- Job Title: Quantum Innovation Sector Lead
Salary: £46,700 – £51,370 (Band E) or £56,900 – £62,590 (Band F) gross per annum dependent on experience.
Contract Type: 2x Permanent Positions
Hours: Part Time/Full Time (We understand the importance of work-life balance, and are happy to discuss the possibility of flexible working with applicants)
Location: Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire, UKTogether, our scientists, technologists, engineers, technicians and business support team explore the unknown and turn what they find into work that changes the world around us. Whether it’s sending probes into space or finding new ways to treat cancer, everyone here plays a vital role in making a positive difference in society.
Come and discover how much you can achieve when you’re surrounded by world-leading experts, encouraged to constantly learn and empowered to explore your curiosity.
Who are we?
The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) is a new research institution, funded through UK Research and Innovation, which is dedicated to accelerating the development of quantum computing by addressing the challenges of scaling up the technology. The Centre will work with businesses, the government and the research community to deliver quantum computing capabilities for the UK and support the growth of the emerging industry. The NQCC aims to give assured and direct access to early prototype machines for developers and promote the formation of a strong UK-based quantum computing supply chain.
A purpose-built facility for the NQCC is due to open shortly on the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire. Until then, the NQCC’s activities are taking place in other facilities on the Harwell Campus or at partnering institutions. The NQCC will sit alongside other departments within the STFC National Laboratories and is part of the wider National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP). The NQCC is a joint initiative of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
Our Benefits:
UK Research and Innovation recognises and values employees as individuals and aims to provide a pay and rewards package that motivates staff to perform to the best of their ability. The reward package includes a flexible working scheme, a Defined benefit pension scheme, 30 days annual leave allowance plus 10.5 bank holiday/privilege days and a number of other benefits.
What’s the purpose of this role?
We are recruiting for the role of Quantum Innovation Sector Lead, which requires stakeholder engagement and collaboration-building skills, coupled with technical expertise in quantum computing, quantum technologies or a related field, to support the delivery of the NQCC’s core objectives. We are seeking self-starters who are strategically minded, proactive and can readily apply their knowledge to understand technical and sector challenges.
You will work as part of the Innovation Team, alongside applications engineers, business development specialists and other sector experts, to deliver quantum readiness activities aligned to the key themes of awareness, engagement, evaluation, action and advocacy. Utilizing your technical and engagement skills, you will help to drive forward the NQCC’s innovation strategy, taking a lead on specific sector activities. You will work with the NQCC’s stakeholders in industry, academia and the public sector to build domain and sector knowledge. Using your technical knowledge, you will maintain a comprehensive understanding of the state-of-the-art in quantum computing and its potential applications, sharing your knowledge to the benefit of the NQCC’s stakeholders, and building an understanding of end-user requirements. Collaborating with applications engineers, algorithms developers and the wider technical team, you will help to drive the development of innovative solutions based on quantum computing. These activities meet our goals of delivering scalable quantum computing capabilities in support of our technology roadmap and building a quantum-ready UK economy.
Key projects will include quantum readiness for critical industry sectors, such as Financial Services, Pharmaceuticals, Advanced Materials, Energy, Healthcare, Security, Bio-Chemistry, etc.
What will I be doing?
• Contributing to the development and delivery of the NQCC’s innovation strategy for quantum computing to enable ‘quantum readiness’
• Working with prospective end users of quantum computing in industry, academia and the public sector to understand user requirements, build domain knowledge and explore the potential of quantum computing in applications.
• Through external collaboration, facilitating the development of new products, processes, services and business opportunities based on quantum computing.
• Engaging with NQCC applications engineers, algorithms developers and the wider technical team to support the development of innovative solutions for quantum computing
• Initiating, managing and reporting on related projects, working with the NQCC’s programme, project and performance evaluation managers, as required.
• Building strong relationships with other research and technology organisations, government, industry, business, trade associations and standards & regulatory bodies.
• Leading technology road mapping activities for critical sectors, as required
• Tracking and collating information on technical and commercial developments in quantum computing, and preparing analyses to identify trends
• Delivering engagement activities to build stakeholder networks and identify new opportunities for collaboration
• Presenting work at internal and external meetings both within the UK and internationally, and representing the NQCC at conferences, workshops, forums and in the media as appropriate.
• Making site visits to commercial and academic partners, as needed.What experience do I need?
We offer significant development opportunities at the NQCC, but as a starting point you should be able to demonstrate some of the following:
(Please note the below criteria will be assessed at the Shortlisting or Interview stage as indicated)
Essential:
• Educated to at least a Degree level or with equivalent experience in a field related to quantum computing, including physics, mathematics or computer science (S)
• You will have demonstrable prior experience and/or a broad-based knowledge of quantum computing, quantum technologies or a related field (S&I)
• Experience in stakeholder management in a client-facing, user engagement or outreach role, with a track record of building and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships (S&I)
• Experience in a technical research or scientific business development environment (S&I)
• Proven ability to run, manage and report on technical projects, together with knowledge or experience in measuring and monitoring performance and impact. (S&I)
• A good eye for detail in assimilating and presenting technical and market data
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, but also demonstrate autonomy within the area of responsibility (S&I)
• (Band F) Experience of innovation in a commercial environment (S)Desirable
• Significant experience of industry-focused end-user engagement or Industry experience in a client-facing role (S&I)
• A demonstrable understanding of intellectual property rights (IPR) management (S&I)
• Experience in creating and developing technology roadmaps (S&I)Join us and discover what’s possible!
