Research Team Leader, Quantum Hardware

Are you looking for a meaningful job in the field of microelectronics and quantum technologiesâ¯with a possibility to make an impact?   VTT is one of the leading research organizations in Europe and we are operating the largest R&D cleanroom in the Nordic countries, located inâ¯Micronovaâ¯premises, Espoo. We develop innovative enabling technologies and apply them to practical micro- and nanosystems. We work closely with global players in the microelectronics field, including demanding industrial partners. â¯What unites us at VTT are the curiosity, passion of learning and devotion to finding solutions to global challenges and answers to our customersâ needs. You can familiarize with us further by exploring VTTâs research infra throughâ¯VTT World.⯠ We are now looking for a visionary Research Team Leader for Quantum Hardware team.  The team is part of VTTâs Microelectronics and quantum technology research area. The team is an international team comprised of world-class experts on superconducting circuits, mostly on permanent contracts and with more than half of the team having a doctoral degree. In terms of qubits, the team focuses on the development of fabrication technologies and interconnect solutions that allow scaling the qubit count in superconducting quantum processors without sacrificing quantum coherence. In terms of other superconducting circuits, the team develops single-flux quantum circuits, Josephson arbitrary waveform generators, as well as superconducting photodetectors. The team has a roughly even split between experts focusing on process development and physical characterization in the Micronova cleanroom and experts focusing on circuit design, modeling and cryogenic characterization. Research is done in close collaboration with other VTT teams, research partners and commercial customers both in Finland and abroad.  The team is central to the effort to grow quantum technologies research at VTT and the team leader has a central role in facilitating that growth. As a team leader, you are in an excellent position to act as a thought leader on the topic of superconducting quantum circuits and utilize the efforts of a large group of experienced researchers to make that happen. Core responsibilities involve engagement with potential commercial customers, recruiting, identifying investment needs, allocating resources, and coordination and/or writing of project proposals and offers, in close collaboration with experienced project managers in the team. The team leader role is also in a key position in the organization for affecting broader decisions that build and drive forward impactful research.  With us, you will be responsible for: 

Visionary leadership of the team. You will be the spokesperson for the quantum hardware research topics and take an active role in promoting its visibility.  Relevance and ambition of the teamâs project portfolio and impactful collaboration with companies, policy makers and other stakeholders.  Working as one of the key contributors of the area and participating in relevant research projects also yourself. 

As member of the VTTâs Microelectronics and quantum technology research areaâs leadership team, you find ways to combine competences and foster internal-/external collaboration to ensure wider impact.  This is a line manager role, so you are responsible for coaching the team and team membersâ performance as an inspirational leader. Employee wellbeing, recruitment and teamâs competence development are your key priority. 

Your profile and experience: 

Excellent substance knowledge and understanding of the quantum hardware. Proven research skills with a strong track record and several years of working experience in driving excellence and impact in research. You have a Master of Science degree in a relevant field or equivalent science experience. A doctoral degree is considered an asset. Interest to commercialize teamâs research and development to international customers. As a leader, you want to create positive drive and get people excited by coaching and setting ambitious targets together with the team. Strong and proven interpersonal skills are mandatory in the position. Good communication skills and ability to build high value research collaboration in the area. You should have proficient English skills.  

As a person, we hope that you are: 

Science and technology leader with visionary view of your substance area  Motivating people leader with the ability to coach and develop people  Proactive and possess a self-driven mind-set  Creative and have theâ¯ability to develop new, innovative solutions for customers utilising existing and emerging solutions  Eager to learn and an ambitious to achieve high goals.