Theory Lead

Founded in 2020 and based in Paris, C12 is building a universal quantum computer with a mission to be at the center of one of the biggest technological breakthroughs of the century.

At C12, breakthroughs come from rethinking fundamentals. Our approach uses carbon nanotubes as the building blocks of quantum processors to reduce error rates, boost performance, and minimize hardware overhead, with the goal of scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computing. Our team combines academic and engineering excellence to pursue scalable quantum computing beyond conventional approaches.

Since our founding, we have raised over €25 million in funding, published scientific papers, and secured patents. Our fast-growing team of 80+ includes 25 PhDs from diverse nationalities and we operate in cutting-edge lab spaces in Paris. We work with scientists, engineers, and innovators to tackle challenging technical problems. If you are passionate about shaping the future of quantum technology, C12 offers an environment to grow, learn, and innovate.

Overview

As Theory Lead at C12, you will lead and coordinate the Theory & Applications team across three main areas:

• Hardware Modeling
• Quantum Error Correction
• Quantum Algorithms for Industrial Applications

Responsibilities

• Define and drive the company’s theory roadmap, aligning with hardware development, business priorities, and industrial quantum advantage opportunities
• Strengthen the company’s error correction strategy, from quantum error correction code benchmarking to implementation and fault-tolerance roadmap
• Drive co-design efforts between hardware and theory teams, defining scalable quantum computing architectures and long-term scalability strategies
• Recruit, mentor and structure the theory team as the company grows
• Establish collaborations with academia and research partners, contributing to the scientific visibility and positioning of the company within the quantum ecosystem
• Prioritize research directions and resources by balancing scientific ambition, hardware feasibility and business impact, while building consensus across technical experts

Qualifications

• You have a strong background in quantum computing with expertise in either Quantum Error Correction or Quantum Algorithms
• You have a broad understanding of the quantum computing stack and can engage effectively with experts across theory and hardware domains
• You have an architecture-level understanding of scalable quantum computing and fault-tolerant strategies
• You have demonstrated scientific leadership, with the ability to articulate a vision, align experts and drive execution
• You can connect theoretical developments with experimental and hardware constraints
• Experience leading or mentoring research teams is highly appreciated
• Experience working in startups or fast-paced private-sector environments is highly appreciated

What we offer

• €92,000 to €108,000 yearly base salary
• Stock options for every employee (BSPCE/ESOP)
• Sponsored trips to conferences around the world
• A highly dynamic international team
• Swile meal vouchers
• Training budget / Annual Learning & Development Allowance
• Sabbatical leave (after 2 years in the company)
• Vibrant office culture with two office spaces in Paris

You should join us if...

• You like hands-on work and technology
• You want to contribute to achieving landmark results in quantum computing and make an impact in emerging quantum technologies
• You want to work within a team of 80+ people with diverse backgrounds in nanofabrication, quantum electronics, and carbon nanotube science
• You want to thrive in an exceptional scientific environment with industrial and academic partners
• You share our values and want to help define a product-focused culture and ambition to accelerate