Key facts
- The UK government is hiring a deputy head for the Office for Quantum.
- The role requires overseeing billions of pounds in quantum investment.
- The job advert states that no prior experience in quantum technology is necessary.
- Critics have described the recruitment approach as 'absurd'.
- The government has committed £2bn to quantum initiatives this year.
The UK government is seeking to fill a senior role within its Office for Quantum, responsible for overseeing significant national investment in quantum technology, including the purchase of large-scale quantum computers. However, the recruitment process has drawn criticism for explicitly stating that candidates do not need any prior experience or background in quantum science or technology. The advertised Grade 6 position, with an annual salary of £69,675, is intended to shape the rollout of the UK’s national quantum programme, guide the acquisition of quantum computing hardware, and attract further investment into the sector.
Critics, such as Ameer Kotecha, chief executive of the Centre for Government Reform, have labeled the recruitment approach as 'absurd,' questioning how a non-subject-matter expert can effectively engage with leading physicists or make informed decisions on highly technical investments. The government has committed £2bn to quantum initiatives this year, including £1.2bn for purchasing quantum computers by the early 2030s through its ProQure programme. The role also involves directing quantum infrastructure funding and supporting the adoption of quantum technologies by government departments.
Applicants are instead evaluated on general management skills like leadership, communication, and the ability to assess complex scientific evidence. This recruitment strategy comes at a time when the UK aims to leverage its early lead in quantum research into commercial applications and compete with nations like the US and China. The government has projected that the quantum sector could contribute £212bn to the UK economy and create 100,000 jobs. The advert also follows previous concerns raised by tech executives about potential disruptions and weakened business relationships due to the restructuring of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), though Kotecha suggests the quantum recruitment issue reflects a broader Civil Service trend of prioritizing generalist management over specialist expertise.