This position is posted by Jobgether on behalf of a partner company. We are currently looking for a Principal Researcher & Technical Program Manager - Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) & Secure Quantum Networking in the United States.
This role offers a rare opportunity to lead the technical strategy and execution of cutting-edge quantum communication systems, focusing on QKD and secure quantum networking. You will act as both a thought leader and hands-on technical expert, bridging advanced quantum research, cryptography, and systems engineering. The position involves driving multidisciplinary projects, collaborating with global partners, and translating research breakthroughs into deployable, standards-compliant solutions. You will shape the roadmap for secure quantum infrastructure while guiding teams of scientists and engineers to achieve ambitious, real-world outcomes. This is ideal for professionals who thrive at the intersection of research, engineering, and program leadership, delivering scalable, quantum-safe communication systems.
- Accountabilities
- Define and own the strategy for QKD and secure quantum networking, establishing long-term technical vision and roadmaps aligned with research and product priorities.
- Lead multidisciplinary initiatives across quantum hardware, control systems, networking protocols, and cryptographic software.
- Architect, validate, and deploy QKD systems, including entanglement-based and prepare-and-measure schemes, and integrate hybrid quantum-classical key management frameworks.
- Collaborate with global partners—including government, defense, and financial institutions—to execute pilot deployments demonstrating secure quantum communication.
- Serve as principal investigator for funded programs, managing deliverables, timelines, and technical milestones across international research teams.
- Guide technical program execution to ensure research outcomes translate into deployable, standards-compliant systems.
- Represent the organization in standards bodies, consortia, and policy forums to influence QKD and quantum network interoperability standards.
- Mentor senior scientists and engineers, providing guidance in quantum optics, cryptography, and network architecture.
- Advise executive leadership on strategic investments, partnerships, and technology readiness for secure quantum solutions.
- Requirements
- Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with specialization in Quantum Communication, Photonics, or Cryptography.
- 18+ years of research or technical program experience in quantum communication, network systems, or applied cryptography.
- Expertise in QKD protocols (BB84, E91, CV-QKD, entanglement-based systems) and quantum network architectures.
- Deep knowledge of quantum optics, entanglement distribution, and photonic integration.
- Hands-on experience with quantum hardware and control systems, including photon sources, detectors, and synchronization.
- Familiarity with post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and hybrid cryptographic integration.
- Strong program management skills, including proposal development, milestone tracking, and stakeholder communication.
- Excellent communication and influence skills to translate technical insights into actionable strategy.
- Bonus: prior experience leading national or international QKD programs, participation in ETSI/ITU-T/NIST working groups, and a record of patents, publications, or technology transfer in quantum communications.
- Benefits
- Competitive base salary with potential for bonus and equity components.
- Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision plans.
- Matching 401(k) retirement plan.
- Flexible paid time off and parental/adoption leave.
- Home internet and pet insurance stipends.
- Opportunities to work on groundbreaking quantum technologies and collaborate with world-class teams.
- Remote, hybrid, or onsite work options depending on location and role requirements.
Why Apply Through Jobgether?
We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team.
We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!
Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.
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