Staff Algorithms Researcher

Role Description

D-Wave is seeking a Staff Algorithms Researcher to join our Algorithms, Performance, and Tools team. In this role, you will lead research and development efforts within the Hybrid Development Program, driving algorithmic innovation, benchmarking strategy, and performance characterization of quantum computing systems. You will independently lead complex research initiatives, design and execute experiments, analyze system performance, and influence technical direction through data-driven insights.

Success in this role requires deep algorithmic expertise, strong scientific judgment, and the ability to translate complex research into practical improvements that advance system performance and scalability. You will collaborate across teams, provide technical leadership within your area of expertise, and help shape the evolution of our benchmarking and hybrid algorithm development efforts. This is an opportunity to contribute at the forefront of quantum computing, enabling solutions used by leading organizations across industry, government, and academia.

What you'll do

• Develop graph-theoretical algorithms for mapping optimization problems to the topology of our quantum computers.
• Lead complex research and development initiatives focused on benchmarking, characterization, and performance optimization of quantum computing systems.
• Drive the design, development, and evaluation of existing and novel quantum-classical hybrid algorithms.
• Independently identify, define, and execute research opportunities that advance algorithmic performance, benchmarking methodologies, and system capabilities.
• Critically evaluate emerging research, benchmarks, and methodologies from scientific literature, assessing technical validity, reproducibility, and business relevance.
• Design and execute experiments to characterize QPU contributions within hybrid algorithms and broader system workflows.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of experimental and benchmarking results to identify trends, inform technical strategy, and guide system-level improvements.
• Develop scalable benchmarking frameworks, tools, and processes that improve research efficiency, technical rigor, and decision-making.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences, tailoring content to varying levels of expertise.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with physicists, computer scientists, software developers, product teams, and other domain experts to integrate multidisciplinary insights into research initiatives.
• Serve as a technical resource within the organization, providing mentorship, guidance, and thought leadership in areas of expertise.
• Contribute to the evolution of research methodologies, technical standards, and best practices across the team.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of relevant research and development experience, with a demonstrated record of independently leading complex technical initiatives.
• Deep knowledge of graph theory.
• Deep proficiency in Python and C++.
• Strong foundation in algorithm development, with experience in machine learning, Monte Carlo methods, statistical physics, optimization, or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret, reproduce, extend, and critically evaluate complex algorithms and experimental results from scientific literature.
• Proven track record of conducting independent research, developing novel approaches, and solving complex technical challenges.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including experience with exploratory data analysis and statistical evaluation of experimental results.
• Excellent technical communication and scientific writing skills, with experience presenting findings to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to influence technical direction, collaborate across teams, and contribute to the growth and development of others.

A D-Waver's DNA

• We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines.
• We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy.
• We value different opinions and points of views.
• We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
• We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results.
• We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
• As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible.
• We develop our teams & create the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Inclusion

We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.

Our Compensation Philosophy

We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team.

During the interview process, your Recruiter will explain how our rubrics work across all our total rewards (base, equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture) offerings. The base salary for this role is as noted below for the two applicable locations. The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.

The Fine Print

No 3rd party candidates will be accepted. It is D-Wave Systems Inc. policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.