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Head of Quantum Hardware

Nu Quantum
Cambridge
3 days ago
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About the role

Reporting to the VP of Engineering, and with close collaboration with the VP Technology and other Heads of department, the role will involve directing and overseeing the development of Quantum Hardware at Nu Quantum, supporting the technical teams towards delivering cutting‑edge full‑stack quantum networking systems. The successful candidate will draw on technical mastery and leadership skills to guide and coordinate project‑based Group Leads in this system‑development endeavour. They will be supported by the management team, specifically by the VP of Technology, the Programme Manager and the VP of Engineering for day‑to‑day operations. Beyond that, there will also be opportunities for creative thinking and contributing to the company’s strategy and technical roadmap.


Responsibilities

  • Line management of Discipline leads within the quantum hardware teams (Quantum Error Correction and AMO experimental and theory teams), facilitating their development towards career goals and aligning their skill growth with the needs of Nu Quantum.
  • Plan, budget and allocate resources (including hiring) across all stages of project delivery.
  • Provide technical decision and delivery leadership: assist with system architecture, decision making, robust workflows and technical delivery.
  • Champion high‑quality technical documentation, including requirements, technical reporting and decision making.
  • Coordinate project delivery with the Project Management Office and Finance teams.
  • Embody company values, champion scientific integrity and foster a collaborative environment where diversity and inclusion is actively used as a resource.
  • Nurture a culture of innovation and exploration, empowering teams to push boundaries and pioneer new solutions.

Requirements

  • Postgraduate‑level qualification in experimental physics related to quantum computing or quantum simulation.
  • Experience running and developing a team, and being responsible for technical delivery (e.g. Technical Leader in industry or Lecturer‑level group lead in academia).
  • Technical expertise spanning qubit control, quantum optics and optics.
  • Appetite for learning system‑engineering practices, using industry tools and grasping Nu Quantum’s subsystem technologies.
  • Excellent team player and track record of having supervised and mentored other Scientists/Researchers.
  • Proactive, natural problem solver with a ‘can‑do’ attitude, able to support others and contribute to continuous improvement.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong data management and record‑keeping ability to facilitate collaborative workflow.

Desirable skills and experience (beneficial)

  • Industry experience.
  • Experience working within the field of Quantum Error Correction.
  • Technical expertise with electronics and control systems.
  • Experience with budget planning.

Benefits

  • Flexible working options
  • Group DIS cover (4× salary)
  • 1 month paid sabbatical after 4 years of service
  • Generous employee referral scheme
  • Private medical and dental cover (with Vitality and Bupa)
  • On‑site gym membership
  • Cycle scheme
  • Refreshments, including fruit and beverages, are available in the office.
  • 28 days annual leave, including a 3‑day company shutdown period + UK public holidays
  • Option to purchase up to 5 days holiday per year
  • Enhanced paid family leave policies
  • Access to the Cambridge Botanical Gardens

Seniority level

Director


Employment type

Full‑time


Job function

Other


Industries

Technology, Information and Internet


Location

Cambridge, UK


Contract Type

Full‑time, Permanent


Visa sponsorship

Available


Nu Quantum is at the forefront of quantum computing and advanced technology. We value diverse perspectives and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those from under‑represented and marginalised communities.


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