Quantum Computing Hardware Research Specialist

Company Description

At Western Digital, we envision driving global innovation and redefining technology to achieve what once seemed impossible. With a history of empowering extraordinary accomplishments, we have been instrumental in groundbreaking technologies that helped facilitate manned missions to the moon.

As a vital partner to some of the largest and fastest-growing organizations worldwide, Western Digital is at the forefront of technological advancements—enabling state-of-the-art gaming, enhancing public safety through smarter cities, and powering the infrastructures of major corporations in the cloud sector.

This opportunity is within the Western Digital Research Organization, which comprises nearly 100 scientists holding PhDs in fields such as Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Materials Science, dedicated to the research and development of innovative future technologies.

Job Description

We are looking for a passionate and skilled researcher to lead pioneering projects in quantum computing with a focus on designing devices and low-temperature characterization of superconducting qubits. You will be instrumental in creating novel device designs and RF metrology technologies aimed at addressing critical challenges, particularly the enhancement and uniformity of qubit coherence times. Successful candidates will demonstrate a proactive approach in integrating various design, RF characterization, and low-temperature metrology tasks as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Initiate and manage research projects related to quantum computing, including superconducting qubit design, packaging, and low-temperature RF metrology.

• Work collaboratively with product teams to overcome challenges and develop cutting-edge solutions.

• Stay updated on industry and academic advancements, contributing to publications and attending conferences.

• Prepare and deliver comprehensive reports and visual aids to share findings, trends, and actionable insights with stakeholders across all levels.

• Exhibit strong self-motivation as a problem solver, capable of thriving in dynamic environments and pursuing fundamental research independently, including publishing scholarly papers.

• Demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the aptitude to convey complex information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Apply analytical skills to swiftly identify and tackle challenges beyond immediate areas of expertise.

Qualifications

Required:

• A Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.

• Hands-on experience in device nanofabrication, packaging, and low-temperature characterization of superconducting qubit devices, alongside familiarity with room temperature characterization.

• Proficiency in understanding and simulating RF measurements for qubit devices.

• Experience with diverse device systems and materials characterization, as well as electronic and optical device characterization.

• Proficient in various programming languages, such as Python, Rust, TCL, or C, with the capability to select an appropriate language for the task, and an eagerness to learn about FPGA-based microcontrollers.

• Familiarity with the characterization of superconducting qubit devices from graduate studies.

Additional Information

Western Digital is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on characteristics such as race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, and more. We promote an inclusive environment where every individual can grow through respect and contribution.

We strive to offer opportunities for applicants with disabilities. Please contact us to inform us about your accommodation needs regarding the application process.

We anticipate the application deadline will be 01/14/2025, but we reserve the right to close the application process earlier if a suitable candidate is hired before that date. If no candidate is selected by the deadline, this posting will be updated with a new deadline.

Compensation & Benefits Details

• Compensation may depend on various factors such as education, skills, experience, performance, and geographic location.

• The provided salary range reflects potential compensation at the time of posting, and it may be adjusted in the future.

• Eligible positions may receive overtime pay and bonuses based on performance as per company policies.

• We offer a comprehensive benefits package including paid vacation, medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) plans, and various voluntary benefits.

Notice To Candidates: Western Digital will never ask for payment as a condition for applying or receiving an offer of employment. Please report any such requests immediately.