Research Scientist - Quantum Optics

ORCA Computing ("ORCA") is at the forefront of a new era in high-performance computing, developing full-stack photonic quantum systems designed to transform how organizations tackle machine learning, generative AI, and complex optimization challenges. Headquartered in London, ORCA has delivered eleven on-premises quantum computers worldwide - demonstrating that its technology is not theoretical but already delivering real world results.

At the core of ORCA's innovation is its hybrid quantum-classical architecture, engineered for seamless integration into existing AI and HPC infrastructure. Its current PT-2 system, a rack-mounted quantum computer, connects directly to GPU clusters via NVIDIA's CUDA-Q platform, enabling accelerated AI workloads with significantly lower energy consumption than traditional silicon-based systems. Backed by a strong portfolio of patent families spanning photonic integrated circuits, quantum memory, and multiplexing technologies, ORCA is enabling enterprises, research institutions, and HPC operators to unlock new levels of performance, efficiency, and scalability.

As ORCA prepares to launch its next-generation PT-3 system, the company is entering a pivotal phase of growth and technological advancement. Its solutions are already being embedded into generative AI pipelines, delivering measurable improvements in model performance, while also addressing the rising energy demands of large-scale AI adoption. With a focus on practical deployment and a clear roadmap to fault-tolerant quantum computing, ORCA is leading the development and deployment of quantum technology, providing a commercially viable path to the future of computing.

What will you do

• Support day-to-day experiments in the lab: set up optics, align components, run procedures, and capture results.
• Help build and improve experimental test setups for generating, manipulating, and measuring quantum states of light-working from existing designs and guidance from senior team members.
• Write and maintain Python scripts for data acquisition, automation, and basic instrument control to make experiments repeatable.
• Analyze data, plot key metrics, and summarize what you found-clearly documenting methods, settings, and conclusions.
• Assist with debugging and improving stability/reliability of optical and electronic systems by running structured tests and tracking issues.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to integrate lab learnings into larger systems, including supporting assembly, commissioning, and performance checks.

What will you bring - required

• Master's degree (or higher) in physics, engineering, or a related applied science, with a strong focus on quantum optics and/or quantum information.
• Experience working in a research or lab environment, collaborating with scientists/engineers to deliver experimental outcomes.
• Strong analytical and experimental problem-solving skills-able to debug complex optical/electrical systems methodically.
• Ability to write and modify Python code for automation, instrumentation control, and/or data acquisition.
• A practical, hands-on mindset and curiosity to learn quickly.

Nice to have

• Hands-on experience with lasers, building optical systems, and common photonics components (e.g., EOMs/AOMs, fibre optic components).
• Knowledge of nonlinear optics and/or optical interferometry, and the practical considerations that affect stability and visibility.
• Electronics experience with data acquisition, high-speed digital systems, and/or RF systems used in experimental control.

Who we are looking for

• Bias toward action: You make progress in ambiguous spaces-running the right experiments, instrumenting for learning, and iterating quickly.
• Ownership mindset: You take responsibility for outcomes end-to-end, from experimental design through to documentation, handover, and integration support.
• Resourcefulness: You find pragmatic paths forward despite constraints in time, equipment, or incomplete information.
• Intellectual humility: You challenge assumptions (including your own), welcome review, and use data to converge on the best solution.
• Cross-functional thinking: You can translate research results into what matters for product performance, reliability, manufacturability, and customer value.

Joining ORCA Computing offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of quantum technology, where innovation is already delivering real-world impact. Across commercial, operational, and product roles, you'll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to bring advanced quantum systems to market and help integrate quantum capabilities into modern AI and data center ecosystems.

ORCA provides a rare chance to contribute to a pivotal moment in the evolution of computing. With a culture built on ownership, collaboration, and ambition, the company empowers individuals to solve complex challenges and shape how next-generation quantum technologies are developed, deployed, and scaled across industries - driving a more efficient and powerful future for AI and compute.