Job Description

We are hiring a Higher Scientist to join NPL's Quantum Software & Modelling team in the Quantum Technologies Department.



You will be a vital part of NPL's team contributing to achieve the UK's mission to deliver an accessible UK-based quantum computer capable of running 1 trillion operations. The exciting and innovative research will be done in collaboration with experimental teams at NPL, as well as leading national and international quantum computing companies and Universities.


The research will be within the following areas:


Development of quantum computing and classical computing algorithms and software for applications in materials science, chemistry, machine learning and AI Development of machine learning and other AI approaches for large scale automation and modelling of quantum technologies Theory and algorithms for open quantum systems to determine the physical decoherence mechanisms in qubits Development of methods to determine the effects of noise on quantum algorithms and quantum error correction


You'll have a Ph.D. or M.Sc. in one of computational physics, chemistry, mathematics, AI, data science, computer science, quantum technologies or related subjects.


You will need to demonstrate expertise in at least one, and preferably more, of the following areas:


Development of quantum computing algorithms and software Development of machine learning algorithms and software Development of tensor networks algorithms and software Development of algorithms and software for materials or chemistry simulations and their application Development of models and software for open quantum systems Developments of methods for quantum error correction Development of automation algorithms and software

In this role, you will be expected to develop a programme of research, commercial and academic collaborations and support any funding applications we may be undertaking as well as propose your own bids.



We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.





Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.

How to apply

Please include a list of publications within your CV and include a short covering statement describing your key research accomplishments and how your skills match the requirements. For any role specific queries, please contact careers@npl.co.uk




The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.



NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.



At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we're creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.



We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.



To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we're always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.