Tyto Athene is seeking a Quantum Algorithm Director to lead the maturation and integration of quantum computing into the mission-critical operations of the U.S. Federal Government, DoD, IC, and National Security sectors. This role is designed for a high-level theorist with the entrepreneurial drive to build a practice from the ground up and deliver unbreakable resilience for missions in contested environments. You will be the architect of our quantum strategy, leading foundational research to enable a reliable NISQ-to-FTQC transition. You will bridge the gap between hard-core physics and practical application, establishing a full-stack quantum platform that serves the warfighter and the broader intelligence community.

Responsibilities:

Practice Leadership & Strategy:

• Establish the Practice Vision: Set the strategic direction for the quantum practice, including the selection of key partners and the establishment of development teams and competencies.
• Platform Selection: Establish precise criteria for selecting hardware providers and development environments based on specific use cases, navigating the rapid evolution of quantum hardware.
• Build a Community of Practice: Foster innovation by encouraging hackathons and challenges while managing the promotion of quantum solutions to production environments.
• Thought Leadership: Publish research aligned with Department of War (DoW) objectives to maintain thought leadership and drive OTA and prime award wins.

Technical Execution & Engineering:

• Algorithm Design: Design fault-tolerant algorithms that support hybrid classical-quantum workflows, ensuring seamless co-existence with legacy stacks.
• Stability Modeling: Model qubit stability and develop critical error correction codes, such as surface codes, for both sensing and compute applications.
• Talent Upskilling: Build a development practice by mentoring and upskilling traditional classical application engineering talent to practically exploit quantum platforms.
• IP & Collaboration: Partner with "tuck-in" entities to integrate intellectual property for quantum research units within the DoD, IC, and Department of Energy.

Required:

• Academic Background: PhD in Quantum Physics or Quantum Information.
• Error Correction Mastery: 5+ years of experience in error correction (specifically surface codes and LDPC) supported by a record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Strategic Partnering: Proven ability to curate preferred partners for quantum stacks and establish algorithmic offerings.

Desired:

• TS/SCI eligible.
• Prior experience within DoD labs such as AFRL or DARPA.
• Held patents in fault-tolerant methods or experience building industry solution accelerators.
• A strong background in mentoring or teaching to help bridge the gap between theoretical physics and software engineering.

Compensation:

• Compensation is unique to each candidate and relative to the skills and experience they bring to the position. This does not guarantee a specific salary as compensation is based upon multiple factors such as education, experience, certifications, and other requirements, and may fall outside of the above-stated range.