Director, Quantum Finance Engineering

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 seeking a Director, Engineering of Quantum Computing for Financial Applications and Algorithms to lead the design, development, and implementation of quantum solutions that address high-value use cases in the financial sector. The ideal candidate will bridge deep domain expertise in financial mathematics, quantitative modeling, and optimization with quantum algorithm design and near-term hardware capabilities.

This role is highly strategic and interdisciplinary. You will collaborate with IonQ’s hardware, software, and research teams to identify problems where quantum advantage is emerging, engage with global financial institutions to co-develop pilots, and contribute to the evolution of IonQ’s algorithmic and application roadmap. The position involves meeting with customers, academic collaborators, and internal teams across IonQ’s global ecosystem.

Responsibilities:

• Lead IonQ’s research and development initiatives in quantum algorithms for finance, including portfolio optimization, option pricing, risk modeling, fraud detection, and derivative valuation.
• Be an expert and team builder in the following areas: quantum information theory, high performance computing, circuit compilation and optimization, error correction and quantum software engineering, integrating these components to make quantum algorithms and applications for finance run on real quantum hardware today.
• Translate financial problem statements into quantum algorithmic frameworks suited for NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) devices and future fault-tolerant architectures.
• Collaborate with IonQ’s Quantum Solutions and Partnerships teams to define and execute industry pilots with major banks, hedge funds, and asset managers.
• Publish and present groundbreaking results at top-tier academic and industry venues, helping shape global thought leadership in quantum finance.
• Mentor and grow a high-performing interdisciplinary team of quantum scientists, financial engineers, and software developers.
• Partner with IonQ’s business and product teams to translate research outcomes into deployable, scalable commercial offerings.
• Represent IonQ in external collaborations with academic institutions, government agencies, and consortia focused on quantum advantage in finance.
• Travel 20–30% of the time to support customer engagements, research collaborations, and strategic partnership initiatives.

You’d be a good fit with:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Quantitative Finance, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in quantitative research, algorithm design, or computational finance, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Excellent knowledge and skills not only in quantum computing, but also in error correction, circuit compilation and optimization, high-performance computing, and quantum software engineering.
• Excellent knowledge and skills in quantum for AI/ML.
• Demonstrated expertise in quantum algorithms, optimization, or machine learning; familiarity with quantum programming frameworks (e.g., Qiskit, Cirq, IonQ SDK, Pennylane).
• Deep understanding of financial modeling, including stochastic calculus, numerical methods, and high-performance computing.
• Proven record of publishing or deploying innovative solutions in finance, operations research, or applied quantum computing.
• Exceptional communication skills, capable of engaging both technical and executive-level audiences.

You’d be a great fit with:

• Knowledge in quantitative research
• Experience with use cases typical of banks and hedge funds

Travel: Up to 30%