XPRIZE Quantum Applications Technical Prize Consultant

XPRIZE Foundation

23h•Remote

About The Position

The XPRIZE Foundation is seeking a Technical Prize Director Consultant to lead our XPRIZE Quantum Applications (QA) competition, in collaboration with our Deep Tech and Exploration Domain lead (https://www.xprize.org/focus-areas/deep-tech-exploration). The QA Prize is a three-year, $5M (USD) competition designed to drive the development of quantum algorithms towards quantum advantage for applications realizing a positive real-world impact. Sponsored by our partners at Google and GESDA (Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator) this prize aims to gather interdisciplinary competitive teams from around the world to push the state of the art in quantum algorithm development for the good of the planet and humanity. To learn more about this ambitious prize go to https://www.xprize.org/qc-apps The QA Prize is beginning Year 2 of its two-year execution. Under this position, this Prize will execute Phase 2, release final winners, and perform an orderly closeout. The Technical Prize Director Consultant, reporting to the Deep Tech + Exploration domain lead, is a quantum algorithms subject matter expert responsible for overall operations and management of the Prize competition, including coordination of operations, team relations, marketing, contract negotiations, and budget. This individual will be able to clearly explain the subject matter to non-technical team members, executives, and clients. An expert-level knowledge of quantum applications, and theory, is critical to credible engagement with technically-savvy world experts and prize sponsors.

Requirements

Subject Matter Expert with proven expertise across one or more of the following areas: quantum algorithm development, quantum algorithm performance assessment, quantum error correction, classical algorithm performance and comparison to quantum equivalencies.
PhD required in an area relevant to quantum algorithms or quantum theory, that may include any of physics, computer science or mathematics.
At least 5 years postdoctoral experience in academic, research or industry setting.
Excellent and demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills.
Record of delivering high-quality, and innovative technology-based projects.
Ability to thrive and think creatively and calmly in fluid situations under short timelines.
Experience in public speaking with ability to translate complex topics to diverse audiences.
Belief that a small group of motivated individuals can truly change the world for the better.

Responsibilities

Execute the prize vision, following all strategies and meeting stated objectives.
Ensure timely response to changing needs, requirements, issues, and direction, keeping all constituents informed in a timely manner.
Oversee budget and authorization of expenditures within budgetary limits. Develop and implement cost control measures and processes.
Lead development of measurement, validation & verification criteria and manage the overall defined judging strategy.
Refine overall judging criteria and manage the prize judging process, assisting the judging panel members as required.
Partner with XPRIZE internal stakeholders to secure, retain and effectively manage needed personnel, materials, and resources.
Identify experts and other consultants and advisors to support the prize on a temporary and/or contract basis.
Monitor and report on Prize competition to constituents including XPRIZE leadership, advisory boards, sponsors, and partners, ensuring requirements are met.
Organize, host, and participate in conferences and events around the world as needed to promote the competition, as well as for judging and awarding of semi-final and finalist prizes.
Ensure the competition is conducted in line with XPRIZE foundation rules and processes and also in accordance with specific Prize competition guidelines.
Act as public face of the Prize through interviews, appearance at industry conferences, speaking engagements, blogging, and other public outreach activities.
Collaborate and communicate across departments; facilitate intra-team communications and meetings.
Develop high-quality project plans which lay a path to reliable success.