Be at the heart of actionFly remote-controlled drones into enemy territory to gather vital information.

Apply Now

Head of Quantum Applications

Oxford Ionics
Oxford
7 months ago
Applications closed

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Quantum Application / Algorithms Scientist

Quantum Application / Algorithms Scientist

Quantum Application / Algorithms Scientist

Quantum Application / Algorithms Scientist

Quantum Application / Algorithms Scientist

Quantum Application / Algorithms Scientist

The future is quantum. Oxford Ionics is at the forefront of pioneering quantum computing, delivering world-leading innovation to create the most powerful, accurate, and reliable quantum systems. Quantum computing offers a radically new way of building computers that harnesses the power of quantum physics to outperform conventional supercomputers exponentially. Using our unique trapped-ion technology, we are leading the race to unleash quantum computing's unparalleled potential.

What to expect:

We are looking for a Head of Quantum Applications with extensive, up-to-date experience in quantum algorithms, coupled with the ability and motivation to engage potential customers and partners. In this role, you will play a key part in bridging the gap between real-world applications and our hardware implementations. 

What you’ll be responsible for:

As the Head of Quantum Applications, your role will be both internally and externally facing. Internally, you will lead the market research into high-value applications, and support the product development to align with the identified requirements. Externally, you will be responsible for promoting the potential of quantum computing - and of the Oxford Ionics’ solutions - to potential customers, partners, and funding agencies.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Crafting compelling propositions that showcase what our current and future quantum computing hardware could help customers achieve
  • Promoting the potential for quantum computing and the value of Oxford Ionics’ solutions at targeted conferences and industry events
  • Maintaining a broad and up-to-date understanding of quantum algorithms and applications, interfacing with internal R&D teams to inform product design and development
  • Being the primary technical point of contact for discussions on quantum applications with current and potential partners and customers, working closely with our partnerships and business development teams
  • Leading technical work on quantum computing use cases within the context of projects and partnerships
  • Informing key decisions on Oxford Ionics' software stack, including compiler layers, API capabilities, interfaces between classical and quantum computers, HPC integration, third-party tool integration etc.

Requirements

You’ll need to be able to demonstrate a broad, up-to-date understanding of quantum algorithms and their applications across various industries. You should have experience engaging with end users to translate real-world cases into quantum algorithms tailored for specific hardware implementations. A strong ability to work comfortably in cross-disciplinary teams, effectively bridging the gap between hardware and software whilst also facilitating discussions between technical and business stakeholders, is essential. As is the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, along with familiarity with research on quantum advantage. Additionally, you should have proficiency in quantum development environments such as Cirq, Qiskit, or QuEST, with hands-on experience implementing quantum algorithms.

Familiarity with trapped-ion quantum computing hardware would be beneficial, as would an understanding of hybrid computing approaches, including classical HPC and quantum computing interfaces. Knowledge of the intersection between quantum computing and AI would also be desirable, whilst prior experience collaborating with end users and maintaining a network of external partners would also bring value.

Benefits

Oxford Ionics is leading the way in quantum technology, and we need skilled, innovative individuals like you. We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career with a world-class team, business stock options, enhanced annual leave, flexible working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, and much more. Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing. 

Oxford Ionics is committed to equal opportunity for all.

Subscribe to Future Tech Insights for the latest jobs & insights, direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Quantum Computing Recruitment Trends 2025 (UK): What Job Seekers Need To Know About Today’s Hiring Process

Summary: UK quantum computing hiring has shifted from credential‑first screening to capability‑driven evaluation. Employers now value provable contributions across the stack—algorithms & applications, compilation & optimisation, circuit synthesis, control & calibration, hardware characterisation, error mitigation/correction (QEM/QEC), verification/benchmarking, and hybrid HPC/quantum workflows—plus the ability to communicate trade‑offs, costs and feasibility to non‑quantum teams. This guide explains what’s changed, what to expect in interviews and how to prepare—especially for quantum algorithm engineers, quantum software/compilers, experimentalists, quantum control & firmware, cryo/readout engineers, quantum error correction researchers, verification/benchmarking specialists, and quantum‑adjacent product managers. Who this is for: Quantum algorithm/applications engineers, compiler/optimisation engineers, control/firmware engineers, experimental physicists & hardware engineers (superconducting, trapped ion, photonic, spin/neutral atom), cryogenics & RF/microwave, QEC researchers, verification/benchmarking specialists, quantum‑HPC orchestration engineers, and product/BD roles in the UK quantum ecosystem.

Why Quantum Computing Careers in the UK Are Becoming More Multidisciplinary

Quantum computing has long been considered an elite subfield of physics and computer science. But as quantum technologies advance—from fault-tolerant hardware to quantum algorithms and quantum cryptography—they’re moving closer to real applications in finance, materials simulation, optimisation, cryptography and more. As this transition happens, UK quantum computing careers are becoming increasingly multidisciplinary. Quantum systems are no longer just the domain of physicists and quantum software engineers. If quantum technologies are to be trusted, adopted and regulated, professionals must also incorporate expertise in law, ethics, psychology, linguistics & design. In practice, quantum computing projects now intersect with data governance, risk, human interaction, explainability and communication. In this article, we’ll explore why quantum computing careers in the UK are shifting to multidisciplinary roles, how these five supporting fields intersect with quantum work, and what job-seekers & employers should do to keep up in this evolving frontier.

Quantum Computing Team Structures Explained: Who Does What in a Modern Quantum Department

Quantum computing has shifted from lab curiosity to the next frontier of high-impact computing. Across the UK, universities, national labs, start-ups, and established tech and finance firms are building quantum teams to explore algorithms, design hardware, and deliver quantum-ready software. As momentum grows, so does the need for clear, robust team structures. Because quantum R&D spans physics, engineering, computer science, and product, ambiguity about who does what can slow progress, increase risk, and inflate costs. This guide maps the typical roles in a modern quantum computing department, how they collaborate across the research-to-product lifecycle, skills and backgrounds UK employers expect, indicative salary ranges, common pitfalls, and practical ways to structure teams that move fast without breaking science.