You don’t have to have a PhD to work in quantum!

As quantum technologies receive increasing attention (read: investment!), many people are excited at the prospect of working at a company exploring this dynamic and evolving technology. But they might be put off by the fact that these solutions are based on quantum mechanics.

The truth is that you do not need a PhD in condensed matter physics to work in quantum. Keep in mind that all the major players are companies looking to generate attributable revenue. As a result, they need talent across a range of disciplines - just like any other successful business.

Wide range of opportunities

While there will of course be scientists driving technological aspects of the portfolio, there is also a need for executives who know how to run a company and manage a P&L. Many CEOs at leading quantum companies today have worked in senior executive roles at tech companies, some were management consultants, others were involved in investment banking or worked for VC firms.

Business development is key to the success of all these companies. Someone must take the products or services to a client, be able to explain the business value and get them to open their checkbook.

Don’t forget human computer interface. People who understand UX design are strategically important. How do you turn it on? How big are the buttons? What colors are they? What broadly understood nomenclature should be used to identify them?

Just as critical are talented people to build and support all kinds of necessary supportive technologies: optical tables, lasers, dilution refrigerators, wiring harnesses. These are the “picks and shovels” of the quantum economy but critical to its success.

Marketing, PR and communications are required in every successful business. Quantum is no different. Talented writers are needed not only to tell the story of the company and the team, but to be able to clarify the business value in order to attract clients, investors and employees.

As quantum continues to impact a broad spectrum of organizations on a global scale, policy and regulatory conversations are becoming increasingly critical. People with experience in how technologies are governed, especially when addressing questions about ITAR and dual-use aspects of quantum technologies.

And last but not least - management consulting roles. All the major consulting firms - McKinsey, Accenture, Deloitte, KPMG - all have consultants working with Enterprise clients to develop long-term strategic plans, helping them understand how quantum technologies will impact their business models in the next 5-10 years.

Myriad sources for knowledge acquisition

What if you are curious and want to learn more about the emerging quantum economy? The good news is that myriad sources exist for acquiring quantum-related knowledge. Many universities, as well as online providers, are offering quantum curricula, degrees, and training to help prepare and orient the evolving quantum workforce.

Prestigious academic institutions like MIT and the University of Oxford offer online courses geared towards executives, explaining the meta-concepts behind quantum technologies and how they are driving new business models and disrupting existing ones. These range from a two-day online hands-on program to more extended offerings, all designed to make executives “quantum fluent.”

The Complete Quantum Computing Course for Beginners on Coursera provides an entry-level solution. It provides a terrific initial orientation perfect for journalists, PR talent, and even people interested in policy and regulatory issues.

The quantum training and recruiting firm QURECA offers tailored online training in quantum technologies, including “Quantum for Everyone 2.0”. This course introduces quantum computing principles without requiring a mathematical or physics background.

If you are looking for more intermediate to advanced courseware, you might check out these courses:

Keep in mind this is just a partial list. Do a Google Search or use your favorite GenAI tool to find other options. There are many out there and more being offered every day!

Bottom line: if you are interested in contributing to the quantum economy, look for job opportunities at quantum companies where your unique skills and experience are needed.

Technology and Innovation programme activities

techUK bring members, industry stakeholders, and UK Government together to champion emerging technologies as an integral part of the UK economy. We help to create an environment where innovation can flourish, helping our members to build relationships, showcase their technology, and grow their business. Visit the programme page here.