Head of Research – Quantum Computing

About the Role

WISER is seeking a Head of Research to lead our applied quantum computing research portfolio. This role combines scientific leadership, project management, client engagement, and research strategy to deliver high-impact projects for industry, government, and academia.

You will lead multidisciplinary research teams, oversee project delivery, secure research funding, and help shape WISER's long-term technical direction. What You'll Do

Research Leadership

Lead WISER's quantum computing research strategy and technical roadmap.

Ensure scientific excellence across all research projects.

Publish research papers and technical reports.

Team & Project Management

Recruit and manage Project Managers, researchers, postdocs, fellows, and students.

Define project scope, timelines, budgets, and technical milestones.

Oversee multiple research projects from proposal to delivery.

Ensure high-quality technical deliverables.

Client & Partnerships

Serve as the technical lead for industry, government, and research partners.

Translate client challenges into research projects and proof-of-concepts.

Support business development and strategic partnerships.

Funding & Outreach

Lead grant proposals and research funding efforts (DOE, NSF, DARPA, ARPA-E, NIST, etc.).

Deliver webinars, technical workshops, and conference presentations.

Represent WISER at scientific and industry events.

Who You

Are

PhD in Quantum Computing, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related STEM field.

5+ years of research experience in quantum computing.

Strong knowledge of

Variational Quantum Algorithms (VQAs)

Quantum Benchmarking

Quantum Error Correction

Utility-scale quantum hardware

Experience publishing scientific papers Experience in writing successful grant proposals.

Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary research teams and manage client-funded projects.

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred

Qualifications

Experience with IBM Quantum, Quantinuum, IonQ, QuEra, D-Wave, Rigetti, or similar platforms.

Experience with Qiskit, PennyLane, Cirq, CUDA-Q, or TKET.

Experience managing federally funded research programs.

Established network within the quantum research community. Why Join WISER?

Join a growing global organization advancing quantum computing through research, workforce development, and strategic partnerships. You'll lead cutting-edge research, collaborate with leading organizations worldwide, and help shape the future of the quantum ecosystem.