Xen Quantum Ltd
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
About us Xen Quantum is building next-generation quantum communication systems based on silicon photonics and patented architecture, enabling practical and scalable quantum key distribution (QKD). Our technology simplifies implementation and lays the foundation for high-volume manufacturing and real-world deployment. Position Overview We're looking for a Quantum Communication System Developer to join as one of our first technical hires and play a defining role in shaping both our technology and the engineering culture. This is a hands on role at the intersection of quantum optics, photonics, cryptography and system engineering - spanning laboratory development, system integration, and early field deployment with customers. What You'll Do Develop, integrate, and characterize quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, with a focus on optical subsystems and protocol execution Design, test, and evaluate photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum communication applications Build and characterize optical and electro optical subsystems and prototypes Analyze experimental data and feed results back into system and product design Design and execute experiments, pilot trials, and early customer deployments Work closely with founders and collaborators to develop deployable systems What We're Looking For Education & Experience MSc or PhD in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field Demonstrated excellence in experimental quantum optics and optical communications At least 3 years of hands on laboratory experience in relevant topics Proven ability to design, build, and characterize optical systems independently Technical Skills Hands on experience with optical system construction and characterisation Fibre optic systems experience (lasers, modulators, detectors, fibre components) Electro optical lab experience, including familiarity with RF signals and measurements Experience building, characterising, and controlling QKD systems Scientific programming experience (Python and relevant libraries; C/C++ highly valued) Experience with Linux based systems and version control (git) Statistical data analysis and visualisation Experience with numerical modelling and simulations Strong project management and self organisation skills, independently planning and executing work while reliably meeting timelines, technical milestones, and other constraints Nice to Have Experience with photonic integrated circuit design and characterisation Experience with field trials or deployed optical systems Exposure to customer facing technical work This is a wish list, not a requirements list - if you have a technical background, are excited about what we're building and want to be part of an early stage start up, we want to hear from you How You Work Strong communication and collaboration skills Creative and flexible problem solver, able to work around real-world constraints Comfortable operating independently in an early stage environment Willing to take ownership of the responsibilities associated with the role, and help define the technology development Compensation & Benefits £40,000 - £60,000 pa, depending on experience Company shares options plan Enhanced annual leave (25 days + bank holidays) Primarily in person working (in Cambridge, UK), with flexible options where possible Early hire role with genuine scope to grow with - and help shape - the business
About us Xen Quantum is building next-generation quantum communication systems based on silicon photonics and patented architecture, enabling practical and scalable quantum key distribution (QKD). Our technology simplifies implementation and lays the foundation for high-volume manufacturing and real-world deployment. Position Overview We're looking for a Quantum Communication System Developer to join as one of our first technical hires and play a defining role in shaping both our technology and the engineering culture. This is a hands on role at the intersection of quantum optics, photonics, cryptography and system engineering - spanning laboratory development, system integration, and early field deployment with customers. What You'll Do Develop, integrate, and characterize quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, with a focus on optical subsystems and protocol execution Design, test, and evaluate photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum communication applications Build and characterize optical and electro optical subsystems and prototypes Analyze experimental data and feed results back into system and product design Design and execute experiments, pilot trials, and early customer deployments Work closely with founders and collaborators to develop deployable systems What We're Looking For Education & Experience MSc or PhD in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field Demonstrated excellence in experimental quantum optics and optical communications At least 3 years of hands on laboratory experience in relevant topics Proven ability to design, build, and characterize optical systems independently Technical Skills Hands on experience with optical system construction and characterisation Fibre optic systems experience (lasers, modulators, detectors, fibre components) Electro optical lab experience, including familiarity with RF signals and measurements Experience building, characterising, and controlling QKD systems Scientific programming experience (Python and relevant libraries; C/C++ highly valued) Experience with Linux based systems and version control (git) Statistical data analysis and visualisation Experience with numerical modelling and simulations Strong project management and self organisation skills, independently planning and executing work while reliably meeting timelines, technical milestones, and other constraints Nice to Have Experience with photonic integrated circuit design and characterisation Experience with field trials or deployed optical systems Exposure to customer facing technical work This is a wish list, not a requirements list - if you have a technical background, are excited about what we're building and want to be part of an early stage start up, we want to hear from you How You Work Strong communication and collaboration skills Creative and flexible problem solver, able to work around real-world constraints Comfortable operating independently in an early stage environment Willing to take ownership of the responsibilities associated with the role, and help define the technology development Compensation & Benefits £40,000 - £60,000 pa, depending on experience Company shares options plan Enhanced annual leave (25 days + bank holidays) Primarily in person working (in Cambridge, UK), with flexible options where possible Early hire role with genuine scope to grow with - and help shape - the business