At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop cutting-edge quantum computing systems to tackle big scientific challenges.
- Company: Join UKRI, a leader in quantum technologies and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, flexible hours, and excellent learning opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with significant career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in quantum science with world-class experts and facilities.
- Qualifications: PhD in physics, engineering, or computing; hands-on experience in quantum systems.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Salary: Band E S1 £58,346
Location: RAL - Oxfordshire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time (We understand the importance of work-life balance, and are happy to discuss the possibility of flexible working with applicants)
Come and do the kind of science that made you want to become a scientist. Explore the unknown and get to grips with the biggest challenges in Big Science. And, alongside world class engineers, technicians and technologists, use everything you’ve learnt to find real answers that shape society and improve lives. Put simply, discover the kind of impact you can make when you work with some of the best facilities and brightest scientists in the world.
About Us:
As part of the UK's National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP), UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is leading a programme to establish a National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC). This includes a commitment of £93m over 5 years, dedicated to drive development in the field of Quantum Computing and to place the UK at the forefront of the field. Our primary purpose is to fill a key gap in the research and innovation landscape addressing the challenge of scaling quantum computing.
About the Role:
The NAQC team’s mission is to:
- Design, build and deploy cutting-edge open-source NAQC hardware.
- Build capability to act as UK’s trusted authority on NAQC.
- Convene the UK NAQC community and train the future NAQC workforce.
As Senior Quantum Scientist (AMO), you will work as part of the NQCC’s Neutral Atom Quantum Computing (NAQC) team. The role is suitable for candidates with strong experimental or engineering skills and experience who are looking to develop into system-level roles. You will contribute to development and deployment of NQCC’s open-source quantum computing platforms to support our technology roadmap, integrating components into scalable quantum computers and pushing the boundaries of platform performance in the UK. The role offers the opportunity to influence the technical direction of the national NAQC programme whilst remaining closely engaged with hands-on experimental and engineering work in the lab.
Key Responsibilities:
- System and Sub-System Development: Design, develop, assemble, and optimise neutral atom quantum computing sub-systems (e.g. QPU, laser systems, control systems). Develop and run experiments to characterise performance and improve qubit fidelity, stability, and scalability. Contribute to the integration of sub-systems into full-stack quantum computing platforms.
- System-Level Planning and Architecture: Contribute to system-level design, including requirements, interfaces, and performance targets. Support the development of scaling strategies and system architectures. Explore trade-offs across subsystems and their impact on overall system performance.
- Open Architecture and System Blueprinting: Contribute to the development of open-architecture policy & vision documents, system definitions, and system performance reports. Ensure work is documented to support reproducibility and knowledge transfer.
- Collaboration and Ecosystem Engagement: Work closely with internal teams across the NQCC (hardware, software, applications). Collaborate with external partners including academia, industry, and national laboratories. Participate in site visits, technical exchanges, workshops, and community engagement activities, contributing to the development of the UK quantum computing ecosystem and supply chain.
- Technical Leadership and Contribution: Take ownership of technical areas or sub-systems. Provide technical input into project direction, planning, and delivery. Influence internal and external collaborators through clear communication of technical results.
- Dissemination: Publish results in peer-reviewed journals. Present work at conferences, workshops, and internal reviews.
The successful candidate will demonstrate a pragmatic, delivery-focused approach and work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. They will have strong attention to detail and the ability to interpret and clearly communicate technical performance data at both component and system levels. They will be comfortable developing quantum technologies in a laser lab.
Person Specification:
We offer significant development opportunities at the NQCC, but as a starting point you should be able to demonstrate some of the following; The below criteria will be scored during Shortlisting (S), Interview (I) or both (S&I).
- Educated to a PhD – level (or equivalent experience) in a physics, engineering, computing or a related discipline. (S&I)
- Strong technical knowledge and understanding of the principles of quantum computing and / or closely related quantum technologies. (S&I)
- Experience working with neutral atom quantum computing systems & hardware, or significant experience in a closely related quantum technology which may include publication. (S)
- Hands-on experience developing, operating, integrating, and troubleshooting experimental quantum systems. (S&I)
- Experience designing, implementing, and automating experiments, including development of software, scripts, or control routines for system operation and characterisation. (S&I)
- Experience of characterisation, analysis, and refinement of neutral atom qubits and device-level performance through experimental measurement, calibration, and performance analysis, including fidelity, noise, stability, and error mechanisms. (S&I)
- Strong communication skills and proven ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. (S&I)
Employee Benefits:
We are offering this position with a whole host of benefits including:
- 30 days holiday (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days).
- Flexible working hours.
- An excellent defined salary pension scheme.
- Easily accessible public transport links/ free parking.
- Excellent learning and development opportunities.
- Cycle to work scheme.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they are appointed. The required security clearance needed is CTC. For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the United Kingdom for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the UK for the last 3 years as the role requires CTC clearance. However, UK residency less than the outlined periods may not bar you from gaining National Security Vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder/Recruiting Manager listed for further advice.
Please note for anyone who requires sponsorship we can review on a case by case basis. Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager.
Join us and discover what's possible!
About Us UKRI - UK Research and Innovation UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation. Supporting some of the world's most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.
How we support EDI in the workforce At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community.
Disability Confident Employer As users of the disability confident scheme, any candidate who opts into the scheme and best meets the essential criteria, will be shortlisted for interview. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
About the Team The Science and Technology Facilities Council is a world-leading multi-disciplinary science organisation where curiosity-driven, blue-skies thinking meets practical, application-led science and engineering. Our goal is to deliver economic, societal, scientific and international benefits to the UK and its people – and more broadly to the world.
Senior Quantum Scientist (AMO) in England employer: NQCC
NQCC is an attractive employer due to its commitment to work-life balance and flexible working arrangements. The organization fosters a collaborative culture where employees can engage in groundbreaking research alongside leading experts. Opportunities for professional development and hands-on experience in quantum technology make it a unique workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Quantum Scientist (AMO) in England
✨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 NQCC, 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
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Quantum Scientist (AMO) in England
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 NQCC. 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 NQCC. 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 NQCC
✨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 NQCC. 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 NQCC to drive research projects forward.
