Senior Developer - Emerging Tech (AI & Quantum Computing in Finance) in Southampton

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Developer - Emerging Tech, with expertise in both advanced AI methods and quantum computing, specifically applied to the financial services industry. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and implementing innovative financial applications that utilize cutting-edge AI and quantum computing technologies. This position offers a unique opportunity to drive technical innovation, solve complex financial challenges, and be at the forefront of transformative technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• AI Solutions Development: Develop and implement advanced AI models and techniques for financial applications such as portfolio optimization, fraud detection, risk modeling, and predictive analytics.
• Quantum Computing Solutions: Utilize quantum computing hardware, software and algorithms to tackle future financial challenges that benefit from quantum speedup, such as portfolio optimization problems, Monte Carlo simulations, and complex risk modelling.
• Hybrid AI-Quantum Approaches: Explore hybrid models where appropriate, combining classical AI with quantum optimization techniques to address complex problems in finance.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with data scientists and financial analysts to ensure alignment between technical developments and financial objectives. Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical teams, including business executives, to ensure project goals are met.
• Research & Development: Stay up to date with the latest advancements in AI and quantum computing. Contribute to research papers, white papers, and technical publications that demonstrate the progress of these technologies in finance.
• Project Leadership: Lead complex technical projects, working across multiple teams and stakeholders. Manage projects to ensure timely delivery and quality results while navigating matrixed organizations and collaborating with external partners in academia and industry.
• Workforce Reskilling & Mentorship: Support the internal reskilling efforts by mentoring coworkers and providing training on AI and quantum computing principles. Share knowledge across the organization to cultivate a culture of innovation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a STEM field (e.g., Computer Science, Software Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Data Science, etc.).
• Strong experience working with advanced machine learning techniques (e.g., deep learning, GenAI) and deep understanding of risk, governance and ethics.
• Experience working with data (Data visualization, Data preprocessing, Exploratory Data Analysis).
• Proficiency with quantum programs (Encoding methods, transpilation, error mitigation, interpreting results).
• Knowledge of Quantum SDKs (Qiskit Preferred) and quantum algorithms (e.g. variational quantum algorithm, quantum approximate optimization algorithm, quantum machine learning algorithms).
• Familiarity with accessing and running quantum programs on different hardware platforms (e.g., superconducting, trapped ions, neutral atoms, annealers).
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, cross-functional projects, ensuring timely delivery and meeting business goals.
• Comfortable working with matrixed organizations and external partners.
• Strong ability to present complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including senior executives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in academic or industry-based research, with a track record of publishing papers, white papers, or speaking at conferences.
• Ability to collaborate with external academic and industry partners on advanced technologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience applying quantum computing to real‑world financial services use cases, such as portfolio optimization, index tracking, risk analysis, Monte Carlo simulation, or related optimization and forecasting problems.
• Hands‑on experience designing and delivering hybrid AI–quantum solutions in enterprise environments, including the integration of advanced AI techniques (e.g., LLMs, knowledge graphs, or advanced analytics) with quantum algorithms and workflows.
• Proven leadership or significant contribution to the creation, scaling, or operation of centralized emerging technology labs, hubs, or centers of excellence focused on quantum computing and/or advanced AI within large, matrixed organizations.
• Significant experience contributing to commercial quantum computing initiatives, including client delivery, applied research, go‑to‑market activities, or the development of regional, national, or enterprise‑level quantum strategies.
• Experience operating at the intersection of consulting, research, and technology delivery in highly regulated industries, with a strong preference for financial services.
• Demonstrated experience teaching, mentoring, or formally educating others in quantum computing and/or AI, including university‑level instruction, professional training programs, or internal workforce reskilling initiatives.
• Track record of contributing to peer‑reviewed publications, industry white papers, technical reports, or conference proceedings in the fields of quantum computing, applied AI, or their use in commercial settings.

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.