Principal OR Sr. Principal Research Scientist - Quantum Information

The Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) Microelectronics and Device Applications (MDA) group pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines the leading edge of exotic new technologies, and drives advances in the sciences. One of our most challenging new fields is Transformational Computing, which combines the unique properties of superconductivity and quantum mechanics to develop radical new energy-efficient computing systems. Our team is chartered with providing the skills to transform computing beyond Moore’s Law, advancing development of computer architectures, processing/memory subsystems, and large-scale high-performance computing systems. You’ll work in a R&D environment alongside a broad array of scientists and engineers to make these processing solutions a reality and deliver remarkable new advantages to the warfighter.

We are seeking a Research Scientist – Quantum Information to join our team. The qualified candidate will become part of Northrop Grumman’s Microelectronics Center Hardware & Sciences team, which is focused on developing innovative next generation superconducting electronics (SCE) and advanced computing technologies. There are opportunities to contribute and lead in a variety of technical directions from that starting point, including device theory, QCVV, quantum algorithms, and all aspects of quantum computing hardware. 

As part of our group, you will work with a core team of scientists and engineers to make important contributions in the interest of our national defense and security. We are a collaborative and hard-working team that strives to foster a culture of belonging, mentorship, and personal growth.

This position requires full-time work onsite at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Aurora, CO.

This position can be filled at the Principal Research Scientist – Quantum Information level OR the Sr. Principal Research Scientist – Quantum Information level.  Qualifications for both are listed below:

Basic Qualifications for Principal Research Scientist – Quantum Information:

• Must have a Ph.D. in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a closely related technical discipline (or will complete by Fall 2025).
• Strong background in theoretical quantum mechanics and quantum information theory
• Familiarity with computational methods for analysis and simulation of quantum systems
• Programming experience in C++, Python, or MATLAB
• Proven skills at tackling/solving complex problems
• Ability to learn new topics quickly in a fast-paced environment
• Works well in a collaborative, diverse environment
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI with polygraph security clearance (US citizenship is a prerequisite)

Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Research Scientist – Quantum Information:

• Must have a Ph.D. in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a closely related technical discipline with 4 years of related experience.
• Strong background in theoretical quantum mechanics and quantum information theory
• Familiarity with computational methods for analysis and simulation of quantum systems
• Programming experience in C++, Python, or MATLAB
• Proven skills at tackling/solving complex problems
• Ability to learn new topics quickly in a fast-paced environment
• Works well in a collaborative, diverse environment
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI with polygraph security clearance (US citizenship is a prerequisite)

Preferred Qualifications for both Principal AND Sr. Principal Research Scientist – Quantum Information:

• Background in one or more of the following areas of mathematics:
  • Statistics and Optimization
  • Numerical Linear algebra (e.g. Tensor Network algorithms)
  • Group and Representation Theory
• Familiarity with quantum information, quantum error correction, and/or fault-tolerant quantum computation
• Familiarity with quantum characterization, verification, and validation protocols including randomized benchmarking and quantum state/process tomography
• Familiarity with quantum algorithms and/or theoretical computer science
• Experience modeling, designing and/or simulating superconducting qubits
• Experience with Mathematica
• Active TS/SCI with polygraph clearance.

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.