Quantum Compilation Intern M/F

Alice & Bob is developing the first universal, fault-tolerant quantum computer to solve the world’s hardest problems.

The quantum computer we envision building is based on a new kind of superconducting qubit: the Schrödinger cat qubit 🐈‍⬛. In comparison to other superconducting platforms, cat qubits have the astonishing ability to implement quantum error correction autonomously!

We're a diverse team of 250+ brilliant minds from over 35 countries united by a single goal: to revolutionise computing with a practical fault-tolerant quantum machine. Are you ready to take on unprecedented challenges and contribute to revolutionising technology? Join us, and let's shape the future of quantum computing together!

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

In a context where Alice & Bob is building a fault-tolerant quantum computer based on cat qubits, the Quantum Compilation Intern helps quantum programs run efficiently on this architecture. Reporting to the Senior Quantum Compilation Scientist, you will work closely with the Compilation team to develop, implement and integrate modern compilation algorithms that exploit the properties of cat qubits, in particular their noise bias toward phase-flip errors.

The internship starts between January and March 2027 and lasts 6 months!

Responsibilities:

1- Review the cat-qubit architecture and the state of the art in compilation

• Study cat-qubit physics, including the noise bias toward phase-flip errors, and the resulting gate set, connectivity and error-correction constraints
• Study modern compiler design, from front end to code generation, and the structure of the company's existing compiler
• Survey circuit synthesis, routing and optimization techniques and assess their relevance to cat-qubit architectures

2- Build intermediate representations and integrate compilation passes

• Design and implement compiler intermediate representations (IRs)
• Implement compilation passes and integrate them into the company's compiler
• Test and document the implemented passes

3- Benchmark resource costs

• Measure the resource costs of compiled programs, such as qubit count, gate count and runtime
• Compare the results with existing compilation approaches and report the findings

Requirements:

You are a student with a strong foundation in both quantum computing and computer science, and an interest in the interface between quantum hardware and software. You can translate methods from the scientific literature into working, tested code. You work autonomously while seeking regular feedback from the team.

• EDUCATION: Currently enrolled in a Master's program (M1 or M2) or the final year of an engineering school, in physics, computer science or applied mathematics
  LANGUAGES: Proficient in English
  EXPERIENCE: No minimum professional experience required; prior projects in quantum computing, compilers or scientific software are an advantage
• Knowledge of quantum computing fundamentals: quantum circuits, gate sets and quantum error correction
• Understanding of compiler concepts: intermediate representations, compilation passes and program analysis
• Solid grounding in algorithms and data structures, including graph algorithms
• Software engineering practices: version control (Git), testing and documentation
• Ability to read, synthesize and apply scientific literature
• Scientific rigor, autonomy and clear written and oral communication
• Proficiency in Python; experience with a compiled language such as C++ or Rust is a plus

Benefits

- 1 day off per month

- Half of transportation cost coverage (as per French law)

- Meal vouchers with Swile, as well as access to a fully equipped and regularly stocked kitchen

Research shows that women might feel hesitant to apply for this job if they don't match 100% of the job requirements listed. This list is a guide, and we'd love to receive your application even if you think you're only a partial match. We are looking to build teams that innovate, not just tick boxes on a job spec.

You will join of one of the most innovative startups in France at an early stage, to be part of a passionate and friendly team on its mission to build the first universal quantum computer!

We love to share and learn from one another, so you will be certain to innovate, develop new ideas, and have the space to grow.