware constraints, compiler interfaces, and system-level requirements
• Translate theoretical results into engineering specifications and simulation-ready implementations

About You

• An advanced degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) in Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, or a closely related field with a focus on quantum error correction, fault-tolerant quantum computing, or topological quantum codes

• A strong mathematical background, in one or more of the following areas:

• Linear algebra

• Representation theory

• Group theory

• Graph theory

• Algebraic topology

• Demonstrated expertise in one or more of: homomorphic/homological measurements, lattice surgery, code surgery, transversal gates, or magic state distillation

• Experience with stabilizer formalism and its generalizations, CSS codes, surface codes, and/or quantum LDPC codes

• Proficiency in Python and/or other modern programming languages for simulation and prototyping

• Experience with QEC simulation tools (e.g., Stim, Monte Carlo methods) is considered an asset

• Demonstrated ability to creatively solve problems, prioritize, and manage simultaneous tasks

• Outstanding teamwork and communication skills, and the ability to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries in a product-driven environment

• Ability to move fluidly between abstract mathematical reasoning and concrete algorithmic or system-level implementations

• Experience building products in a commercial environment is a strong asset

• Bonus: post-doctoral or industry research experience in quantum error correction and/or fault-tolerant logical operations

Please include a cover letter with your resume (in one file) describing how you would be a great fit at Photonic and what attributes you could bring to our growing team. WHY YOU SHOULD WORK WITH US

• Work closely with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies to drive breakthroughs that redefine computing
• Enjoy a fast-paced and fun environment where you can try new things while solving innovative challenges every day
• Inclusive company culture that values collaboration
• Regular social events and fun activities keep our global team connected
• Competitive compensation package including base salary, stock options, and relocation assistance for global talent
• Comprehensive benefits including extended health, dental, life, long term disability, an employee assistance program, parental leave top-ups, and a flexible spending account

*The description above is what we think an ideal candidate would look like for this role. At Photonic, we understand that everyone has a different work and life journey. If you feel your experience is close to what we've described, but you might not meet all the requirements, please still apply!

All roles listed are for current vacancies. While artificial intelligence (AI) tools may be used to assist in reviewing applicant profiles, they do not determine candidate outcomes. Our hiring decisions are made by people, not algorithms. We are committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We embrace and encourage our employees’ differences, knowing that these very differences inspire innovation and build better teams. If there are any accommodations our team can make throughout our hiring process, please let us know.*