Graduate Software Development Engineer in Test

Graduate Software Development Engineer in Test Overview

Riverlane is looking for a senior researcher to help advance its mission of building practical quantum error correction and enabling scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computing. This position sits within one of the company’s more research-heavy QEC teams, where mathematicians, physicists, computer scientists, and software engineers work together on ambitious projects that support the development of the world’s first quantum error correction stack.

In this role, you will combine deep research work with technical leadership. You will guide a small team inside a larger multidisciplinary group, shape research direction, and help turn scientific progress into outcomes that support Riverlane’s roadmap and business goals. The company is growing quickly, has raised significant funding to accelerate its R&D, and works with leading quantum hardware providers and government partners.

What you will be doing

• Conduct advanced, high-impact research in quantum error correction while also helping the researchers you lead grow in capability and confidence.
• Take ownership of multi-person projects from beginning to end, coordinating with your team and with colleagues across the wider organisation.
• Influence the direction and priorities of QEC research as Riverlane scales its technology and product roadmap.
• Convert research progress into practical results that contribute directly to company strategy and delivery.
• Manage, mentor, and support team members so they can develop professionally and take on greater responsibility.
• Develop strong working relationships with external collaborators, customers, and partners, including hardware partners across different qubit platforms.
• Help secure new work by contributing to proposals, bids, and funding applications.
• Share knowledge across teams to speed up product development and broader technical progress.
• Contribute to internal and open-source codebases by writing and reviewing code.
• Communicate findings effectively through publications, conference talks, and workshop presentations.

What Riverlane is looking for

• A PhD in mathematics, physics, computer science, or a similar technical field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Evidence of strong theoretical research ability, such as a publication record.
• Experience shaping the direction of scientific or technical research.
• Experience leading projects with multiple contributors.
• A collaborative style and experience mentoring or guiding less experienced colleagues.
• Working knowledge of quantum error correction.
• The ability to perform well both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex ideas clearly to different audiences.
• Helpful additional experience would include prior QEC research shown through publications, familiarity with qLDPC codes, knowledge of one or more qubit modalities, experience leading a research group across several projects and priorities, Python and/or C++ skills, and a track record of winning contracts or grants.

What the company offers

• A comprehensive package including an annual bonus, private medical insurance, life insurance, and a contributory pension scheme.
• Equity, allowing employees to share in the company’s long-term success.
• 28 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, along with enhanced family leave.
• A diverse workplace bringing together experts from many disciplines and more than 20 nationalities.
• Learning and development support through regular learning events, training, and conference budgets.

Working arrangement

The role is based in Cambridge, UK and is described as hybrid. The posting also says that part-time applications will be considered, and applicants should note their preferred working schedule in their cover letter.

How to apply

Applicants should submit a CV and covering letter through the application link. The cover letter should explain why the role is of interest and describe the skills and experience the candidate would bring. Riverlane reviews applications as they come in and begins interviewing as soon as it has suitable candidates, so there is no closing date and early applications are encouraged. Questions can be sent to [email protected].

Additional information

Riverlane says it is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from eligible, 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. The company also encourages applications from women and other underrepresented groups, noting that candidates may be less likely to apply unless they meet every requirement, and invites people to apply even if they do not match every qualification. If adjustments are needed during the application or selection process, Riverlane asks candidates to get in touch so support can be provided.

Degree Requirement: Bachelor’s

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