> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3526309-senior-quantum-scientist-trapped-ions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3526309-senior-quantum-scientist-trapped-ions). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior Quantum Scientist (Trapped Ions) - **Company:** UKRI - **Location:** Chilton, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** £58,346.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Development Life Cycle, Quantum Computing, Subsystems, Systems Architecture, Systems Integration - **Published:** October 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.adzuna.co.uk/jobs/details/5907656687 ## About the Role 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) ## Description The Trapped Ion Quantum Computing team is responsible for delivering trapped ion quantum computing capability at NQCC, supporting both internal system development and the wider UK quantum ecosystem. The team's mission is to: * Build the capability to act as the UK's trusted technical authority in trapped ion quantum computing * Deliver open architecture quantum computing systems * Provide technical appraisal of progress towards useful quantum computing The role is suitable for candidates with strong experimental or engineering backgrounds who are looking to develop into system-level roles. You will contribute to the design and integration of trapped ion quantum computing systems, working across sub-systems and supporting platform-level performance and scaling. You will also contribute to the development of open architectures and system blueprints that shape both internal development and external collaborations. This is a highly collaborative role, working across hardware, software, and applications teams, as well as with external partners. It offers the opportunity to influence the technical direction of a national programme while remaining closely engaged with experimental and engineering work. Key Responsibilities: 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.