About the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC)
As part of the UK’s National Quantum Technologies Programme, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is leading a programme to establish a National Quantum Computing Centre, which 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. The Centre is a joint initiative of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
A purpose-built National Quantum Computing Centre will be built and operated by UKRI at the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) campus in Oxfordshire. The Centre will be open and operational by December 2022. Until then, the NQCC’s activities are taking place in other facilities on the Harwell Campus or at partnering institutions. The NQCC will sit alongside other departments within the STFC National Laboratories and will be part of the broader National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP).
The primary purpose of the NQCC is to fill a key gap in the research and innovation landscape addressing the challenge of scaling quantum computing. However, this technology is immature and extensive development work is needed to scale the fundamental science to provide usable computing systems.
The NQCC’s initial 5 years will focus on developing a Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) machine to demonstrate the technology as well as software, algorithm and applications development. The longer-term aim is to scale the technology towards an error and noise-free fault-tolerant machine capability with benchmarking and verification demonstrated in collaboration with the UK and international partners. The NQCC will give assured and direct access to early prototype machines to developers and promote the formation of a strong UK-based quantum computing supply chain.
About The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
As one of Europe’s largest research organisations, we ask the biggest questions in the universe to find answers that change the world around us. We seek understanding. We’re proud of the impact we make. And we’re committed to helping build a globally competitive, knowledge-based UK economy. Being part of all this means contributing to work that pushes boundaries and creates possibilities. You’ll work with, and learn from, true experts. Whatever your role, you’ll be free to question and encouraged to share ideas. And, in a positive and supportive culture, you’ll discover just what a difference you can make when you’re equipped and inspired to excel.
We’re a place where curious minds thrive. Not bound by profit, we explore ideas that others don’t, ask questions that others won’t, and discover answers that others are not equipped to find. And, alongside Mars landings and black holes, we also explore diverse, international projects in everything from science and engineering to computing and technology. Whether it’s at the cutting edge or behind the scenes, our work is intellectually challenging. It’s very often ground-breaking. And it’s endlessly, irresistibly fascinating.
For more information about STFC please visit https://stfc.ukri.org/
You can also visit our careers site https://www.stfccareers.co.uk/
About UK Research Innovation (UKRI)
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.
More information can be found at www.ukri.org.
Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and a salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI.
The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.
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. For further information, please visit ‘How we support EDI in the workforce’.
Disability Confident Employer
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies. 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.
How to apply
Online applications are only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the ‘experience’ section of the application.
Additional Informationform of additional pay independent of salary may be applicable for this role for suitably qualified candidates.
Who are we?
As part of the UK’s National Quantum Technologies Programme, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is leading a programme to establish a National Quantum Computing Centre, which 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. The Centre is a joint initiative of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
A purpose-built National Quantum Computing Centre will be built and operated by UKRI at the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) campus in Oxfordshire. The Centre will be open and operational by December 2022. Until then, the NQCC’s activities are taking place in other facilities on the Harwell Campus or at partnering institutions. The NQCC will sit alongside other departments within the STFC National Laboratories and will be part of the broader National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP).
The primary purpose of the NQCC is to fill a key gap in the research and innovation landscape addressing the challenge of scaling quantum computing. However, this technology is immature and extensive development work is needed to scale the fundamental science to provide usable computing systems.
The NQCC’s initial 5 years will focus on developing a Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) machine to demonstrate the technology as well as software, algorithm and applications development. The longer-term aim is to scale the technology towards an error and noise-free fault-tolerant machine capability with benchmarking and verification demonstrated in collaboration with the UK and international partners. The NQCC will give assured and direct access to early prototype machines to developers and promote the formation of a strong UK-based quantum computing supply chain.
Our Benefits
UK Research and Innovation recognises and values employees as individuals and aims to provide a pay and rewards package that motivates staff to perform to the best of their ability. The reward package includes a flexible working scheme, a Defined benefit pension scheme (employer contribution – currently up to 26%), 30 days annual leave allowance plus 10.5 bank holiday/privilege days and a number of other benefits.
What’s the purpose of this role?
We are recruiting for the new role of Quantum Innovation Sector Lead in Quantum Computing, requiring stakeholder engagement and collaboration-building skills, coupled with technical expertise in quantum computing, quantum technologies or a related field, to support the delivery of the NQCC’s core objectives. We are seeking self-starters who are strategically minded, proactive and can readily apply their knowledge to understand technical and sector challenges.
