At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop cutting-edge software for quantum error correction and collaborate with top researchers.
- Company: Join Riverlane, a leader in quantum computing innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, private medical insurance, and generous leave.
- Other info: Diverse team environment with excellent growth and learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in quantum research while working with brilliant minds.
- Qualifications: MSc in relevant field and proficiency in C++ and Python required.
Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Permanent | Hybrid
Salary: £80,000 to £110,000 DOE
The salary range for this role is broad, as we are able to consider varying levels of experience. Any offer made will carefully take into account level of experience (including relevant industry experience), transferable relevant skills and previous relevant achievements.
About us
Riverlane’s mission is to master quantum error correction (QEC) and unlock a new age of human progress. From advances in material and climate science, to complex chemistry simulation for new drug design, quantum computers will help humanity solve some of its most important challenges. But without QEC, the industry’s defining technical challenge, breakthroughs can never be achieved. Riverlane is the world leader in QEC technology. QEC is a complex problem that requires a range of skills, talent and passion. Having raised more than $125M in funding to date to accelerate our cutting-edge R&D in quantum error correction (QEC), Riverlane partners with many of the world’s leading quantum hardware providers and government agencies to make fault-tolerant quantum computing a reality. We’re making remarkable progress and growing fast.
About the role
Riverlane's QEC research only moves as fast as the software that supports it. Researchers working on decoding algorithms need tools they can trust: fast, correct, and built to last. You'll sit within the Research teams, working alongside mathematicians, physicists and engineers to develop the simulation and analysis tooling that underpins their work. The quality of the software directly shapes what research is possible. At Senior level, you'll take ownership of significant technical work and help researchers around you raise their engineering standards. At Staff level, you'll set direction across projects and may lead a small team. This would suit someone who cares deeply about software quality and wants their work to directly shape what research is possible.
What you will do
- Developing research ideas and prototypes into correct, maintainable, and fast code.
- Delivering reliable and optimised software implementations of cutting-edge decoding algorithm.
- Maintaining and evolving repositories and software releases at the high engineering level.
- Extending Riverlane's software tools for quantum simulation and QEC decoding and analysis.
- Sharing expertise and collaborating with other teams at Riverlane to guide the development of various parts of the QEC stack.
- Support whole research directions and lead teams.
What we need
- MSc in Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field (or equivalent professional experience)
- Proficiency in C++ and Python is essential.
- Experience with collaborative programming
- Confidence in basics of linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and probabilities
- Experience with software engineering tools: CI/CD, containers, version control, static and dynamic code analysis
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Ability to work effectively, both independently and as part of a team
- A passion for learning and a curious mindset
- An interest in quantum computing
- Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to discuss complex ideas with a variety of audiences, in a clear and simple way
Even better if you have…
- Experience of shipping software to users
- Experience of quantum computing
- Experience of GPU programming
What can you expect from us
- A comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual bonus plan, private medical insurance, life insurance, and a contributory pension scheme
- Equity, so that our team can share in the long-term success of Riverlane
- 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and enhanced family leave
- A diverse work environment that brings together experts in many fields (including software and hardware development, quantum information theory, physics and maths) and over 20 different nationalities
- A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and development, including a regular programme of learning events and training and conference budgets
Everyone is welcome at Riverlane. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from eligible and suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity/paternity. Women and other underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a role unless they meet all or nearly all of the requirements. If this applies to you, we still encourage you to apply - you may be a great fit, even if you don’t meet every single qualification. We’d love to hear from you. If you need any adjustments made to the application or selection process so you can do your best, please let us know. We will be happy to help.
GDPR notice: Riverlane collects and processes personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws. If you are a European Job Applicant see the privacy notice for further details.
Senior/Staff Research Software Engineer in Cambridge employer: Riverlane
Riverlane is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead pioneering research in quantum computing within the vibrant academic and tech hub of Cambridge. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and inclusivity, employees benefit from a comprehensive package that includes bonuses and equity, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and development in a cutting-edge field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Staff Research Software Engineer in Cambridge
✨Join Local Tech Meetups
Get out there and mingle with fellow developers by joining local tech meetups. It’s a fantastic way to meet people who might be working at Riverlane or know someone who does. Plus, you can pick up some trendy tech skills and trends while you're at it!
✨Contribute to Open Source Projects
Show off your coding chops by jumping into open-source projects. Not only does this give you practical experience, but it also gets you noticed in the dev community. You'll create a killer portfolio that speaks volumes about your skills to Riverlane.
✨Tap into Online Developer Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online developer communities like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and even Reddit. Participate in discussions, share your projects, and build your visibility. We can often find opportunities through these channels that can lead to a full-time gig at companies like Riverlane.
✨Explore Job Boards Specifically for Tech Roles
Keep your eyes peeled on job boards that focus on tech roles. Sites like TechCareers or Stack Overflow Jobs can often have listings for companies like Riverlane that might not show up on broader job sites. Make it a habit to check these regularly, and don’t hesitate to apply directly through our website!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Staff Research Software Engineer in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your coding skills:When applying for a software engineering role, it's super important to showcase your coding skills. Make sure your CV includes your tech stack, any relevant programming languages you’re comfortable with, and examples of projects you've worked on. If you have a GitHub profile, link it up! We love to see code in action.
Tailor your portfolio:For a full-time role, we’d expect to see some solid examples of your work in your portfolio. Make sure to include at least two or three projects that highlight your problem-solving skills and your ability to work with different technologies. Focus on the projects that are most relevant to the position at Riverlane.
Craft a killer cover letter:Your cover letter is your chance to stand out—make it personal! Explain why you want to work at Riverlane and how your skills align with the role. Show us your passion for software development. We dig enthusiastic candidates who understand the value of collaboration and continuous learning!
Be clear and concise:When it comes to writing your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Avoid jargon that could confuse us and stick to simple, direct language. Highlight your achievements with quantifiable results where possible, and keep everything easy to read. A well-organised application goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Riverlane
✨Brush Up on Your Coding Skills
For a full-time software engineering role, it's crucial that we stay sharp with our coding abilities. Expect technical questions that might involve solving problems on the spot or discussing algorithms. Practise on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank to get comfortable with the types of questions that often come up.
✨Know Your Tools and Frameworks
Make sure we’re well-acquainted with the tools and technologies listed in the job description. Familiarise ourselves with any specific frameworks or programming languages mentioned. If Riverlane uses React or Node.js, for instance, be ready to discuss how we’ve used them in previous projects or coursework.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Bring along a portfolio that highlights our best work. This could be code samples, GitHub repositories, or any side projects we’ve built. Make sure we can talk through our thought process for each project, especially the challenges we faced and how we solved them—this shows our problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
While technical skills are key, full-time positions also require cultural fit. Be ready to discuss our previous experiences and how we handle teamwork, conflict, and deadlines. Brush up on the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to clearly articulate our past experiences when discussing how we've contributed to a team.
