• System and Sub-system Development

  • Design, develop, assemble, and optimise trapped ion quantum computing sub-systems (e.g. QPU, laser systems, control systems).
  • Develop and run experiments to characterise device 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 sub-systems 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.

The role provides significant opportunity to gain experience in large-scale system integration across internal teams and external collaborators.

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).

• PhD in Physics, Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience in quantum systems. (S)
• Strong technical knowledge in quantum computing or closely related technologies. (S&I)
• Experience with trapped ion quantum computing platforms, or significant experience in a closely related quantum technology. (S&I)
• Hands-on experience developing, operating, integrating, and troubleshooting complex 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 characterising, analysing, and improving trapped ion qubit and system 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. Link to more benefits: https://stfccareers.co.uk/rewards-and-benefits/

How to Apply:

Online applications only for this role. Please submit your CV and a covering letter that clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation to join STFC and the role you’re applying for. 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 your application without a covering letter may result in your application not being considered.

Additional Information:

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. For more information, please visit https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/how-much-it-costs or contact Recruitment@ukri.org.

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