Product Manager - Optical and Photonic Systems

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Location: Cambridge, UK

Closing date for applications:Monday 18th August 2025 at 10am

Visa Sponsorship available

Join Nu Quantum - Shaping the Future of Technology

Nu Quantum is at the forefront of quantum computing and advanced technology, driven by innovation, diversity, and a commitment to excellence. We’re creating an environment where brilliant minds from all backgrounds collaborate to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Founded to commercialise research generated over the last decade at the Cavendish Laboratory, Nu Quantum is on a mission to shape the future of quantum information systems.

We’re working on exciting technology that will improve the utility and accelerate the time-to-market of quantum computing systems. We integrate novel quantum photonic technology to form an efficient and scalable quantum networking infrastructure in partnership with world-leading companies and academic groups.

About the role

The role will focus on the development of our Quantum Networking (QNU) products that will be the essential core of large fault-tolerant quantum computing systems. The successful candidate will work within a highly collaborative team and work closely with in-house expertise across quantum optics, control and software. The specific area of responsibility will be our quantum-optical ‘Dynamic Entangler’ comprising low-loss switching and high-performance single-photon detectors forming a quantum entanglement distribution platform.

What You'll be doing

• Understand the market needs for datacenter-scale entanglement distribution and communicate these to senior leadership and other stakeholders within the business.
• Develop and own a detailed product roadmap of our entanglement distribution solutions alongside the Architecture Lead, ensuring technical capabilities align with our ambitious commercial goals.
• Work alongside peer Product Managers to ensure product roadmaps across our technology streams are aligned with the company’s overall vision.
• Work closely with a range of internal engineering disciplines including control, optics, photonics, electronics, mechanical engineering and software to meet performance and reliability metrics.
• Engage with Scientists and experts internally to understand how quantum theory work informs our entanglement distribution hardware.
• Develop market awareness, competitive landscape analysis, and identify prospective customers and collaborators, working alongside Business Development functions.
• Help negotiate commercial and technical terms with key suppliers.
• Develop and execute product launch strategies alongside the Marketing and Communication function, including the creation of strong and clear internal and external communications that translate technical details into concise and accurate messaging.

Requirements

What we're looking for

• Degree or post-graduate qualification in physics, optics, engineering, materials science, or related discipline.
• Familiarity with the principles and applications of quantum physics and technology.
• A willingness to explore commercial needs, productisation strategies, and market positioning.
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and show a genuine curiosity to listen to and learn from others.
• Evidence of taking a proactive lead in solving complex multi-disciplinary problems. Able to work effectively and autonomously in the presence of uncertainty and in an exciting, rapidly evolving ecosystem.

• Ability to be empathetic and humble with internal and external stakeholders.

Desirable skills and experience (not required, but beneficial):

• Experience in quantum optical experiments, photonics, optics or related technology.
• Experience of bringing a product with a high level of technical complexity from concept to reality, ideally in a commercial context.
• Evidence of commercial awareness or experience working within technical sales/support. 
• Familiarity with photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology
• Skilled in the use of project, task, and version management tools, such as Notion, YouTrack, GitHub
• Familiarity with customer engagement and relationship management
• Evidence of translating scientific or technical concepts into clear communication to diverse audiences

Benefits

Why work with us?

At Nu Quantum, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where people of all identities, orientations, backgrounds, and experiences are empowered. We value diverse perspectives as a source of creativity and innovation and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented and marginalised communities. Joining Nu Quantum means joining a team where you can grow professionally and be part of an inspiring mission to shape the future of technology.

Benefits

• Flexible working options
• 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 
• Group DIS cover (4 x salary)
• Time for Charity work
• Access to the Cambridge Botanical Gardens