Lead Research Scientist (Quantum AI & Quantum Computing)

Location: Foster City, California, United States; hybrid position with office attendance required and no remote exception. Travel required 5–10% of the time.

Salary: $215,300–$344,600 USD per year, with potential bonus and equity eligibility.

Company

hirify.global is a global payments technology company facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and government entities in more than 200 countries and territories.

What you will do

• Lead research in quantum machine learning, quantum optimization, quantum simulation, and quantum AI.
• Develop quantum and hybrid quantum-classical algorithms for financial forecasting, analytics, portfolio optimization, risk management, fraud detection, transaction network optimization, market simulation, and scenario analysis.
• Advance quantum-enhanced AI and machine learning, quantum generative models, AI-driven quantum algorithm discovery, and enterprise-scale optimization.
• Evaluate and validate solutions on leading quantum computing platforms and identify high-impact opportunities for business value.
• Lead multidisciplinary research programs and external collaborations, including strategic partnerships with universities, research institutions, and technology providers.
• Mentor researchers, publish in top venues, and represent hirify.global in industry and academic forums.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Quantum Information Science, or a related field.
• 5+ years of research experience in quantum computing or related disciplines.
• Strong expertise in quantum algorithms and quantum computing fundamentals.
• Deep expertise in one or more of quantum machine learning, quantum optimization, quantum simulation, variational quantum algorithms, quantum generative AI, hybrid quantum-classical computing, quantum algorithms for finance, or fault-tolerant quantum computing.
• Experience with platforms such as Qiskit, Cirq, PennyLane, IBM Quantum, Quantinuum, IonQ, Rigetti, or equivalent ecosystems.
• Proven ability to translate advanced research into strategic business value.
• Experience applying quantum methods to optimization, AI, simulation, networks, or financial systems.
• Strong leadership, collaboration, mentorship, and executive communication skills.

Nice to have

• 7+ years of research and postdoctoral experience in quantum computing and AI.
• Recognized research leadership demonstrated through publications, patents, invited talks, and community contributions.
• Experience leading interdisciplinary research programs.

Culture & Benefits

• Opportunity to shape quantum technology applications for global payment and commerce challenges.
• Opportunity to influence hirify.global’s long-term technology strategy and collaborate with experts in quantum computing, AI, cryptography, and finance.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k); FSA/HSA; life insurance; paid time off; and wellness program eligibility.
• Office-based working environment with department-dependent work hours.