How to Find Hidden Quantum Computing Jobs in the UK Using Professional Bodies like BCS, IOP & More
Quantum computing is one of the most exciting and disruptive fields in science and technology. As the UK invests in a national quantum strategy—with funding for hardware, software, cryptography, and applications—demand for quantum talent is growing rapidly.
But here’s what most job seekers miss: many quantum computing roles are never posted on public job boards.
Instead, opportunities are shared quietly through research partnerships, industry working groups, spinout collaborations, and professional bodies. In this guide, we’ll show you how to access hidden quantum computing jobs in the UK by leveraging organisations like the Institute of Physics (IOP), BCS, Quantum Technology Hubs, UKRI, and other key communities.
We’ll explore how to use membership directories, SIGs (Special Interest Groups), CPD events, and project funding announcements to gain visibility, build relationships, and find roles long before they’re advertised.
Why Quantum Jobs Are Often Hidden
The quantum ecosystem is still emerging—and that means many roles:
Are created through grant-funded research
Arise from academia-industry collaborations
Are filled by referral or invitation
Exist within stealth-mode start-ups or defence applications
Don’t have a traditional “job ad”—they're formed around people and projects
If you’re not actively engaged in the right networks, you may never even hear about these jobs.
1. IOP – Institute of Physics
What It Is:
IOP is the UK's professional body for physicists, including specialists in quantum optics, condensed matter, and quantum information.
Why It Helps:
Quantum Special Interest Group: Join discussions on quantum hardware, theory, and commercialisation.
Networking Events: Engage with researchers, engineers, and tech companies working in quantum.
Chartered Physicist Status (CPhys): Signals credibility to employers and research institutes.
Career & Research Resources: Track studentships, fellowships, and quantum PhDs transitioning into industry.
Pro Tip:
Attend a regional IOP quantum seminar or contribute to a discussion panel. Visibility within IOP often leads to collaboration invites—and insider job leads.
2. BCS – The Chartered Institute for IT
What It Is:
BCS supports IT professionals across data science, computing and AI—including those working in quantum algorithms, software, and hybrid systems.
Why It Helps:
Quantum Software & AI SIGs: Engage with applied researchers developing quantum algorithms, compilers, and frameworks.
CPD Events: Learn from talks on post-quantum cryptography, quantum-inspired AI, and simulation platforms.
BCS Directory: A searchable network of professionals open to collaboration or hiring.
Chartered IT Professional (CITP): Adds weight to your profile, especially for quantum software roles.
Pro Tip:
If you’re a computer scientist or developer transitioning into quantum, BCS provides the bridge between classical computing and emerging technologies.
3. UK National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP)
What It Is:
The UK government’s flagship programme supporting the commercialisation of quantum research through four national Quantum Technology Hubs.
Why It Helps:
Quantum Hubs: Each hub (Sensors & Timing, Imaging, Networking & Computing, and Quantum Communications) funds academic-industrial partnerships.
Job Creation Pipeline: Projects funded through the NQTP often create new roles for researchers, engineers, and product specialists.
Events & Demonstrations: Connect directly with tech transfer teams and spinouts at NQTP showcases.
Pro Tip:
Keep tabs on the four hubs’ websites for open roles, PhDs, postdocs, or research assistant positions—many lead to industry careers.
4. UKRI, EPSRC & Innovate UK
What They Are:
UKRI (via EPSRC and Innovate UK) funds the majority of quantum R&D in the UK. Knowing where the money goes is key to predicting who’s hiring.
Why They Help:
Funding Announcements: Monitor awarded grants to identify growing projects and consortia.
Gateway to Research: A searchable database of funded projects, team leads and organisational partners.
Collaborative Projects: Early-stage start-ups or scaleups funded by UKRI often grow their team quietly.
Pro Tip:
Reach out to Principal Investigators (PIs) or industry partners listed on UKRI-funded quantum projects. You’ll often find roles that haven’t been advertised yet.
5. Quantum Industry Organisations & Events
In addition to academic bodies, industry groups and innovation hubs offer powerful networking opportunities.
Key Organisations:
UKQuantum (formerly Quantum Industry Coalition)
QTEC (Quantum Technology Enterprise Centre)
Oxford Quantum Circuits, Riverlane, Phasecraft (UK-based quantum companies)
Quantum.Tech & Q2B Europe Events
Why They Help:
Startup & Scaleup Insight: Many fast-growing quantum companies share roles first at events or through closed communities.
Investor Watchlists: Track which companies are gaining funding—they’ll need new hires.
Talent Panels & Career Tracks: Meet employers at quantum-specific recruitment days.
Pro Tip:
Even if you’re still upskilling, attending a conference or joining a networking panel can put you on an employer’s radar for their next round of hiring.
How to Use These Networks to Find Quantum Computing Jobs
✅ 1. Create a Strong Member Profile
Use keywords specific to your quantum focus:
“Quantum Software Engineer | Qiskit | Variational Algorithms | PhD | UK Remote/Hybrid”
This helps collaborators, researchers and recruiters find you.
✅ 2. Attend Events & Follow Up
Prepare questions, connect on LinkedIn afterwards, and reference the session. Most hiring in quantum happens after events—not during them.
✅ 3. Volunteer or Contribute
Offer to write a blog, speak on a panel, or help coordinate an event. These activities raise your visibility and credibility.
✅ 4. Track Project Funding
Use Gateway to Research, Innovate UK or the NQTP to find who’s getting funding—then reach out proactively.
✅ 5. Build a Portfolio of Quantum Work
Share GitHub repos, whitepapers, or blog posts. Technical visibility often leads to job offers in this niche space.
Why Hidden Quantum Jobs Are Common in the UK
🧪 Roles often begin as part of grant-funded collaborations
🚫 Commercial projects remain confidential until launch
🤝 Hiring is frequently referral-based within trusted networks
🔍 Companies look for contributors—not just applicants
If you’re not active in the UK’s quantum ecosystem, you may never see the opportunity until it’s already filled.
Final Thoughts: Quantum Careers Start with Community
To unlock the most exciting and high-potential roles in quantum computing, you need to be visible where innovation is happening.
✅ Join professional bodies like IOP and BCS
✅ Get involved in SIGs, technical events and hackathons
✅ Track who’s receiving funding or launching projects
✅ Offer your expertise through collaborations or talks
✅ Build your presence—before you need your next job
Quantum computing is still being built. Make sure you’re in the room where it’s happening.
Explore More Quantum Career Resources
👉 Browse the latest UK quantum computing jobs at www.quantumcomputingjobs.co.uk
👉 [Sign up for early access to roles, funding updates & quantum ecosystem news.]
💬 CTA for LinkedIn Group:
Want early access to UK quantum computing jobs, ecosystem events & expert insights? Join our LinkedIn group – Quantum Computing Jobs UK and connect with researchers, engineers & hiring managers across the quantum space.
