Head of Quantum Hardware in Cambridge

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Location: Cambridge, UK

Visa Sponsorship available

Nu Quantum is at the forefront of quantum computing and advanced technology, driven by innovation, diversity, and a commitment to excellence. We’re creating an environment where brilliant minds from all backgrounds collaborate to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Founded to commercialise research generated over the last decade at the Cavendish Laboratory, Nu Quantum is on a mission to shape the future of quantum information systems. We’re working on exciting technology that will improve the utility and accelerate the time-to-market of quantum computing systems. We integrate novel quantum photonic technology to form an efficient and scalable quantum networking infrastructure in partnership with world-leading companies and academic groups.

Nu Quantum is seeking a skilled Head of Quantum Hardware to join our diverse team, driving the development of innovative and scalable quantum networking hardware. In this role, you will lead and support the AMO department, composed of 2 AMO based groups: Theory and Simulation and Experimental (currently circa 11 people total across both teams, but with high likelihood of growth). The AMO groups are currently interfacing our integrated microcavity-technology with trapped-ion qubits and benchmarking the performance of quantum networking test beds and protocols. You will serve as a key technical authority for the evolution of our test beds, contributing directly to our technical strategy and roadmap.

A significant aspect of this role is team leadership and support, ensuring the success and growth of the AMO groups both technically and holistically. You will play an important role in shaping and fostering our company culture, embodying and promoting our core values.

You bring experience in all phases of project delivery (from definition and planning, to development and delivery). In particular you thrive in an environment where you will be both a leader and directly involved in delivering deep technical tasks.

Responsibilities

• Manage the AMO groups, driving a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement and accountability. Monitoring performance of direct reports and providing regular feedback through Nu Quantum’s performance review process and 1:1’s.
• Delivery of high quality, technical work from their groups, supporting the development of Nu Quantum’s quantum networking test beds.
• Close collaboration with the other Department Heads, Architects, Product and Technical Executive leadership to create and deliver technical roadmap.
• Manage group resourcing, through analysis of skill gaps and co-ordination of hiring to meet the needs of Nu Quantum technical programmes.
• Coordinate with Operations on infrastructure projects and lead AMO lab expansion projects (requirements, lab layout).
• Take responsibility for AMO planning, budgeting, and resource allocation (including hiring) across all stages of project delivery and the product development process.
• Collaborate closely with the PMO team, acting as the technical authority for the test bed systems deliverables in Nu Quantum’s technology development programmes.
• Own, and continuously improve, processes and tools for the AMO team as Nu Quantum continues to grow.
• Responsible for championing high-quality technical documentation.
• Provide day-to-day leadership, mentoring, and professional development to AMO Engineers and AMO Group leads.
• Collaborate with the senior leadership team to ensure alignment in culture, roadmap, and technical goals across the Engineering and Research teams.
• Embody our 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 with running and developing a team, being responsible for technical delivery and budget planning.
• Excellent team player and natural problem solver with a ‘can do’ attitude.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset, with the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organisation (from associate‑level employees to C‑Suite).

Desirable skills and experience (not required, but beneficial):

• Experience with industrialisation 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

At Nu Quantum, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where people of all identities, orientations, backgrounds, and experiences are empowered. We value diverse perspectives as a source of creativity and innovation and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented and marginalised communities. Joining Nu Quantum means joining a team where you can grow professionally and be part of an inspiring mission to shape the future of technology.

Benefits include refreshments, including fruit and beverages, available in the office, flexible working options, and 28 days annual leave, inclusive of a 3-day company shutdown period.