- Professional
- Office in Reading
Quantum Research Engineer
Location: Reading, full-time hybrid working with 3 days in the office plus travel
Join Thales and be at the forefront of specialising in sensing and algorithm project related work, where you'll work towards ensuring the real-world exploitation of quantum technologies including novel sensors, communications and computing.
What the role has to offer
Opportunity to design cutting-edge quantum algorithms, advance pioneering research exploiting quantum principles, and deliver revolutionary, real-world solutions for a diverse range of clients
Collaborate with Thales’ global quantum network across research, industry, academia, and government to drive innovation and deliver impactful, revolutionary technologies
Act as subject matter expert, and contribute to planning of future research activities, helping to identify and formulate proposals for funding opportunities
Our Opportunity
In this role you will dive into cutting-edge, low-TRL (Technology Readiness Level) research and development focused on the revolutionary field of quantum technologies - spanning sensing, communications, algorithms, and computing. Collaborating with a small but dynamic team to push the boundaries of what's possible, you will contribute to pioneering research, exploiting emerging novel technology for real-world benefit, and crafting compelling bids for external funding. By working closely with external technology partners, you'll help shape a strategic roadmap that brings quantum technologies from concept to real-world applications across diverse business use cases. This is your chance to be part of a visionary journey that will redefine the future of technology at Thales.
If you have a strong background in physics, mathematics, computer science, or related fields, coupled with expertise in quantum R&D and algorithm programming, we want to hear from you. We welcome applications from existing Quantum Research Engineers or Quantum Technology Researchers looking for their next move.
Building a Future, we can all trust.
Thales leverages quantum sensing for navigation and stealth detection, quantum communications will secure the future’s sensitive information and quantum computing to solve currently intractable real-world problems.
What we offer you
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our employees’ wellbeing and professional growth, which includes:
Performance related annual bonus (VCP)
Pension – match like-for-like up to 7% of annual base salary
Life Assurance – 2 x base salary minimum (8 x salary if part of the pension scheme)
Income Protection – 50% of salary less state benefits for 5 years
Annual Leave – 201 hours, bank holidays, plus 1 company day
Private Medical Insurance - Couples cover
Half day every Friday, usually finishing around 1:00pm
24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
24 hours paid leave for volunteering activities
Access to flexible benefits and discounts – dental insurance, buying & selling annual leave, cycle to work, and many more
Key Responsibilities and Tasks
Collaborate effectively within research teams while also working independently with flexibility to explore new areas and adapt to diverse working styles
Identify and evaluate quantum technology use cases across Thales, assessing feasibility and potential integration into future products and services
Develop proof-of-concept demonstrators and contribute to technical roadmaps for quantum algorithms and software evolution
Lead proposal development for external funding opportunities and mentor graduate researchers, including PhDs and interns
Design, develop, and implement algorithms across domains such as Big Data, optimization, cryptography, decision support, information fusion, image and sensor processing, waveform design, and complexity analysis
Manage project progress, reporting, customer communication, and test algorithms in real-world environments to ensure reliability and performance
About You
At Thales, we are committed to equal opportunities and welcome all talented individuals to consider joining our team. So even if you don't match every statement below but feel you have some of the experience, knowledge or skills needed for this role, we encourage you to apply. It will take all of us working together to deliver solutions to the world’s most critical challenges.
Essential:
Hold a 2:1 honours degree, master’s, or PhD in physics, mathematics, computer science, or related fields (e.g., AI, Algorithm Engineering), with professional membership and engineering registration encouraged
Experience in quantum technology research & development (R&D) across industry and/or academia, with strong knowledge of quantum physics and technologies (e.g. sensing, communications & computing)
Proficient in algorithm design, programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C), and skilled at implementing, optimizing, and validating algorithms on digital platforms
Capable of critically analysing system requirements, developing specifications, and staying current with scientific advancements
Proficient in Microsoft Office and effective at interpreting customer needs, communicating complex technical concepts, and building strong relationships
Collaborative with strong problem-solving abilities delivering innovative, practical, and compliant solutions
Excellent time management, prioritization, flexibility, and commitment to continuous learning, mentoring, and combining creative thinking with sound engineering practice
If you’re passionate about innovation, enjoy collaborative research environments, and want to make a tangible impact through breakthrough quantum solutions, apply now and help us lead the quantum revolution.
Security Clearance Statement
This role will require SC Clearance. It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant will undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance. Please visit the UKSV website for further guidance.
To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years. In some circumstances, a minimum of 3 years’ residence in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.
For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the National Security Vetting (NSV) Agency - United Kingdom Security Vetting - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
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In line with Thales' Baseline Security requirements, candidates will be asked to provide evidence of identity, eligibility to work in the UK and employment and/or education history for up to three years. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the Defence Business Services National Security Vetting (DBS NSV) Agency.
At Thales we provide CAREERS and not only jobs. With Thales employing 80,000 employees in 68 countries our mobility policy enables thousands of employees each year to develop their careers at home and abroad, in their existing areas of expertise or by branching out into new fields. Together we believe that embracing flexibility is a smarter way of working.
Thales UK is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free recruitment process. We will provide reasonable adjustments and support to ensure neuro-diverse applicants or those with a disability or long-term condition can be their best during the recruitment process. To request an adjustment, if you need this job advert in an alternative format or if you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Resourcing Ops for mid to senior roles, or the Early Careers Team for graduate and apprentice roles.
Great journeys start here, apply now!
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