Head of Quantum Hardware

An ambitious quantum computing business is looking to appoint a Head of Quantum Hardware to lead its experimental hardware programme and play a key role in the development of its next-generation quantum computing platform. This is a senior technical leadership position for an experienced quantum hardware specialist with a strong background in semiconductor-based spin qubits and quantum device development. You will take ownership of the hardware roadmap, lead a highly specialised experimental team and oversee the development, characterisation and optimisation of quantum devices. The role will involve translating scientific research into scalable hardware architectures, driving improvements in qubit performance and establishing the technical foundations required for larger-scale quantum processors. Key Responsibilities - Lead and develop the experimental quantum hardware team, providing technical direction, mentorship and scientific leadership. - Define and execute the hardware development roadmap, aligning research priorities with longer-term processor development objectives. - Oversee the design, fabrication, characterisation and optimisation of semiconductor-based quantum devices. - Drive improvements in qubit initialisation, control, measurement, coherence times and device stability. - Lead experimental programmes focused on cryogenic measurements, low-temperature electronics and quantum device performance. - Work across device physics, materials science, fabrication and quantum engineering to improve hardware capabilities. - Drive the integration and scaling of individual qubits towards increasingly complex multi-qubit systems. - Establish experimental processes, technical milestones and performance benchmarks. - Contribute to the wider scientific direction of the organisation through research collaborations, publications and intellectual property development. Requirements: - PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline. - Significant experience in experimental quantum hardware research and development. - Strong expertise in semiconductor spin-qubit systems, particularly silicon or germanium quantum dots. - Extensive hands-on experience with quantum device characterisation and cryogenic measurement techniques. - Strong understanding of qubit measurement and readout, including charge sensing, RF reflectometry or dispersive readout. - Experience working with dilution refrigerators, low-temperature measurement systems and associated RF/microwave electronics. - Demonstrable experience improving qubit performance, measurement fidelity, coherence and device stability. - Previous experience leading an experimental research team or taking ownership of a significant hardware development programme Following your application Jake Phillips, a specialist recruiter will discuss the opportunity with you in detail. Jake will be more than happy to answer any questions relating to the industry and the potential for your career growth. The conversation can also progress further to discussing other opportunities, which are also available right now or will be imminently becoming available. This position has been highly popular, and it is likely that it will close shortly. We recommend applying as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. j.phillips@barringtonjames.com