About us
Xen Quantum is building next-generation quantum communication systems based on silicon photonics and patented architecture, enabling practical and scalable quantum key distribution (QKD). Our technology simplifies implementation and lays the foundation for high-volume manufacturing and real-world deployment.
Position Overview
We’re looking for a Quantum Communication System Developer to join as one of our first technical hires and play a defining role in shaping both our technology and the engineering culture.
This is a hands‑on role at the intersection of quantum optics, photonics, cryptography and system engineering – spanning laboratory development, system integration, and early field deployment with customers.
What You’ll Do
- Develop, integrate, and characterize quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, with a focus on optical subsystems and protocol execution
- Design, test, and evaluate photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum communication applications
- Build and characterize optical and electro‑optical subsystems and prototypes
- Analyze experimental data and feed results back into system and product design
- Design and execute experiments, pilot trials, and early customer deployments
- Work closely with founders and collaborators to develop deployable systems
What We’re Looking For
Education & Experience
- MSc or PhD in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field
- Demonstrated excellence in experimental quantum optics and optical communications
- At least 3 years of hands‑on laboratory experience in relevant topics
- Proven ability to design, build, and characterize optical systems independently
Technical Skills
- Hands‑on experience with optical system construction and characterisation
- Fibre‑optic systems experience (lasers, modulators, detectors, fibre components)
- Electro‑optical lab experience, including familiarity with RF signals and measurements
- Experience building, characterising, and controlling QKD systems
- Scientific programming experience (Python and relevant libraries; C/C++ highly valued)
- Experience with Linux‑based systems and version control (git)
- Statistical data analysis and visualisation
- Experience with numerical modelling and simulations
- Strong project management and self‑organisation skills, independently planning and executing work while reliably meeting timelines, technical milestones, and other constraints
Nice to Have
- Experience with photonic integrated circuit design and characterisation
- Experience with field trials or deployed optical systems
- Exposure to customer‑facing technical work
This is a wish list, not a requirements list – if you have a technical background, are excited about what we’re building and want to be part of an early‑stage start‑up, we want to hear from you
How You Work
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Creative and flexible problem‑solver, able to work around real-world constraints
- Comfortable operating independently in an early‑stage environment
- Willing to take ownership of the responsibilities associated with the role, and help define the technology development
Compensation & Benefits
- £40,000 – £60,000 pa, depending on experience
- Company shares options plan
- Enhanced annual leave (25 days + bank holidays)
- Primarily in‑person working (in Cambridge, UK), with flexible options where possible
- Early‑hire role with genuine scope to grow with – and help shape – the business
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