Intern - Optimization for cat qubits simulation (September 2025)

Alice & Bob is developing the first universal, fault-tolerant quantum computer to solve the world’s hardest problems. The quantum computer we envision building is based on a new kind of superconducting qubit: the Schrödinger cat qubit. In comparison to other superconducting platforms, cat qubits have the astonishing ability to implement quantum error correction autonomously!
We are at the forefront of the quantum race, competing with tech giants such as Google or IBM. We are 100+ and counting, between physicists, PhDs, engineers and experienced business professionals, all united to reach our ambitious goal. Are you ready to take on unprecedented challenges and contribute to revolutionizing technology?Join us, and let's shape the future of quantum computing together!
About the role:Controlling supraconducting cat qubits requires a precise modelling of the underlying physics. Various methods have been developed in quantum physics in the past decades to address those challenges. The goal of this internship is to bridge these quantum physics techniques with advanced optimization methods, in order to significantly accelerate the simulation of Alice & Bob’s qubits. 
During this 4-6 month internship, you will review relevant literature on superconducting cat qubits and critically compare existing methods from quantum physics and optimization. Guided by researchers from both fields, you'll explore and propose new techniques for efficiently estimating quantum states, contributing directly to ongoing research efforts.

Responsibilities:

• Become familiar with the modelisation of cat qubits
• Understand precisely the interconnection between quantum physics and convex optimization
• Propose new approaches to estimate steady state of open quantum systems
• Implement and test your approach in a high-performance tensor library 

Requirements:

• Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in optimization or machine learning.
• Completed coursework in machine learning and/or optimization.
• You are curious about quantum dynamics and physical simulation (prior knowledge is a plus but not required).
• You are experienced in Python programming and numerical modeling, and you're familiar with a tensor library (PyTorch, Jax).
• Good communication skills in English.

We're also looking for:

• A curious, motivated, and proactive individual with a desire to contribute to cutting-edge research in a fast-paced environment.
• Prior experience in convex optimization.

Benefits:

• 1 day off per month
• Meal Vouchers with Swile
• 50% Navigo reimbursement

Recruitment Process:

• Hiring Manager Interview with Gaspard (45 min)
• Technical Interview/Presentation with the Team (60 min)
• Fit Interview (45 min)
• Reference Check

Research shows that women might feel hesitant to apply for this job if they don't match 100% of the job requirements listed. This list is a guide, and we'd love to receive your application even if you think you're only a partial match. We are looking to build teams that innovate, not just tick boxes on a job spec.
You will join of one of the most innovative startups in France at an early stage, to be part of a passionate and friendly team on its mission to build the first universal quantum computer!
We love to share and learn from one another, so you will be certain to innovate, develop new ideas, and have the space to grow.