At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the scientific strategy for quantum RF systems and mentor a dynamic science team.
- Company: Join Infleqtion, a pioneering global quantum technology company transforming the future.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, unlimited PTO, generous pension contributions, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Embrace your uniqueness in a supportive, inclusive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in quantum technology and work with cutting-edge innovations.
- Qualifications: PhD in AMO physics and experience in leading technical projects.
The predicted salary is between 66150 - 80850 £ per year.
Description
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Infleqtion is a global quantum technology company solving the world’s most challenging problems.
The company harnesses quantum mechanics to build and integrate quantum computers, sensors, and networks.
From fundamental physics to leading edge commercial products, Infleqtion enables “quantum everywhere” through our ecosystem of devices and platforms.
Our mission is to commercialise atom-based quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in performance and computing applications.
LOCATION
Infleqtion has offices in the USA, United Kingdom, and Australia.
This is a full-time position based in Kidlington, Oxford.
Work from home permitted up to 2 days per week based on business needs and manager approval.
Requirements
Position Summary
We are looking for an exceptional Lead Scientist to accelerate product development for our quantum RF (QRF) systems in the UK.
The Lead Scientist is the scientific authority within a portfolio, responsible for the physics-led direction, experimental strategy, scientific performance, technical interpretation, and scientific risk management.
The role combines hands-on technical leadership with team leadership and review, ensuring that experimental work, modelling, data analysis, and scientific decision-making are technically sound, robust, credible, and aligned with the portfolio roadmap, programme objectives, and product goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and lead the scientific and experimental strategy for the portfolio.
- Own the physics architecture, key scientific assumptions, and technical performance models.
- Guide experimental design, data analysis, technical interpretation, and performance validation.
- Identify and manage scientific risks, uncertainties, and performance limitations, working closely with the project manager to document these clearly in the risk register along with mitigation strategies.
- Provide hands-on technical leadership where required, including review of experimental plans, results, and technical conclusions.
- Lead, mentor, and line-manage the portfolio science team.
- Work closely with the engineering team to ensure scientific requirements are translated into robust engineering requirements and system designs.
- Support the Portfolio Lead in roadmap development, proposal development, customer engagement, and technical decision-making.
- Contribute to IP identification, technical publications, and scientific communications in collaboration with the Portfolio Lead and CTO.
- Represent the portfolio scientific credibility with customers, funders, collaborators, and internal stakeholders.
- Required Qualifications
- Ph D in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics
- Technical Knowledge and Experience
- Multiple years of relevant and progressive experience in a technical project team context, including several years of leadership experience.
- Rydberg physics and their interactions, particularly when applied to Rydberg-atom electrometry.
- Substantial experience post-Ph D manipulating atoms, ions, or molecules with light, including optical design, alignment, and control of complex laser systems.
- Experience working with complex, advanced technology systems combining mechanical, electrical, RF, optical, and software components.
- Working knowledge of control systems and signal processing.
- Experience with proposal, experimentation, design, development, and transition of technically complex solutions and/or products.
- Experience working with cross-functional teams (engineering, science, product, and operational stakeholders).
- Direct and hands-on experience supporting externally funded projects.
- Ability to work and communicate with all levels of an organisation; professional-level communication skills, including verbal, written, and presentation skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Desired Skills
- Ability to effectively influence and drive project team members and stakeholders.
- Experience in RF electronics and signal processing techniques.
- Proficiency in a programming language (e. g. Python, Rust, C++).
- Deep knowledge in time and frequency measurements.
- Understanding of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) practices and modelling workplace safety culture.
- Experience of project management techniques and different project types (agile and waterfall).
- Familiarity with mechanical, optical, and electronic design packages (e. g. Solid Works, Zemax, Altium).
- Travel
- Up to 10% travel, including international travel, may be required
- Working conditions and Physical Requirements
Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment.
Able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in-person).
Will involve sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and carrying up to 10 kg.
Equal Opportunity
Regardless of your interest in the quantum industry, you can take pride in the fact that Infleqtion is building an ecosystem of quantum technologies and commercial products, driving the industry towards the future.
Studies reveal that while men apply for jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the requirements, women and other groups tend to apply only when they meet all the criteria.
If you believe you have the potential but don't meet every single point in our job advertisement, please don't hesitate to contact us!
We would love to chat with you and see how you could bring great value to our team.
Our goal is to find exceptional individuals who can enrich our team culture, actively contribute, and have a genuine passion for their work.
Here you have freedom to embrace your whole self: who you love, your gender identity and expression, skin colour, age, appearance, disability, neurodiversity, DNA, military/veteran status, citizenship, and other factors that make up who you are.
Your uniqueness is valued, welcomed, and appreciated here.
We are dedicated to providing a positive workplace and base all employment decisions on your qualifications, performance, merits, as well as business needs.
We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Notice to Recruitment Agencies
Infleqtion does not accept unsolicited CV's from agencies. Infleqtion is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited CV's.
Benefits
In addition to your base compensation, we offer a generous Total Rewards program which includes:
- Competitive salary
- Bonus Program
- Incentive Stock Option Plan
- Unlimited PTO subject to fair usage
- Generous company 10% pension contribution regardless of employee contribution
- Cycle to work scheme
- Tax efficient technology schemes
- BUPA Private Healthcare Insurance once probationary period is successfully completed
- Life assurance (4 x salary)
QRF Lead Scientist in Oxford employer: Infleqtion
Infleqtion offers a dynamic work environment in Oxford, where innovation meets collaboration. As a Finance Operations Analyst, you will benefit from a culture that prioritises employee growth through continuous learning and development opportunities, while also enjoying competitive compensation and a supportive team atmosphere. Join us to be part of a pioneering quantum technology firm that values precision and scalability in its operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land QRF Lead Scientist in Oxford
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Infleqtion, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Infleqtion. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace QRF Lead Scientist in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Infleqtion. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Infleqtion. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Infleqtion
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Infleqtion. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Infleqtion to drive research projects forward.
