Job Description

Quantum Computational Science Specialist

Derby (Hybrid)

Full Time

Why join Rolls-Royce?

At Rolls-Royce we are proud to be a business that has truly helped to shape the modern world and are committed to always being a force for progress; powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere.

By joining Rolls-Royce, you'll have the opportunity to work on world-class solutions, supported by a culture that believes individuality is our greatest strength, and all perspectives, experiences and backgrounds help us innovate and enable our high-performance culture.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Quantum Computing Specialist to join the Future Technology team within the Rolls-Royce R&T organisation based in Derby.

The role will lead Quantum Computing activities including developing applications and algorithms for Fault Tolerant Quantum Computers, hybrid quantum-classical workflows, classical circuit simulation using High Performance Computers. Application areas include Quantum Linear Equation Solvers, state and matrix loading, block encoding, measurement observables and state reconstruction including machine learning and data science.

The team aims to radically transform RR Engineering methods and software, applying these to emerging novel products & services.  The potential of quantum computing to disrupt the way businesses design their products will only be possible with robust engineering applications. The successful candidates will join Rolls-Royce at the outset of its journey of disruption with multiple opportunities to shape our future methods and software; and, to interact with technical experts inside and outside the Company.

More information about innovation at Rolls-Royce is available via this link: https://www.rolls-royce.com/innovation.aspx

What you will be doing:

In this role, you will be part of a dynamic, agile and creative team, directly reporting to the Chief of Future Methods. You will lead and support state-of-the-art research programmes with quantum computing companies, universities, and government research laboratories.  You will develop quantum computational science methods as part of future multi-physics simulation capabilities, developing algorithms and codes to utilise quantum processors.

• Both roles will focus on error-corrected algorithms and develop practical applications that can be run in emulation in advance of using physical devices.
• For Quantum Linear Equation Solvers, this will build on our existing expertise in Quantum Singular Value Transformation and extend into new areas such as solving time-dependent PDEs and circuit contraction using tensor networks.
• We expect there to be many crossovers in the algorithms being developed and for the two roles to work closely together and with the rest of the team. Both will involve hybrid classical-quantum algorithms and the use of high-performance computers for larger test cases.
• This will include a propensity to influence RR to adopt these methods and support their wider commercialisation as appropriate. As such, the role offers the opportunity to work with a broad and complex stakeholder community, both internal and external.
• You may also take part in technology horizon scanning and identify and assess emerging computation technologies.

Preferred requirements:

Essential

• A degree in Physics, Mathematics or equivalent qualification.
• A sound understanding of quantum information and postgraduate experience in computational science, or a strong experience using classical linear algebra.
• Experience using and implementing quantum computing algorithms including development with one or more development environments; PennyLane, QuEST, or similar.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python
• Strong consultancy skills with the ability to engage effectively with domain experts, academics, start-ups and technology vendors globally.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to communicate with non-quantum computing specialists including seniors within Rolls-Royce.
• Experience and expertise in solvers for Fault Tolerant Quantum Computers, such as Quantum Singular Value Transformation.

Desirable

• Experience of parallel programming for high performance computing.
• Experience of simulation and modelling and/or machine learning for engineering.
• Knowledge of state loading, matrix encoding, amplitude amplification and measurement operators
• Azure DevOps, Cloud compute architecture, and HPC system management/deployment
• Experience in classical data science and machine learning

Benefits will include:

• Retirement Savings through the Rolls-Royce Retirement Savings Trust
• Group Life Assurance provides for a lump sum benefit if you die whilst employed by Rolls-Royce
• Group Income Protection provides an income in the event that you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Your Shares: Matched is a simple way to own Rolls-Royce shares and invest in our future, together. Buy one share, get one free!
• Digital GP provides a convenient way for you to access GP consultations
• Employee Assistance (EAP) and Live Well programmes

Our vision is to ensure that the excellence and ingenuity that shaped our history continues into our future. Our multi-year transformation programme aims to turn Rolls-Royce into a high-performing, competitive, resilient and growing company. Join us, and it can be your future vision too.

Rolls-Royce are committed to being a respectful, inclusive, and non-discriminatory workplace where individuality is valued, diverse perspectives fuel innovation, and everyone can thrive.

Closing date: 8th November 2026

As part of our selection process, candidates in certain locations may be asked to complete an online assessment, which can include cognitive and behavioural aptitude testing relevant to the role. If required, full instructions for the next steps will be provided.

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