Program Director, Quantum Safe Technologies and Applied Quantum Computing Challenge Programs

Program Director, Quantum Safe Technologies and Applied Quantum Computing Challenge Programs

Priority may be given to the following designated employment equity groups: women, Indigenous Peoples* (First Nations, Inuit and Métis), persons with disabilities and racialized persons*.

* The Employment Equity Act, which is under review, uses the terminology Aboriginal peoples and visible minorities.

Organizational Unit: Digital Technologies

Classification: MGT-2

Tenure: Continuing

Work arrangements: Due to the nature of the work and operational requirements, this position will require full‑time physical presence at the NRC work location identified. At the NRC, we recognize that Indigenous candidates may have important connections to their communities and you may be eligible for an exception to this work arrangement. Alternative work arrangements may also be considered to accommodate candidates as required.

The role

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.

The Role, Continued

As Program Director, you will work with the NRC’s National Program Office (NPO), which is responsible for the day‑to‑day administration and oversight of Challenge Programs. You will collaborate with an NPO Innovation Investment Advisor, provide access to funding administered through the NRC’s NPO to defray costs of eligible external collaborators, and lead collaborative applied research and development projects.

To successfully direct the Programs, you will have experience leading collaborative applied R&D projects and managing financial and human resources. You will have experience with stakeholder engagement and business development and be able to demonstrate a significant knowledge and proven track record in leading successful and impactful research and development in the areas of quantum‑safe technologies and quantum computing. You will have expertise in a wide array of disciplines including cryptography, cybersecurity, quantum computing and algorithms, and be able to communicate and leverage your significant knowledge of the cybersecurity and quantum industry in Canada and internationally.

Screening criteria

Education

A PhD in computer science, engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or a field relevant to the position.

• Experience developing strategic program plans and associated metrics for innovation.
• Significant and recent administrative, financial, and human resource management experience.
• Recent experience in leading, planning, monitoring and aligning studies, projects or strategic initiatives within a fast‑paced and complex environment.
• Experience supervising and developing staff in multidisciplinary teams, ideally in a matrix environment of projects and programs.

Cryptography, Cybersecurity or Quantum Computing

• In‑depth experience working in the Canadian and international context around program‑specific cryptographic, cybersecurity, or quantum computing technologies: industries, forums, trends, issues, and the engagement needed to keep this knowledge current.
• Proven experience in establishing and managing partnerships, particularly with the cryptography, cybersecurity, or quantum computing communities including defining contributions, terms of engagement, reporting structures, and intellectual property ownership.
• Significant research and development experience in quantum‑safe technologies or quantum computing.

Communications

• Significant and recent experience in providing strategic advice to senior level executives in the public or private sector.
• Demonstrated experience designing and delivering impactful technical and programmatic presentations to diverse audiences.

Business Experience

• Significant business experience within relevant scientific and technological domains gained through industry, government, or partnership experience.
• Business experience in one or more of the targeted industry sectors— quantum safe technologies or quantum computing—would be an asset.

Significant experience is defined as the depth and breadth of the experience normally associated with the performance of the duties for a period of approximately three (3) years. Recent experience is defined as having performed the duties within the last five (5) years.

Condition of employment

A thorough security clearance process will be applied. For a Secret Clearance, verification of background information over a period of 10 years is required. Individuals must have lived in Canada for a sufficient period of time to enable the security screening process.

Language requirements

Note: In the event that no qualified bilingual candidates are identified, NRC may consider unilingual candidates who will be required to commit to achieving these levels within two years.

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

• Knowledge of the NRC’s mandate, programs and the unique requirements of an innovation program.
• Extensive knowledge of R&D management and strategic planning in a complex, interdisciplinary, and multi‑partner environment.
• Extensive knowledge of techniques for developing quantum‑safe technologies, including an understanding of global trends.
• Extensive knowledge in at least one of the following fields: quantum applications and software that enable the efficient simulation of complex physical systems, enabling technology such as tools and techniques that enhance the performance or scalability of quantum computing platforms, or foundational research into new quantum computing models and physical architecture.
• Knowledge of key players, industry dynamics, and business models for commercializing quantum‑safe and quantum algorithms in critical sectors, both nationally and internationally.
• Knowledge of policies and practices related to contract management, financial management, human resources, and procurement management.
• Capability to autonomously evaluate, manage, and assume risks for large‑scale applied R&D projects.
• Inspirational Leadership (Level 3)
• Strategic Outlook and Alignment (Level 3)
• Drive for Results and Efficiency (Level 4)
• Leverage Collaborative Relationships (Level 3)
• Client Relationship Management (Level 3)

Notes

• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• Preference will be given to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada. Please include citizenship information in your application.
• The incumbent must adhere to safe workplace practices at all times.
• We thank all those who apply, however only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

NRC employees enjoy a wide‑range of competitive benefits including a robust pension plan, comprehensive health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, office closure at the end of December, and additional supports to enhance your well‑being throughout your career and beyond.

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