Principal Researcher & Technical Program Manager - Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) & Secure Quantum Networking
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 is a senior, high-impact position at the intersection of quantum research, cryptography, and technical program leadership. You will define and execute strategies for secure quantum communication systems, driving the development of QKD technologies from research to real-world deployment. The position requires a mix of scientific expertise and program management skills, leading cross-functional teams and collaborating with external partners, including government, financial, and telecom organizations. You will influence the roadmap for secure quantum networking, guide experimental and applied research, and mentor senior scientists and engineers. The role offers an opportunity to shape the future of quantum-secure communications in a fast-evolving, remote-friendly, and innovative environment.
Accountabilities
- Define and lead the strategy and technical roadmap for QKD and secure quantum networking initiatives.
- Direct multidisciplinary research and engineering programs across quantum hardware, control systems, cryptography, and network protocols.
- Architect and validate QKD systems, integrating entanglement-based and prepare-and-measure approaches with classical networks and hybrid cryptography.
- Collaborate with government, defense, and financial partners to execute pilot deployments demonstrating secure quantum communication use cases.
- Serve as principal investigator for funded programs, managing deliverables, technical milestones, and cross-organizational coordination.
- Represent the organization in standards bodies and policy forums, contributing to QKD and quantum network interoperability standards.
- Publish and present research outcomes to establish thought leadership in quantum-safe communication technologies.
- Mentor senior scientists and engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering expertise in quantum optics, cryptography, and network architecture.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with a focus on Quantum Communication, Photonics, or Cryptography.
- 18+ years of experience in research or technical program management in quantum communication, applied cryptography, or network systems.
- Deep expertise in QKD protocols (BB84, E91, CV-QKD, entanglement-based systems) and quantum network architectures.
- Strong knowledge of quantum optics, photonic integration, entanglement distribution, and quantum hardware systems.
- Hands-on experience with photon sources, detectors, synchronization, and control systems.
- Familiarity with post-quantum cryptography and hybrid cryptographic integration.
- Proven program management skills in research environments, including proposal development, milestone tracking, and stakeholder communication.
- Excellent communication, influence, and strategic planning abilities to guide internal teams and external partners.
- Prior experience leading national or international QKD programs, participating in standards groups (ETSI, ITU-T, NIST), or collaborating with government, telecom, or financial institutions is a plus.
- Demonstrated record of publications, patents, or technology transfer in quantum communication or secure networking.
Benefits
- Competitive base salary ($162,920–$213,304) with bonus and equity components.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Matching 401(k) retirement plan.
- Generous paid time off, including unlimited PTO and paid holidays.
- Parental/adoption leave and wellness programs.
- Home internet stipend and additional lifestyle perks, such as pet insurance.
- Flexible remote or hybrid work arrangements with optional on-site presence.
- Opportunities to lead cutting-edge research and shape the future of quantum-secure communications.
