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

What We Offer

· 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.

· A performance-driven culture built on trust, teamwork, and shared ambition.

ID Quantique/ IonQ is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other status protected by law.