QPU Build Co-Op – Optics & Data Analysis

In this Co-Op/Internship you’ll work at the intersection of optics, atomic physics, and data science. The QPU Build team designs and implements system-wide features of QuEra’s neutral-atom quantum computer architecture. You’ll work hands-on in the lab characterizing the optical systems that trap and control atoms and turn those measurements into insights that drive improvements across the machine.

Along the way, you’ll get a holistic view of how a quantum computer is designed and built at QuEra Computing Inc.

Responsibilities

• Optical Measurements: Design and run measurements to characterize optical components and systems used in neutral-atom quantum computing, including lasers, beam-shaping optics, and atom-trapping setups.
• Assist with building, aligning, and troubleshooting optical setups in the lab.
• Data Analysis: Analyze measurement and experimental data using the Python scientific stack.
• Build tools and workflows that make results reproducible, and turn findings into clear, actionable feedback for the team.
• System Integration Support: Work with physicists and engineers to bring optical subsystems into the broader atomic physics pipeline and help identify ways to improve performance and reliability.

Qualifications

• Pursuing or recently completed a degree in physics, optics/photonics, engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on optics lab experience (e.g., alignment, beam characterization, working with lasers and optical components) is required.
• Strong Python programming skills for data analysis (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, Matplotlib).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong evidence of independent work.
• A deep background in quantum physics isn’t required, but a solid foundation in physics and mathematics.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with holography, spatial light modulators, diffractive optics and/or metasurfaces.
• Experience with CAD design in Autodesk Inventor and/or optical design in Zemax.
• Exposure to atomic physics or quantum computing experiments.
• This is an on-site Co-Op/Internship.
• Relocation is not offered for this role.
• Immediate start date preferred.
• QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
• We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.