Senior Tensor AI Scientist

Terra Quantum seeks a Senior Tensor AI Scientist in Zürich to lead research on tensor networks and machine learning, driving efficient model architectures and large-scale training methods.

The company is looking for an expert to join the Advanced Computing & Modelling team, reporting directly to the Director of Advanced Technologies. This position plays a central role in research that intersects tensor networks with modern machine learning, a strategic priority for the organization with broad industrial applications. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with scientists and engineers across the division to translate research concepts into validated results.

Responsibilities

• Lead the advancement and scaling of tensor network research, creating new methods for efficient machine learning model architectures, training processes, and optimization.
• Design and train contemporary deep learning models, prioritizing techniques that make large-scale training more resource-efficient.
• Develop core algorithms, guiding ideas from initial concepts through to validated outcomes.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to apply these methods to complex real-world challenges.
• Represent the company at major conferences and contribute to patents and selected academic publications.
• Mentor junior staff and help structure the team's research efforts to elevate scientific and engineering standards.
• Collaborate with engineers to execute methods efficiently on modern computing platforms.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. or an M.Sc. combined with substantial relevant experience in machine learning, applied mathematics, physics, computer science, or a closely related discipline.
• Robust mathematical background in linear algebra, numerical methods, optimization, and probability theory.
• Practical experience training modern deep learning models, including transformers, using frameworks like PyTorch or JAX, with a focus on efficient large-scale training and fine-tuning.
• Deep understanding of optimization methods for machine learning, covering gradient-based techniques, large-scale optimization, regularization, and training dynamics.
• Proven ability to apply efficient training and model compression techniques, such as low-rank methods, quantization, distillation, or sparsity.
• Demonstrated capacity to quickly master new mathematical frameworks.
• Strong Python proficiency and solid software engineering practices, including experience with GPU, HPC environments, and distributed training.
• A track record of publications or patents, along with the ability to independently take a research direction from concept to result.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with a willingness to guide and develop junior colleagues.

Nice to have

• Knowledge of tensor networks and related numerical and optimization techniques.
• Domain exposure to one or more of: finance, chemistry, or operations.
• Knowledge of C++ and familiarity with quantum computing.

What the company offers

• A high degree of freedom in working arrangements, allowing for remote work or office presence.
• Opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in quantum technologies and an experienced leadership team.
• Access to cutting-edge technology developments in science and engineering.
• Joining one of Europe’s leading technology firms poised for growth in the coming decades.
• A welcoming, friendly, and professional team environment.
• A personal development plan with clear goals for advancement.
• A competitive salary.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• A diverse and supportive atmosphere that encourages innovation and initiative.

About the company

Terra Quantum is an international team of quantum technology experts and business creatives working to bring quantum-enabled solutions to the global market. Driven by trust, excellence, and continuous improvement, the company aims to pioneer quantum technologies to change the world for good. Its vision is to lead the quantum revolution and shape a better future for humankind by delivering meaningful solutions today.

• International team of quantum technology experts and dedicated business creatives.
• Vibrant, enthusiastic, passionate, and creative culture driven by trust, excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Purpose to pioneer quantum technologies to change the world for good.
• Vision to lead the quantum revolution and be the trailblazer in technology solutions.
• Mission to unleash the power of quantum tech to deliver meaningful solutions today.