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.