Junior AMO Physicist in Kidlington, United Kingdom

ABOUT US

Infleqtion is a global quantum technology company solving the world’s most challenging problems. The company harnesses quantum mechanics to build and integrate quantum computers, sensors, and networks. From fundamental physics to leading edge commercial products, Infleqtion enables “quantum everywhere” through our ecosystem of devices and platforms. Our mission is to commercialise atom-based quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in performance and computing applications. 

LOCATION  

Infleqtion has offices in the USA, United Kingdom, and Australia. This is a full-time position split between our Kidlington, Oxford office and the National Quantum Computing Centre, Harwell. Work from home permitted up to 2 days per week based on business needs and manager approval.

POSITION SUMMARY 

This is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding recent MSc (or equivalent experience) in Physics, AMO Physics, Quantum Physics or a closely related discipline, to contribute to the development of next-generation neutral atom quantum computers. You will work at the forefront of quantum technology, helping to build experimental systems that push the limits of precision measurement, laser control and quantum engineering. 

Working alongside world-class physicists and engineers, you will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art quantum hardware, including laser-cooled atoms, ultra-high vacuum systems, precision optics and quantum control. From day one, you'll contribute to real quantum computing systems while receiving mentoring and increasing technical ownership as your experience grows. 

Whether you aspire to become a leading experimental physicist, develop breakthrough quantum technologies or help build commercially useful quantum computers, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact early in your career. 

Why Join Infleqtion? 

• Work on one of the world's most advanced neutral atom quantum computing platforms.

• Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge experimental quantum hardware from your first day.

• Learn from experienced scientists and engineers who are shaping the future of quantum technologies.

• See your work rapidly transition from laboratory experiments into commercial quantum computing systems.

• Develop expertise across AMO physics, lasers, optics, control systems and quantum engineering in a collaborative environment. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES   

Project Support   

• Build, operate and improve cutting-edge experimental quantum systems alongside experienced physicists. 

• Assist with the integration of optical, mechanical, electronic and software components into working quantum devices. 

• Perform precision experiments on laser-cooled atomic systems, analyse results and contribute to the development of next-generation quantum computing hardware. 

• Help characterise and optimise system performance through testing and troubleshooting. 

• Contribute to the maintenance, alignment and optimisation of laser systems and optical setups. 

• Assist with equipment installation, commissioning and laboratory organisation. 

• Document experimental procedures, results and technical findings. 

Team Collaboration   

• Work collaboratively with physicists, engineers and software developers to develop commercial and research quantum technologies. 

• Continuously develop new experimental skills while contributing ideas to improve the performance and capability of our quantum systems. 

• Participate in technical discussions, design reviews and problem-solving sessions. 

• Manage priorities effectively while working in a fast-paced research and development environment. 

• Contribute positively to an open, collaborative and supportive team culture. 

Scientific Communication 

• Present experimental findings and progress during internal meetings. 

• Contribute to technical reports, documentation and, where appropriate, scientific publications. 

• Attend project meetings, workshops and conferences as opportunities arise. 

Requirements

What you will bring to the team:  

 Technical Knowledge   

• MSc in Experimental Atomic, Molecular and Optical (AMO) Physics or a closely related discipline, or equivalent experience. 

• Passion for quantum technologies and a desire to help build the next generation of quantum computers. 

• Strong experimental laboratory skills. 

• Programming experience in Python or a similar language. 

• Curiosity, creativity and a passion for solving challenging experimental physics problems. 

• Good verbal and written communication skills, both in writing and orally  

• Demonstrated enthusiasm for experimental physics and a desire to learn rapidly in a fast-moving research and development environment. 

• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams. 

Experience 

• Hands-on laboratory experience manipulating atoms, ions or molecules with light. 

• Experience building or operating complex optical systems. 

• Ability to troubleshoot optical and mechanical systems. 

• Experience analysing scientific data. 

• Understanding of laboratory health and safety practices. 

No industrial experience is required. We welcome applications from exceptional MSc graduates and early-career researchers who are excited to develop their careers in quantum technologies. 

Desirable 

• Knowledge of quantum information science or quantum computing concepts. 

• Experience with experimental automation and scientific software development. 

• Experience with one or more of the following: 

• Laser cooling and trapping 

• Optical systems and laser alignment 

• Laser locking techniques 

• Atomic, molecular or ion experiments 

• Ultra-high vacuum systems 

• Atom trapping using tightly focused laser beams  

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment and around technical equipment including computers and lasers. Able to sit, stand, bend, lift and carry up to 15 kg without assistance. Able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in-person). Any required Personal Protective Equipment will be provided and must be properly used in accordance with company requirements. 

TRAVEL 

Up to 10% travel may be required. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Regardless of your interest in the quantum industry, you can take pride in the fact that Infleqtion is building an ecosystem of quantum technologies and commercial products, driving the industry towards the future. Studies reveal that while men apply for jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the requirements, women and other groups tend to apply only when they meet all the criteria. If you believe you have the potential but don't meet every single point in our job advertisement, please don't hesitate to contact us! We would love to chat with you and see how you could bring great value to our team. Our goal is to find exceptional individuals who can enrich our team culture, actively contribute, and have a genuine passion for their work. Here you have freedom to embrace your whole self: who you love, your gender identity and expression, skin colour, age, appearance, disability, neurodiversity, DNA, military/veteran status, citizenship, and other factors that make up who you are. Your uniqueness is valued, welcomed, and appreciated here. We are dedicated to providing a positive workplace and base all employment decisions on your qualifications, performance, merits, as well as business needs. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. 

Benefits

 In addition to your base compensation, we offer a generous Total Rewards program which includes:

• Competitive salary  
• Bonus scheme

• Unlimited PTO  subject to fair usage

• Generous company 10% pension contribution regardless of employee contribution  

• Cycle to work scheme 

• Tax efficient technology schemes  

• Incentive Stock Option Plan  

• BUPA Private Healthcare Insurance once probationary period is successfully completed
• Life Assurance (4 x salary) 

CONTACT INFORMATION 

If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every requirement, we’d still love to hear from you! Apply, and we’ll be in touch. If you need assistance or accommodation, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]

Notice to Recruitment Agencies:

Infleqtion does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Infleqtion is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.