Program Director, Quantum Safe Technologies and Applied Quantum Computing Challenge Programs

National Research Council Canada•Ottawa, ON

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The NRC is seeking a Program Director for the Quantum Safe Technologies (QST) and Applied Quantum Computing (AQC) Challenge Programs. This role is within NRC’s Digital Technologies Research Center, reporting to the Director General, and involves collaboration across multiple research centers, IRAP, and business units. The QST Program, launched in April 2026, focuses on developing quantum-safe applications to enhance the security of Canada’s critical sectors. The AQC program contributes to high-impact research in quantum computer algorithms and software, aiming to advance scientific discovery and Canada’s leadership in the quantum software sector. The Director will also focus on commercialization potential, exploring dual-use applications, building partnerships, and paving the way for future quantum computing initiatives. NRC’s Challenge Programs leverage established assets to convene strategic teams, address public challenges, and stimulate business innovation by bringing together experts from academia, industry, and government. The Director will lead collaborative applied R&D projects, manage resources, engage stakeholders, and drive business development, drawing on significant knowledge and a proven track record in quantum-safe technologies and quantum computing. Expertise in cryptography, cybersecurity, and quantum computing is essential, along with strong communication skills and knowledge of the Canadian and international cybersecurity and quantum industry.

Requirements

A PhD in computer science, engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or in a field relevant to the position.
Program management experience, including developing strategic program plans and associated metrics for innovation.
Significant and recent administrative, financial, and human resource management experience.
Recent experience in leading, planning, monitoring and aligning studies, projects or strategic initiatives within a fast-paced and complex environment.
Experience supervising and developing staff in multidisciplinary teams, ideally in a matrix environment of projects and programs.
In-depth experience working in the Canadian and international context around program-specific cryptographic, cybersecurity, or quantum computing technologies: industries, forums, trends, issues, and the engagement needed to keep this knowledge current.
Proven experience in establishing and managing partnerships, particularly with the cryptography, cybersecurity, or quantum computing communities including defining contributions, terms of engagement, reporting structures, and intellectual property ownership.
Significant research and development experience in quantum-safe technologies or quantum computing.
Significant and recent experience in providing strategic advice to senior level executives in the public or private sectors.
Demonstrated experience designing and delivering impactful technical and programmatic presentations to various audiences.
Significant business experience within relevant scientific and technological domains gained through industry, government, or partnership experience.
Secret clearance.
Bilingual Non-imperative CBC/CBC.
Knowledge of the NRC’s mandate, programs and the unique requirements of an innovation program.
Extensive knowledge of R&D management and strategic planning in a complex, interdisciplinary, and multi-partner environment.
Extensive knowledge of techniques for developing quantum safe technologies, including an understanding of global trends.
Extensive knowledge in at least one of the following fields: quantum applications and software that enable the efficient simulation of complex physical systems, enabling technology such as tools and techniques that enhance the performance or scalability of quantum computing platforms, or foundational research into new quantum computing models and physical architecture.
Knowledge of key players, industry dynamics, and business models for commercializing quantum-safe and quantum algorithms in critical sectors, both nationally and internationally.
Knowledge of policies and practices related to contract management, financial management, human resources, and procurement management.
Inspirational Leadership (Level 3).
Strategic Outlook and Alignment (Level 3).
Drive for Results and Efficiency (Level 4).
Leverage Collaborative Relationships (Level 3).
Financial Management (Level 3).
Client Relationship Management (Level 3).
Industry Sector Knowledge (Level 3).
Self-awareness (Level 4).
Action management (Level 4).
People Management (Level 3).

Nice To Haves

Business experience in one or more of the targeted industry sectors— quantum safe technologies or quantum computing---would be an asset.

Responsibilities

Lead collaborative applied R&D projects.
Manage financial and human resources.
Engage stakeholders and drive business development.
Advance the commercialization potential of quantum computing.
Explore dual-use applications.
Build new partnerships.
Pave the pathway to future quantum computing initiatives.
Bring together industry expertise, researchers, and technical staff from Canada’s AI ecosystem and NRC’s research centres to deliver on the program’s mandate.
Work with the NRC’s National Program Office (NPO) for day-to-day administration and oversight of Challenge Programs.
Collaborate with an NPO Innovation Investment Advisor.
Communicate and leverage significant knowledge of the cybersecurity and quantum industry in Canada and internationally.
Evaluate, manage, and assume risks for large scale applied R&D projects.

Benefits

Robust pension plan
Comprehensive health and dental coverage
Disability and life insurance
Office closure at the end of December
Additional supports to enhance your well-being throughout your career and beyond.
Relocation assistance

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