Laboratory Manager in Cambridgeshire

Cambridge, United Kingdom/ On-site/ Permanent, Full time/ Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 DOE

About Nu Quantum

Nu Quantum is on a mission to commercialise research generated over the last decade at the Cavendish Laboratory and to shape the future of quantum information systems. 

We’re working on cutting-edge technology that will improve the utility and accelerate the time-to-market of quantum computing systems.  We integrate novel quantum photonic technology to form an efficient and scalable quantum networking infrastructure in partnership with world-leading companies and academic groups.

The Role

Nu Quantum are seeking a highly organised and proactive Laboratory Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of our facilities in Broers Building and Maxwell Building on the West Cambridge site.

The work entails managing a dynamic, mixed environment laboratory specialising in optics, electronics, clean room, and mechanical disciplines. You will ensure the smooth running of the laboratory spaces; managing all aspects of their operation (Logistics, Purchasing, Equipment Maintenance, Health and Safety). You will be working with a world-class team of scientists and engineers; designing and developing brand-new Quantum optics systems that will manipulate quantum information at high speed. If you are an experienced laboratory manager and are open to taking on this challenge, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities:

• Manage and coordinate the activities of a multi-disciplinary laboratory, including optics, electronics, clean room, and mechanical areas.
• Oversee lab logistics, including equipment maintenance, equipment commissioning, inventory management, and procurement of consumables.
• Manage Health and Safety within the laboratory, ensuring compliance with regulations and protocols.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to optimise lab processes and workflows.
• Coordinate with engineering teams and tech leads to support experimental setups and projects.
• Collaborate with external vendors and contractors for facility maintenance and services.
• Provide technical support and training to laboratory staff as needed.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records related to laboratory operations and experiments.
• Identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance laboratory efficiency and productivity.

Requirements

Your Skills, Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelors, HND or equivalent qualification in a relevant field (e.g., physics, engineering, or a related discipline).
• Proven experience managing a laboratory or research facility, preferably in a mixed discipline environment.
• Demonstrable experience of health and safety management within laboratory environments.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory equipment and instrumentation, including optics, electronics, and mechanical systems.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant laboratory environment.

Experience with some of the following is not necessary, but a bonus:

• Familiarity with clean room protocols and practices.
• Experience with laser optics laboratories.
• Experience of managing Laser Health and Safety within a laboratory setting (training will be provided).
• Experience with cryogenic and UHV systems, their operation and maintenance.
• Experience in R&D start-up and/or scale-up environments.

Benefits

Working at Nu Quantum

At Nu Quantum, we are dedicated to exploring and expanding the boundaries of scientific understanding. As a team, we are bold and determined, driven by our desire to learn, research, and create. Our focus on quantum photonics sets us apart as we carve a new path toward scientific discovery.

At the core of our success is our commitment to teamwork. Our diverse backgrounds and experiences make us strong, and we recognise the importance of leveraging individual strengths to shape a shared future. We operate with a foundation of integrity, building trust through responsible actions and transparent communication. As an employer and partner, we are reliable and true to our word, and we are committed to reaching our ambitious goals with unwavering ethics.

Diversity and Inclusion

Nu Quantum values diversity and seeks to provide all staff with the opportunity for employment, career and personal development on the basis of ability and potential.  We believe that EVERYONE can bring fresh ideas, thinking and approaches which make the way we work more effective and efficient.

Our Values

Dedication to Excellence, Purposeful teamwork, Authentic Communication, Creative Exploration, Healthy Humility, Warmth

Benefits

• Group Life Assurance  (4 x salary)
• 1 month paid Sabbatical after 4 years service
• IP Bonus Scheme
• Generous Employee Referral Scheme
• Private Medical and Dental Cover
• On-site gym membership
• Cycle scheme 
• Fruit and drinks in the office
• Flexible working options
• 28 days annual leave + UK Bank Holidays
• Enhanced paid family leave policies 
• Time for Charity work
• Access to the Cambridge Botanic Gardens