Staff Research Scientist- Quantum Computing

Visa Research conducts Applied and Fundamental Research and was created to lead the company in pushing the boundaries of payment related technologies on a global scale. We engage with the company's numerous technology and product teams, world-wide business partners, academics, and governments, to explore and develop technologies that will shape the future of the payments industry and impact the lives of billions of people.   

The Staff Research Scientist will work with a growing team to advance the long-term research agenda in quantum information and computation, helping deliver innovative technologies and insights to Visa's strategic products and businesses. The ideal candidate will focus on applying quantum information and computation to finance and payments, including developing and implementing quantum algorithms to address financial applications such as portfolio optimization, risk analysis, and derivative pricing. This role represents an exciting opportunity to make key contributions to Visa's strategic vision as a world-leading company. The successful candidate must have strong academic track record, demonstrated by publications and solid academic credentials. The successful candidate will be a self-starter comfortable with ambiguity, with strong attention to detail, and excellent collaboration skills. 

Essential Functions: 

• Conduct theoretical and practical research and development in the field of quantum information and computation especially in potential applications to finance and payments. 

• Design and test novel algorithms and models to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to explore applications of quantum computing in various domains. 

• Stay updated with the latest advancements and breakthroughs in the field of quantum computing. 

• Publish research findings in top-tier conferences and journals. 

• Mentor interns and contribute to a collaborative research environment. 

This is a hybrid position. Expectation of days in office will be confirmed by your hiring manager.

Basic Qualification:

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering or a related field. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3 or more years of work experience with a PhD in a related field.
• Solid theoretical understanding of quantum mechanics, quantum computation and information.
• Experience proposing novel quantum algorithms (especially for optimization, machine learning, and simulation).
• Experience with quantum programming platforms (e.g., Qiskit, Cirq).
• Software engineering skills, including coding, debugging, and version control (e.g., Git).
• Experience deploying and testing algorithms on quantum hardware.
• Nice to have: experience in financial applications of quantum computing (e.g., risk analysis, derivative pricing.
• Nice to have: familiarity with classical finance models or financial engineering.

Work Hours: Varies upon the needs of the department.

Travel Requirements: This position requires travel 5-10% of the time.

Mental/Physical Requirements: This position will be performed in an office setting. The position will require the incumbent to sit and stand at a desk, communicate in person and by telephone, frequently operate standard office equipment, such as telephones and computers.

Visa is an EEO Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Visa will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with EEOC guidelines and applicable local law.

Visa will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable local law, including the requirements of Article 49 of the San Francisco Police Code.

U.S. APPLICANTS ONLY: The estimated salary range for this position is $169,100 to $270,800 USD per year, which may include potential sales incentive payments (if applicable). Salary may vary depending on job-related factors which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location. In addition, this position may be eligible for bonus and equity. Visa has a comprehensive benefits package for which this position may be eligible that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (k), FSA/HSA, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and Wellness Program.