PhD Research Internship 2027

Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Fixed-term, 3–6 months | Hybrid
Salary: £37,000 per annum, paid pro rata for the internship duration.
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, such 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
Our full-time PhD internships offer current doctoral students the opportunity to apply their research skills to scientific and technical challenges in industry. You do not need a background in quantum computing to apply. We welcome students from a wide range of quantitative disciplines, including mathematics, physics, computer science and engineering.
Based at our headquarters in Cambridge, UK, you will work alongside researchers and engineers tackling challenges in quantum error correction and its applications. You will have a dedicated supervisor and a defined project matched to your background and skills, with support to develop your understanding of quantum computing.
We aim for every internship to deliver a tangible contribution, such as a research paper, an algorithm, a software tool or a contribution to a product.
What you will do
Depending on your project, you could:
Investigate quantum error correction codes, decoding methods or related research challenges.
Develop algorithms, simulations or software to support Riverlane’s research and technology.
Explore quantum algorithms and their potential industrial applications.
Throughout your internship, you will:
Contribute to a project that supports Riverlane’s scientific or technical goals.
Work with your supervisor and colleagues to develop ideas, evaluate approaches and solve problems.
Communicate your findings through discussions, presentations and written reports.
What we need
Currently pursuing a PhD in a quantitative discipline, such as physics, mathematics, computer science, engineering or a related technical field.
Evidence of creative, high-quality research relevant to your stage of study.
Experience with at least one general-purpose programming language.
Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting scientific work to others.
The ability to take initiative and work effectively as part of a team.
An interest in applying your academic expertise to practical challenges in industry.
Important notes
PhD students must temporarily step away from their PhD studi