You will work as part of the Innovation Team, alongside applications engineers and business development specialists, to deliver quantum readiness activities aligned to the key themes of awareness, engagement, evaluation, action and advocacy. Utilising your technical and engagement skills, you will help to drive forward the NQCC’s innovation strategy, taking a lead on end-user engagement. You will work with the NQCC’s stakeholders in industry, academia and the public sector to build domain and sector knowledge. Using your technical knowledge, you will maintain a deep understanding of the state-of-the-art in quantum computing and its potential applications, sharing your knowledge to the benefit of the NQCC’s stakeholders, and building an understanding of end-user requirements. Collaborating with applications engineers, algorithms developers and the wider technical team, you will help to drive the development of innovative solutions based on quantum computing. These activities meet the NQCC’s goals of delivering scalable quantum computing capabilities in support of our technology roadmap and building a quantum-ready UK economy.
Key projects will include quantum readiness for critical industry verticals such as Financial Services, Pharmaceuticals, Advanced Materials, Energy, Healthcare, Security and Bio-Chemistry.
The successful candidate must exhibit a pragmatic demeanor towards the work of others, particularly in a collaborative environment, whilst having a good eye for detail in interpreting and presenting technical and market data. Project support is provided via Quality Assurance, Monitoring and evaluation, Procurement and Project Leader support staff within the Operations team, as well as quantum information processing specialists across the technology team and external expertise.
What will I be doing?
- Contributing to the development and delivery of the NQCC’s innovation strategy for quantum computing to enable ‘quantum readiness’
- Working with prospective end-users of quantum computing in industry, academia and the public sector to understand user requirements, build domain knowledge and explore the potential of quantum computing in applications
- Identifying and collaborating on the development of use cases for quantum computing
- Engaging with NQCC applications engineers, algorithms developers and the wider technical team to drive the development of innovative solutions for quantum computing
- Identifying opportunities for collaborative R&D, as well as knowledge and technology transfer, where relevant
- Building strong relationships with other research and technology organisations, government, industry, business, trade associations and standards & regulatory bodies
- Through external collaboration, facilitating the development of new products, processes, services and business opportunities based on quantum computing
- Initiating, managing and reporting on related projects, working with the NQCC’s programme, project and performance evaluation managers, as required
- Mapping and defining product development lifecycles, and setting technical performance requirements, where needed
- Leading technology road mapping activities, as required
- Mapping the landscape for quantum computing and understanding the key actors
- Tracking and collating information on technical and commercial developments in quantum computing, and preparing analyses to identify trends
- Developing and maintaining market landscape data and development metrics
- Delivering engagement activities to build stakeholder networks and identify new opportunities for collaboration
- Acting as an advocate for quantum computing as an important emerging technology for the UK
- Representing the NQCC externally at conferences, workshops, forums and in the media as appropriate
- Making site visits to commercial and academic partners, as needed
- Presenting work at internal and external meetings both within the UK and internationally
- Working within the Divisions ISO9001 Quality Management System
- Driving continuous improvement within the Centre.
What experience do I need?
We offer significant development opportunities at the NQCC, but as a starting point you should be able to demonstrate some of the following:
(Please note the below criteria will be assessed at the Shortlisting or Interview stage as indicated)
Essential:
- Educated to at least a Degree level or with equivalent experience in a field related to quantum computing, including physics, maths or computer science (S)
You will have demonstrable prior experience and/or a broad-based knowledge of quantum computing, quantum technologies or a related field, including, but not limited to: (S&I)
o Quantum information science
o Quantum information theory
o Experimental quantum information processing
o Quantum computing device development
o Quantum computing stack architecture development
o Quantum algorithm development
o Quantum computing use case and applications development
o Quantum programming tools & languages
o Development of hardware or software (including experimental or prototype proofs-of-concept) related to the quantum computing supply chain - Experience in stakeholder management in a client-facing, user engagement or outreach role, with a track record of building and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships (S&I)
- Experience in technical research or scientific business development environment (S&I)
- Proven ability to run, manage and report on technical projects and/or programmes (S&I)
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to influence internal staff and end-users (S&I)
- Computer literate with skills and experience in the use of MS Office will be required (S)
- The post holder needs to be a proactive, self-motivated person, able to work in a dynamic environment (S&I)
- Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, but also demonstrate autonomy within their area of responsibility (S&I)
- Knowledge or experience in measuring and monitoring performance and impact. (S&I)
- (Band F) Experience of innovation in a commercial environment (S)
Desirable
- Significant experience of industry-focused end-user engagement or experience in a client-facing role (S&I)
- Experience using and developing product lifecycle management systems (S&I)
- A proven ability to synthesise business/market data to inform decision-making (S&I)
- Experience in developing and creating technology roadmaps (S&I)
- A demonstrable understanding of intellectual property rights (IPR) management (S&I)
- An understanding of the international landscape for quantum computing, including the key stakeholders, prospective applications, use cases and/or market opportunities (S&I)
- Experience in project delivery within an ISO9001 quality management system (I)
- Appreciation of health, safety and environment (I)
- Availability to travel/work within the UK and overseas, when required (I).
How to apply
Online applications are only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the file name description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the ‘experience’ section of the application.
UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion – a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us.