Head of Quantum Hardware

Job Details

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Location: Cambridge, UK

Visa Sponsorship available

Role Overview

Nu Quantum is seeking a skilled Head of Quantum Hardware to lead the AMO department, focusing on the development of innovative and scalable quantum networking hardware. The role involves managing two AMO groups – Theory and Simulation, and Experimental – and driving the technical strategy and roadmap for integrated microcavity‑technology with trapped‑ion qubits. You will provide technical leadership, team support, and contribute to the company culture and values.

Responsibilities

• Manage the AMO groups, fostering collaboration, continuous improvement and accountability.
• Deliver high‑quality technical work and support the development of Nu Quantum’s quantum networking test beds.
• Collaborate with Department Heads, Architects, Product and Technical Executive leadership to create and deliver the technical roadmap.
• Manage group resourcing, analysing skill gaps and coordinating hiring to meet technical programme needs.
• Coordinate with Operations on infrastructure projects and lead AMO lab expansion projects (requirements, lab layout).
• Plan, budget and allocate resources across all stages of project delivery and product development.
• Act as the technical authority for the PMO team’s test bed systems deliverables.
• Own and continuously improve processes and tools for the AMO team.
• Champion high‑quality technical documentation.
• Provide day‑to‑day leadership, mentoring and professional development to AMO Engineers and Group leads.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure alignment of culture, roadmap and technical goals across Engineering and Research teams.
• Embody company values, champion scientific integrity and foster a collaborative working environment.

Requirements

• Postgraduate‑level qualification in AMO physics with applications relating to quantum computing or quantum simulation.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
• Strong organisational skills and experience with cross‑functional teamwork.
• Good knowledge of AMO and quantum optics theory.
• Hands‑on technical expertise in qubit control, optical system design and integrated electronics for experimental quantum platforms.
• Experience leading a team and responsible for technical delivery and budget planning.
• Excellent team player, natural problem solver with a ‘can do’ attitude.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset, capable of communicating at all organisational levels.
• Desirable but not required: industrialisation experience and interfacing with an Engineering team.
• Design and build of industrialised prototypes for quantum sensing or quantum computing.
• Experience in the design of ion‑traps.
• Knowledgeable in Quantum Error Correction with atomic/ionic systems.

Benefits

• Refreshments, including fruit and beverages, are available in the office.
• Flexible working options.
• 28 days annual leave, inclusive of a 3‑day company shutdown period + UK Bank Holidays.
• Option to purchase up to 5 days holiday per year.
• Access to the Cambridge Botanical Gardens.
• On‑site gym membership.
• Cycle scheme.
• Private Medical and Dental Cover (With Vitality and Bupa).
• Enhanced paid family leave policies.
• Generous Employee Referral Scheme.
• 1 month paid Sabbatical after 4 years of service.
• Group Life Assurance (4 x salary).

Nu Quantum is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Applications from all backgrounds, including under‑represented groups, are encouraged.

#J-18808-Ljbffr…