Research Scientist, Neutral Atoms, Quantum AI at Google
Boulder, CO
$147,000–$211,000from the description
Jul 17, 2026
Boulder, CO
Jul 21, 2026
What this job asks for AI summary
A research role focused on building hardware for a fault-tolerant quantum computer based on neutral atoms. Day-to-day work involves designing and implementing apparatus, developing error-tailored architectures, constructing error models for physical operations, and publishing findings. Suited to a physicist or engineer with hands-on neutral atom experiment experience who can bridge theoretical concepts and practical experimental implementation.
Senior level · Boulder, CO · Doctorate required · Full-time
Advertised as Mid, but the requirements read as Senior.
We read this from the posting text with AI. Skim the description below before ruling yourself out.
Why we read it this way (7)
This role is a physics/quantum hardware research position, not a standard computer/mathematical occupation — no SOC code in the allowed list maps cleanly to 'Research Scientist, Quantum Physics'. 15-2099 (Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other) is the closest available code; 15-1299 (Computer Occupations, All Other) is a plausible runner-up given the quantum computing context.
The PhD requirement is stated as 'PhD degree in Physics or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.' Because equivalent experience is explicitly accepted, the degree requirement is set to None per schema rules — however, in practice this role is almost universally filled by PhD holders.
The posting is framed as 'Mid' level by Google's internal leveling language ('Mid Experience driving progress…'), but the actual requirements — PhD, independent research agenda ownership, publication record, and deep experimental expertise — support a Senior classification.
Compensation is $147,000–$211,000/year base, plus a 15% bonus target and equity; the bonus and equity are noted here as they are material but cannot be represented in the comp fields.
Optical design software and mechanical design software appear only under Preferred qualifications, as does neutral atom experiment experience and knowledge of computer science.
The hard-gate skills are sparse: the JD firmly requires a PhD (or equivalent), at least one quantum-related publication, and the core experimental/hardware work on neutral-atom quantum computing and error correction implied by the role's responsibilities.
Ignored 2 non-technology phrase(s) as skills (responsibilities/concepts, not named tools): neutral atom quantum computing, neutral atom experiment design.
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