We are looking for a Program Director for the Quantum Safe Technologies (QST) and Applied Quantum Computing (AQC) Challenge Programs. The Program Director would be an individual who shares our core values of integrity, excellence, respect and creativity.
The NRC’s QST Program has launched in April 2026 and focuses on emerging cybersecurity threats linked to quantum computing. We will develop quantum-safe applications to strengthen the security of Canada’s critical sectors, including defence, health and transportation.
The NRC’s AQC program works closely with world-class academic and industry research partners across Canada to contribute to high-impact leading-edge research that is advancing the rapidly-moving field of quantum computer algorithms and software. The AQC program has recently completed its mid-term review. This role will leverage AQC’s current progress and scale up NRC’s contributions in the space of quantum algorithms to advance scientific discovery, delivering benefits to Canadians and contributing to Canada’s leadership in the quantum software sector. Furthermore, the director will work to advance the commercialization potential, exploring dual-use applications, building new partnerships and paving the pathway to future quantum computing initiatives.
NRC’s Challenge Programs leverage NRC’s well-established assets (facilities, expertise, and networks) to serve as the anchor for convening strategic, highly dynamic teams to address public challenges, government priorities and to stimulate business innovation. They bring together the best minds from academia, industry and government to deliver breakthroughs across the innovation continuum that matter to Canadians.
You will be part of NRC’s Digital Technologies Research Center, reporting to the Director General but will be expected to work collaboratively with multiple research centres, IRAP and business units across NRC. For these Challenge programs, the NRC will collaborate with partners from the private and public sectors, academia and other research organizations (both domestic and international). Under your leadership, the programs will bring together industry expertise, researchers and technical staff from across Canada’s AI ecosystem and NRC’s research centres to deliver on the program’s mandate.
