Principal AMO Physicist

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent Location: Cambridge, UK Visa Sponsorship available Join Nu Quantum - Shaping the Future of Technology Nu Quantum is at the forefront of quantum computing and advanced technology, driven by innovation, diversity, and a commitment to excellence. We’re creating an environment where brilliant minds from all backgrounds collaborate to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Founded to commercialise research generated over the last decade at the Cavendish Laboratory, Nu Quantum is on a mission to shape the future of quantum information systems. We’re working on exciting technology that will improve the utility and accelerate the time-to-market of quantum computing systems. We integrate novel quantum photonic technology to form an efficient and scalable quantum networking infrastructure in partnership with world-leading companies and academic groups. About the role We’re looking for a skilled and experienced experimental Physicist, to join our trapped-ion testbed. Our AMO team are currently interfacing our integrated microcavity-technology with trapped-ion qubits and benchmarking the efficiency of the ion-photon interface, and the fidelity of remote entanglement between trapped-ion nodes. This quantum-network demonstrator is a cornerstone of Nu Quantum’s mission to create scalable, high-performance quantum networks. In this role, you’ll work at the intersection of atomic physics, cavity QED, and quantum engineering, joining the AMO physics team and collaborating closely with experts across electronics, optics, and mechanical design. You’ll play a key role in demonstrating Nu Quantum’s proprietary qubit–photon interface technology, helping us push toward state-of-the-art entanglement rates and fidelities. This is a highly cross-functional, hands-on role where creative problem-solving and system-level thinking are essential. You’ll have the opportunity to shape next-generation designs, drive technical innovation, and directly contribute to the long-term vision of making quantum networking a reality. If you’re excited by the challenge of interconnecting quantum computers — and want to work on technology that’s defining the field — we’d love to hear from you. What you'll be doing Design and execute remote-entanglement experiments to benchmark and advance ion-trapping devices with Nu Quantum’s integrated micro-cavity technology. Mentor and support AMO Physicists, helping them grow technical depth, independence, and problem-solving capability. Develop, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory systems — including laser setups, RF/DC electronics, control systems, and ultra-high-vacuum hardware. Collaborate across disciplines with Software, Optical, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineers, as well as with theory and simulation teams, to deliver integrated experimental systems. Keep project teams and Project Management Office aligned through clear, timely communication of results, progress, and priorities across interdependent, fast-moving workstreams. Establish and uphold best practices in laboratory safety, documentation, and system reliability. Contribute to technical strategy, identifying opportunities to improve experimental design, automation, and scalability. We’re looking for someone who has: Leadership experience Past experience providing technical leadership within a collaborative team to deliver complex projects in a fast-paced environment. Proven track record of managing research grants or leading multidisciplinary projects in industry. A proven track record in scientific communication (papers, talks, conferences). Expertise Experience in experimental AMO physics, preferably in ion-trapping, or a related discipline. Hands-on experience with quantum control of qubits with optical fields, gate optimisation and benchmarking. Deep understanding of qubit control, atomic physics and atom–phonon interactions. Skills Expertise in at least two of these areas: sub-kHz laser locking, system automation, and real-time control (e.g. ARTIQ). A system-level mindset — comfortable defining requirements and connecting hardware, software, and control layers. Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with the confidence to take initiative, make independent technical decisions, and drive solutions forward. Willingness to mentor others and a readiness to take ownership of technical direction as the team grows. Why Work with Us? At Nu Quantum, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where people of all identities, orientations, backgrounds, and experiences are empowered. We value diverse perspectives as a source of creativity and innovation and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented and marginalised communities. Joining Nu Quantum means joining a team where you can grow professionally and be part of an inspiring mission to shape the future of technology. Benefits Refreshments, including fruit and beverages, are available in the office. Flexible working options 28 days annual leave, inclusive of a 3-day company shutdown period + UK Bank Holidays Option to purchase up to 5 days holiday per year Access to the Cambridge Botanical Gardens On-site gym membership Cycle scheme Private Medical and Dental Cover (With Vitality and Bupa) Enhanced paid family leave policies Generous Employee Referral Scheme 1 month paid Sabbatical after 4 years of service Group Life Assurance (4 x salary)