Description
Quantum City in the Office of VP Research invites applications for a Scientist-in-Residence. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 18 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
The University of Calgary (UCalgary) is creating a vibrant quantum economic and scientific hub based in Calgary, Quantum City is leveraging the leading quantum science and technology programs of Campus Alberta institutions and a burgeoning UCalgary innovation ecosystem.
Reporting to the Quantum City Senior Scientist-in-Residence, the Scientist-in-Resident works 35 hours per week. Working under the direction of the Senior Scientist-in-Residence, the candidate will bring professional scientific expertise within a quantum-related area. In addition, they will need to have the knowledge and skills to translate high-level quantum technologies, solutions, and theories into working concepts for non-scientific audiences. Preference will be given to candidates with post-doctoral fellowship experience.
The Quantum City Scientist-in-Residence will play a broad role in furthering Quantum City's mission by developing and delivering a scientific outreach program for corporate members to build an understanding of the potential applications and risks of quantum technology, its relevance, and applicability.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
- Develop and deliver a scientific outreach program for corporate members to build an understanding of the potential of quantum, its relevance and applicability.
- Collaborate with corporate partners to understand/articulate their quantum-secure communications needs; work with researchers and Quantum City partners to support PQC migration and to develop and coordinate R&D activities related to those needs.
- Translate quantum technologies & solutions into lay terms for different non-scientific audiences (e.g. policymakers, senior leadership personnel, etc.).
- Support trainees and postdocs working on industry projects, when required.
- Support the Quantum City Manager, Corporate Engagement, and Manager, Quantum Industry Engagement, when attracting companies to Calgary.
- Support Quantum City Manager Scientific Outreach & Education Engagement in developing and delivering a scientific outreach program for corporate members to build an understanding of the potential of quantum, its relevance, and applicability.
Qualifications / Requirements:
- Must hold a Ph.D. in engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, or a related area.
- Be an excellent emerging researcher in quantum-resistant communication and post-quantum cryptography.
- Industry experience in post-quantum cryptography integration/migration preferred.
- Strong track record of research accomplishments, demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications and presentations.
- Expert knowledge of quantum cryptography as well as basic quantum algorithms (Grover's algorithm, Shor's algorithm, etc).
- Expert knowledge of quantum-resistant communication and cryptography and relevant classical cybersecurity systems.
- Exceptional communication skills in communicating technical concepts with both scientific and lay audiences.
- Broad knowledge of key advances in the quantum science and technology field, along with a strong interest and understanding of the Canadian and international quantum commercialization landscape.
- Candidates must also showcase a clear dedication to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion as it pertains to service, teaching, and scholarly, research or creative activities.
- Strong planning, time management, and organizational skills, as well as effective decision-making, multitasking, and problem-solving ability in a deadline-driven, high-volume environment required.
- Experience working in a small, dynamic team with proven personal effectiveness and productivity is required.
- The ability to work independently to tight timelines, maintain confidentiality, and deal effectively with overlapping and changing deadlines is required.
- Ability to think critically and creatively under pressure while exercising good judgment and discretion required.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required.
- Ability to build relationships to accomplish goals with diverse groups within and outside of the Quantum City is essential.
- Ability to conduct research in an interdisciplinary team environment, as well as independently when required.
Application Deadline: July 20, 2025
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 3.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments (equity@ucalgary.ca) and requests for accommodations can be sent to Human Resources (hrhire@ucalgary.ca).
Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role.
We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
