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Quandela

Senior Research Program Lead

Quandela, Washington, District of Columbia, us, 20022

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Quandela is a leading quantum computing company that designs, builds, and delivers industry‑grade quantum computing solutions, including datacenter‑ready systems, cloud‑accessible quantum processors, and algorithm services with industrial value. The company is committed to making advanced quantum computing accessible to all, empowering innovators to solve the most pressing industrial and societal challenges.

We are seeking a

Senior Research Program Lead

with a strong scientific background to help drive a key strategic and research program in the United States.

Reporting to the CEO, this role combines scientific leadership, strategic program coordination, and project management, working closely with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.

The successful candidate will help

guide R&D activities in quantum computing—spanning integrated photonics, electronics, algorithms, and software —ensuring scientific advances translate into coherent deliverables aligned with project goals and the company’s long‑term vision.

Key Responsibilities Program & Project Coordination

Actively engage with new research projects in quantum computing and quantum technologies.

Lead overall program governance, ensuring objectives, timelines, and budgets are met.

Establish and monitor KPIs, milestones, risk assessments, and mitigation plans in compliance with program requirements.

Coordinate reporting, documentation, and communication with program officers, stakeholders, and internal leadership.

Develop and oversee detailed project plans, including resource allocation, work breakdown structures, and critical‑path analyses.

Support new research programs in quantum computing and quantum technologies.

Support compliance with regulatory and contractual requirements (export control, IP, security for U.S. defense‑related research).

Scientific & Technical Leadership

Facilitate and coordinate interdisciplinary R&D efforts across quantum physics, photonics, electronics, algorithms, and software engineering.

Work with research leads and scientists to define and refine technical roadmaps.

Support the transition from scientific concepts to prototypes and validation milestones.

Stay informed on advances in quantum computing, integrated photonics, and hardware/software architectures; contribute insights to strategic discussions.

Participate in the recruitment and onboarding of scientists, engineers, and project coordinators.

Help build and structure a high-performing R&D environment aligned with program objectives.

Support the establishment of roles, processes, and collaboration frameworks to facilitate efficient execution.

Encourage a culture of scientific excellence, accountability, and cross‑disciplinary communication within a growing research team.

Strategic Partnerships & Representation

Serve as key point of contact for program stakeholders, collaborating with funding institutions and partners.

Build strategic collaborations with universities, national laboratories, and industrial partners.

Represent the company at conferences, workshops, and consortium meetings to enhance visibility and engagement with the scientific community.

Requirements

Advanced degree (PhD) in physics, quantum technologies, photonics, engineering, or a related field combined with strong program or project management experience.

7–10+ years of proven experience contributing to or coordinating complex R&D programs, preferably in defense, aerospace, or advanced technology sectors.

Strong understanding of quantum information science and/or integrated photonics is highly desirable.

Familiarity with project‑management methodologies (PMI, Agile/Hybrid) and the ability to support structured execution.

Experience with U.S. government‑funded projects, including reporting and compliance (export control, IP, security).

Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across scientific and executive teams.

Demonstrated ability to connect scientific vision with operational planning and milestone‑driven progress.

Applicants must be

U.S. citizens

to meet government program and security requirements.

Benefits

The opportunity to lead strategic national programs at the forefront of quantum technologies.

A collaborative, innovative environment that bridges cutting‑edge science and industrial applications.

Competitive compensation package, including relocation support if required.

The chance to shape the future of quantum computing with one of the leading players in the field.

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