Lead Quantum Applications Researcher - Japan

As the Lead Quantum Applications Scientist - Japan, you will lead Qedma’s quantum applications efforts in the region, combining application-driven quantum research with regional technical and commercial leadership. You will play a key role in shaping the evolution of Qedma’s error-reduction technologies and supporting their commercial adoption through real-world quantum applications and strategic collaborations. 

In addition to guiding applied research and method development, you will be leading technical sales activities, drive customer adoption and scientific partnerships, and mentor and lead the local Quantum Applications Research team as it grows.

Responsibilities

• Lead application-driven quantum research and strategic technical collaborations in Japan, developing and applying Qedma’s error-reduction technologies to real-world quantum applications. 
• Own Qedma’s quantum applications activities in Japan, ensuring the technical success of customer engagements and regional partnerships. 
• Drive high-impact customer projects, translating application and business needs into quantum workflows, technical proposals, and proof-of-concept demonstrations. 
• Develop application-driven error reduction methods (mitigation and correction) that unlock practical quantum use cases, in close collaboration with Qedma’s research and product teams. 
• Shape Qedma’s error-reduction roadmap by incorporating customer, application, and regional insights into core R&D decisions. 
• Lead the technical sales process and serve as a trusted technical advisor to customers, from early discovery through long-term partnerships. 
• Build, mentor, and lead the local Quantum Applications Research team, while representing Qedma within the Japanese quantum ecosystem. 

Requirements

• PhD in quantum computing, physics, computer science, mathematics, or a related field. 
• Strong experience with quantum algorithms and applied quantum computing workflows. 
• Proven experience working directly with customers or partners in applied or commercial environments. 
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical discussions with both scientific and business stakeholders. 
• Proven scientific leadership, including mentoring researchers and leading collaborative research efforts. 
• Strong programming skills, preferably in Python. 
• Excellent communication skills in English and Japanese, both verbal and written. 
• Ability to operate independently, take ownership of regional responsibilities, and lead initiatives spanning research, product, and commercial teams. 

Advantages:

• Prior experience in technical sales, pre-sales, or customer-facing leadership roles. 
• Experience building or leading small technical or scientific teams. 
• Familiarity with cloud-based quantum hardware platforms and enterprise customers. 
• Existing connections within the Japanese quantum ecosystem.