Quantum Research Engineer

Location: Reading, United KingdomIn fast changing markets, customers worldwide rely on Thales. Thales is a business where brilliant people from all over the world come together to share ideas and inspire each other. In aerospace, transportation, defence, security and space, our architects design innovative solutions that make our tomorrow's possible.Together we offer fantastic opportunities for committed employees to learn and develop their career with us. At Thales UK, we research, develop, and supply technology and services that impact the lives of millions of people each day to make life better, and keep us safer. We innovate across the major industries of Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space. Your health and well-being matters to us and that’s why we offer you the flexibility to do what’s important to you; whether that’s part time hours, job sharing, home working, or the ability to flex your start and finish times. Where possible, we support a working pattern that suits your lifestyle and helps you reach your ambitions.Quantum Research Engineer****Location: Reading, full-time hybrid working with 3 days in the office plus travelJoin Thales and be at the forefront of specialising in sensing and algorithm project related work, where you'll work towards ensuring the real-world exploitation of quantum technologies including novel sensors, communications and computing.What the role has to offer* Opportunity to design cutting-edge quantum algorithms, advance pioneering research exploiting quantum principles, and deliver revolutionary, real-world solutions for a diverse range of clients* Collaborate with Thales’ global quantum network across research, industry, academia, and government to drive innovation and deliver impactful, revolutionary technologies* Act as subject matter expert, and contribute to planning of future research activities, helping to identify and formulate proposals for funding opportunitiesOur Opportunity In this role you will dive into cutting-edge, low-TRL (Technology Readiness Level) research and development focused on the revolutionary field of quantum technologies - spanning sensing, communications, algorithms, and computing. Collaborating with a small but dynamic team to push the boundaries of what's possible, you will contribute to pioneering research, exploiting emerging novel technology for real-world benefit, and crafting compelling bids for external funding. By working closely with external technology partners, you'll help shape a strategic roadmap that brings quantum technologies from concept to real-world applications across diverse business use cases. This is your chance to be part of a visionary journey that will redefine the future of technology at Thales.If you have a strong background in physics, mathematics, computer science, or related fields, coupled with expertise in quantum R&D and algorithm programming, we want to hear from you. We welcome applications from existing Quantum Research Engineers or Quantum Technology Researchers looking for their next move.Building a Future, we can all trust.Thales leverages quantum sensing for navigation and stealth detection, quantum communications will secure the future’s sensitive information and quantum computing to solve currently intractable real-world problems.What we offer you We offer a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our employees’ wellbeing and professional growth, which includes: Performance related annual bonus (VCP) Pension – match like-for-like up to 7% of annual base salary Life Assurance – 2 x base salary minimum (8 x salary if part of the pension scheme) Income Protection – 50% of salary less state benefits for 5 years* Annual Leave – 201 hours, bank holidays, plus 1 company day* Private Medical Insurance - Couples cover* Half day every Friday, usually finishing around 1:00pm* 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme* 24 hours paid leave for volunteering activities* Access to flexible benefits and discounts – dental insurance, buying & selling annual leave, cycle to work, and many moreKey Responsibilities and Tasks* Collaborate effectively within research teams while also working independently with flexibility to explore new areas and adapt to diverse working styles* Identify and evaluate quantum technology use cases across Thales, assessing feasibility and potential integration into future products and services* Develop proof-of-concept demonstrators and contribute to technical roadmaps for quantum algorithms and software evolution* Lead proposal development for external funding opportunities and mentor graduate researchers, including PhDs and interns* Design, develop, and implement algorithms across domains such as Big Data, optimization, cryptography, decision support, information fusion, image and sensor processing, waveform design, and complexity analysis* Manage project progress, reporting, customer communication, and test algorithms in real-world environments to ensure reliability and performanceAbout YouAt Thales, we are committed to equal opportunities and welcome all talented individuals to consider joining our team. So even if you don't match every statement below but feel you have some of the experience, knowledge or skills needed for this role, we encourage you to apply. It will take all of us working together to deliver solutions to the world’s most critical challenges.Essential:* Hold a 2:1 honours degree, master’s, or PhD in physics, mathematics, computer science, or related fields (e.g., AI, Algorithm Engineering), with professional membership and engineering registration encouraged* Experience in quantum technology research & development (R&D) across industry and/or academia, with strong knowledge of quantum physics and technologies (e.g. sensing, communications & computing)* Proficient in algorithm design, programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C), and skilled at implementing, optimizing, and validating algorithms on digital platforms* Capable of critically analysing system requirements, developing specifications, and staying current with scientific advancements* Proficient in Microsoft Office and effective at interpreting customer needs, communicating complex technical concepts, and building strong relationships* Collaborative with strong problem-solving abilities delivering innovative, practical, and compliant solutions* Excellent time management, prioritization, flexibility, and commitment to continuous learning, mentoring, and combining creative thinking with sound engineering practiceIf you’re passionate about innovation, enjoy collaborative research environments, and want to make a tangible impact through breakthrough quantum solutions, apply now and help us lead the quantum revolution. Security Clearance StatementThis role will require SC Clearance. It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant will undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance. Please visit the UKSV website for further guidance.To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years. In some circumstances, a minimum of 3 years’ residence in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the National Security Vetting (NSV) Agency -#LI-VG1In line with Thales' Baseline Security requirements, candidates will be asked to provide evidence of identity, eligibility to work in the UK and employment and/or education history for up to three years. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the Defence Business Services National Security
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