Job Title: Superconducting Qubit Physicist
Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire, UK
Contract Type: Up to 2 Permanent Positions
Salary: Band E S1, £53,818 - £59,199 (gross per annum dependent on experience)
Hours: Full-time (We understand the importance of work-life balance, and are happy to discuss the possibility of flexible working with applicants)
Together, our scientist, technologists, engineers and business support team explore the unknown and turn what they find into work that changes the world around us.
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.
About NQCC:
The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) was established by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) as part of the UK's National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP). This includes a commitment of £100m+ over 5 years, dedicated to technical and commercial developments in the field of Quantum Computing. The Centre is a joint initiative of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
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 towards useful computing systems.
The NQCC's initial focus is on developing Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) machines to demonstrate the technology as well as software, algorithm, and applications development. The longer-term aim is to scale the technology towards error free fault-tolerant platforms and include the assurance of benchmarking and verification protocols. Many of our projects will include collaboration with industry and academia. 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:
Our Benefits include a flexible working scheme (subject to business requirements), Defined benefit pension scheme and 30 days annual leave allowance plus 10.5 bank holiday/privilege days and several other benefits.
The Role:
You will be based in the Superconducting Circuits Group within the Research division of NQCC. Using your skills in superconducting quantum devices, you will work on a variety of challenging science and engineering projects to implement and improve superconducting qubit systems. You will develop scalable, flexible and robust quantum computing systems to progress on the NQCC's technology roadmap and support deployment of quantum computing capabilities.
Key areas will include scalable qubit architecture design, high-performance qubit development, wiring and control system integration, noise analysis and benchmarking.
Main Responsibilities:
• Design, build and operate superconducting qubit quantum computing systems.
• Develop and apply strategies to improve qubit performance, system integration and scaling.
• Perform experimental characterisation, calibration, automation and benchmarking of superconducting qubit systems, including analysing and documenting results.
• Work with colleagues across the NQCC on the full-stack integration and use of quantum computing systems, as well as collaboration on wider topics in quantum computing.
• Perform research relevant to scaling qubit architectures and their supporting technologies, including collaborative research and development with academic and industry partners.
• Keep up to date with advances in the field, present and publish non-confidential results.
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.
(Please note the below criteria will be assessed at Shortlisting or Interview stage as indicated)
• PhD-level or equivalent industry research in superconducting quantum devices (relevant experience with other quantum or microwave devices may be considered) (S)
• Familiar with experimental laboratory work and operation of a dilution fridge (S)
• Experience of device handling & packaging and knowledge of nanofabrication processes (S)
• Programming skills for scientific work (e.g. simulations, instrumentation, measurements, data analysis) (S)
• Conceptual understanding of superconducting circuits and their use in quantum computing (S&I)
• Experience with tools for design and simulation of superconducting circuits - to extract classical microwave properties, quantum properties or simulate quantum dynamics (S&I)
• Experience with experimental setups involving cryogenic and RF wiring and equipment (S&I)
• Experience of measurement techniques relevant to characterisation and control of superconducting qubits (S&I)
• Able to communicate effectively including writing up and presenting scientific results (S&I)
• Able to work cross-functionally in a research team and perform collaborative research (I)
• A systematic approach to planning independent research work and problem solving (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 salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit Benefits of working for UK Research and Innovations (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 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 Information
Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire, UK
Contract Type: Up to 2 Permanent Positions
Salary: Band E S1, £53,818 - £59,199 (gross per annum dependent on experience)
Hours: Full-time (We understand the importance of work-life balance, and are happy to discuss the possibility of flexible working with applicants)
Together, our scientist, technologists, engineers and business support team explore the unknown and turn what they find into work that changes the world around us.
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.
About NQCC:
The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) was established by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) as part of the UK's National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP). This includes a commitment of £100m+ over 5 years, dedicated to technical and commercial developments in the field of Quantum Computing. The Centre is a joint initiative of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
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 towards useful computing systems.
The NQCC's initial focus is on developing Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) machines to demonstrate the technology as well as software, algorithm, and applications development. The longer-term aim is to scale the technology towards error free fault-tolerant platforms and include the assurance of benchmarking and verification protocols. Many of our projects will include collaboration with industry and academia. 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:
Our Benefits include a flexible working scheme (subject to business requirements), Defined benefit pension scheme and 30 days annual leave allowance plus 10.5 bank holiday/privilege days and several other benefits.
The Role:
You will be based in the Superconducting Circuits Group within the Research division of NQCC. Using your skills in superconducting quantum devices, you will work on a variety of challenging science and engineering projects to implement and improve superconducting qubit systems. You will develop scalable, flexible and robust quantum computing systems to progress on the NQCC's technology roadmap and support deployment of quantum computing capabilities.
Key areas will include scalable qubit architecture design, high-performance qubit development, wiring and control system integration, noise analysis and benchmarking.
Main Responsibilities:
• Design, build and operate superconducting qubit quantum computing systems.
• Develop and apply strategies to improve qubit performance, system integration and scaling.
• Perform experimental characterisation, calibration, automation and benchmarking of superconducting qubit systems, including analysing and documenting results.
• Work with colleagues across the NQCC on the full-stack integration and use of quantum computing systems, as well as collaboration on wider topics in quantum computing.
• Perform research relevant to scaling qubit architectures and their supporting technologies, including collaborative research and development with academic and industry partners.
• Keep up to date with advances in the field, present and publish non-confidential results.
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.
(Please note the below criteria will be assessed at Shortlisting or Interview stage as indicated)
• PhD-level or equivalent industry research in superconducting quantum devices (relevant experience with other quantum or microwave devices may be considered) (S)
• Familiar with experimental laboratory work and operation of a dilution fridge (S)
• Experience of device handling & packaging and knowledge of nanofabrication processes (S)
• Programming skills for scientific work (e.g. simulations, instrumentation, measurements, data analysis) (S)
• Conceptual understanding of superconducting circuits and their use in quantum computing (S&I)
• Experience with tools for design and simulation of superconducting circuits - to extract classical microwave properties, quantum properties or simulate quantum dynamics (S&I)
• Experience with experimental setups involving cryogenic and RF wiring and equipment (S&I)
• Experience of measurement techniques relevant to characterisation and control of superconducting qubits (S&I)
• Able to communicate effectively including writing up and presenting scientific results (S&I)
• Able to work cross-functionally in a research team and perform collaborative research (I)
• A systematic approach to planning independent research work and problem solving (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 salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit Benefits of working for UK Research and Innovations (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 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 Information
- Organisation: Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) - National Quantum Computing Centre
- Contract Type: Open Ended
- External Closing Date: Oct 27, 2024
- Minimum Salary: Pound Sterling (GBP) 53,818
- Hours: Full-time
