Senior R&D Scientist

ID Quantique (IDQ) as part of IONQ, is a global leader in quantum-safe communications and quantum detection systems. We provide solutions to protect governments, telecommunication infrastructures, and banking & financial institutions from the “harvest-now, decrypt-later” threat, delivering both terrestrial and space-based quantum-safe networks in live operation globally. Our Quantum Detection Systems push the limits of single-photon detection, powering breakthroughs in quantum communication, sensing, computing, and ultra-sensitive imaging in partnership with top researchers and tech innovators worldwide.

What to expect

To support the next phase of growth of its SNSPD platform, IDQ is looking for a Senior R&D Scientist to join its team in Geneva. This role targets a highly motivated PhD-level candidate with a strong background in experimental physics, optics, or engineering, and a drive to rethink and scale testing methodologies for advanced photonic devices. The position focuses on developing and implementing next-generation testing and metrology approaches to enable scalable, reliable, and high-throughput characterization of SNSPD technologies. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of device physics, optical testing, and system-level thinking, in close collaboration with R&D, engineering, and industrialization teams.

What you'll be doing

• Lead the development of advanced testing strategies for SNSPD devices, with a focus on scalability and throughput.
• Rethink and optimize existing characterization methodologies, including possibly the transition toward wafer-level testing approaches.
• Develop and operate optical and cryogenic measurement setups for device characterization.
• Analyse and interpret complex datasets to guide device design and process improvements while driving experimental investigations to understand performance limits and variability across devices and wafers.
• Collaborate closely with fabrication, packaging, and system teams to ensure test compatibility with manufacturing flows.
• Document methodologies, results, and best practices in a structured and transferable way.

What you'll bring

• Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
• 3+ years of experience in experimental physics or a related field.
• Strong foundation in hands-on experimental work or engineering.
• Proven experience testing and characterizing optical or photonic systems (e.g., optoelectronic devices, waveguides, or similar platforms).
• Solid understanding of measurement science and metrology principles, with experience designing or improving experimental setups.
• Strong data analysis skills, with the ability to extract meaningful insights from complex measurements.
• Ability to work autonomously while collaborating effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Fluent in English, with French considered a plus.

You'll be a great fit with

• A PhD or Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A strong hands-on background in optics or photonics experimental work.
• 5+ years of experience working in industry.

Benefits

• A role at one of the fastest growing and most exciting Quantum companies in the world.
• A competitive compensation scheme, benefits package and equity plan. All designed to reward excellence.
• Flexible work models that let you balance your life, your family, and your career.
• Ongoing training and development to keep your skills sharp and your growth on track.
• A career development plan within the IonQ group’s companies
• A dynamic, close-knit environment where you collaborate with a global team of experts.