Principal Researcher & Technical Program Manager - Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) & Secure Quantum Networking

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution. 

IonQ is hiring a Principal Researcher and Technical Program Manager to lead the technical strategy, research, and execution of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Secure Quantum Networking initiatives.This is a senior individual contributor role, equivalent to a Director, that demands both profound scientific expertise and comprehensive program leadership across hardware, software, and systems architecture.

The successful candidate will be a thought leader who defines IonQ’s technical roadmap for secure quantum communication systems. Key responsibilities include leading cross-functional research and engaging with global partners—including financial institutions, government agencies, and telecom providers—to move QKD technologies from prototype to real-world deployment.

Ultimately, you will shape IonQ’s vision for secure quantum infrastructure, synthesizing expertise from quantum physics, cryptography, and systems engineering to deliver scalable, practical solutions.

Responsibilities:

• Define and own IonQ’s QKD and Secure Quantum Networking strategy, setting the long-term technical vision and roadmap in alignment with research and product priorities.
• Lead multidisciplinary research and engineering initiatives, coordinating efforts across quantum hardware, control systems, networking protocols, and cryptographic software.
• Architect and validate QKD systems, including entanglement-based and prepare-and-measure schemes, integration with classical networks, and hybrid quantum-classical key management frameworks.
• Collaborate with government, defense, and financial partners to design and execute pilot deployments demonstrating secure quantum communication use cases.
• Serve as principal investigator for funded programs, managing deliverables, timelines, and technical milestones across IonQ’s global research ecosystem.
• Guide technical program execution, ensuring scientific breakthroughs translate into deployable, standards-compliant systems.
• Represent IonQ in standards bodies, policy forums, and consortia, influencing the evolution of QKD and quantum network interoperability standards.
• Publish and present research outcomes in leading journals and conferences, establishing IonQ’s leadership in quantum-safe communications.
• Mentor senior scientists and engineers, offering technical guidance in quantum optics, cryptography, and network architecture.
• Advise executive leadership on strategic investments, partnerships, and technology readiness for commercial quantum security solutions.

You’d be a good fit with: 

• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with specialization in Quantum Communication, Photonics, or Cryptography.
• 18+ years of research or technical program experience in quantum communication, network systems, or applied cryptography.
• Proven expertise in QKD protocols (BB84, E91, CV-QKD, entanglement-based systems) and quantum network architectures.
• Deep knowledge of quantum optics, entanglement distribution, and photonic integration.
• Hands-on experience with quantum hardware and control systems, including photon sources, detectors, and synchronization.
• Familiarity with post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and hybrid cryptographic integration.
• Strong understanding of program management in a research environment, including proposal development, milestones tracking, and stakeholder communication.
• Excellent communication and influence skills — able to translate deep technical insights into actionable strategy for internal and external audiences.
  
  

You’d be a great fit with: 

• Prior experience leading national or international QKD programs or serving as technical lead on DARPA, NSF, or DOE-funded projects.
• Participation in ETSI, ITU-T, or NIST quantum communication working groups.
• Experience collaborating with telecom providers, defense agencies, or financial institutions on secure quantum communication pilots.
• Demonstrated record of patents, publications, and technology transfer in quantum communication or secure networking.

Location: This position can work onsite or hybrid from one o