Principal Researcher & Technical Program Manager - Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) & Secure Quantum Networking
full-time • Remote
quantum communication
qkd
quantum networking
research
program management
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.