Program Director, Quantum Initiative

Massachusetts Technology Collaborative - Westborough, MA

Full-time

Onsite - Westborough, MA

About the position

The Innovation Institute at the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech) is dedicated to fostering a vibrant ecosystem for technology and innovation in Massachusetts. A key focus of the Innovation Institute is to enhance the state's quantum technology and innovation landscape. This includes conducting assessments of the quantum ecosystem, hosting significant events like the Quantum Massachusetts Conference, and making strategic public investments in quantum infrastructure to bolster the state's quantum sector. Currently, the Innovation Institute is spearheading the establishment of the Massachusetts Quantum Innovation Engine (MQIE), an economic development initiative aimed at creating a transformative interdependent quantum ecosystem. This initiative is crucial for securing a US-based supply chain for quantum technologies, unlocking groundbreaking applications, and developing a robust workforce pipeline to meet the demands of employers in this rapidly evolving field. The Program Director will play a pivotal role in overseeing and supporting the full spectrum of quantum ecosystem development activities. This position is essential for advancing Massachusetts' status as a global leader in emerging quantum markets and technologies. The Director will be responsible for implementing a statewide quantum ecosystem development strategy and leading the MQIE, which is centered in Springfield. Collaboration with MassTech leadership, staff, and thought leaders across Massachusetts and New England will be vital to ensure the effective design and implementation of quantum programs, services, and investments that strengthen the region's quantum ecosystem. Building and maintaining partnerships with research institutions, industry, education, and workforce development organizations will be a key priority for the Director, as these relationships are critical for fostering growth in quantum technology and innovation. The role requires a leader who can navigate the complexities of technology and innovation-based economic development, with a strong understanding of research, commercialization, manufacturing, and workforce development. The Director will also need to stay informed about the national quantum ecosystem and anticipate the impacts of macroeconomic trends and emerging technologies on the quantum industry. This position is not only about strategic vision but also about executing that vision through collaboration and partnership across various sectors.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and support the full spectrum of quantum ecosystem development activities.
• Develop and implement a statewide quantum ecosystem development strategy.
• Lead the Massachusetts Quantum Innovation Engine (MQIE) initiative.
• Collaborate with MassTech leadership and staff to design and implement quantum programs and services.
• Build and maintain partnerships with research, industry, education, and workforce development organizations.
• Track and evaluate programmatic and contractual metrics to communicate impact and implement improvements.
• Engage with stakeholders to identify opportunities for technical and programmatic support.
• Develop written communications, presentations, and project briefs as needed.

Requirements

• 10+ years of professional experience in research, development, and/or industry.
• Experience working in academia, federal research labs, and industry, or an advanced degree in science, engineering, or business.
• Strong technical knowledge in Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE).
• Current knowledge of the national quantum ecosystem and its trends.
• Ability to assess the impact of macroeconomic outlooks and emerging technologies in the quantum industry.
• Familiarity with federal regulations and policies related to quantum technologies.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience funding or managing external research projects with academia and start-ups.
• Successful track record of federal grant proposal development and awards.
• Experience with technical membership trade associations.

Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule
• Competitive total rewards package