Quantum Commercialization Consultant – EU

The Quantum Commercialization Consultant serves as a principal advisor in translating quantum science innovations into viable commercial opportunities. Operating at the intersection of advanced research and industry, this role works closely with partner university TTOs, research institutions, and spin-out companies worldwide to evaluate new quantum technologies (e.g. in computing, communications, sensing) and devise strategies for their market adoption. The consultant leverages deep domain knowledge and business acumen to bridge laboratory breakthroughs and commercial success, helping stakeholders navigate the unique complexity, long development timelines, and high-risk nature of quantum technology ventures. The tone of engagement is highly professional and collaborative, aligning with Quantum TTO’s institution-facing mission and global focus.

About Applied Quantum

Applied Quantum is the world’s first professional services firm dedicated exclusively to quantum technologies—offering end-to-end solutions. We partner with enterprises, research institutions, and government agencies to deliver cutting-edge consulting, product development, and implementation services that harness the transformative power of quantum innovations. Our team of experts—spanning physics, engineering, cybersecurity, and business strategy—collaborates to bridge the gap between theoretical breakthroughs and real-world applications. Whether designing advanced quantum algorithms or securing networks against future cyber threats, Applied Quantum stands at the forefront of the quantum revolution, empowering clients to thrive in this new technological era.

About Quantum TTO

Quantum TTO (Technology Transfer Office) is an Applied Quantum specialized team focused on commercializing quantum research for global markets. This role would be operating within the Quantum TTO team. We expedite the journey from laboratory discoveries to fully realized products and solutions, forging strategic alliances with universities, startups, and industry leaders. Our mission is to accelerate adoption of quantum technologies—whether in computing, cryptography, sensing, or secure communications—and ensure that groundbreaking innovations make the leap into widespread use. By offering expert guidance in intellectual property, licensing, funding opportunities, and market strategy, Quantum TTO serves as the catalyst that helps visionary ideas reach their maximum commercial potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Technical Evaluation & Advisement: Assess emerging quantum technology disclosures and research outcomes for commercial potential, including analyzing technology readiness levels and possible applications.
• Commercial Strategy Development: Craft tailored go-to-market and commercialization plans for promising quantum innovations – advising whether to pursue licensing to industry or the creation of a spin-out venture, and outlining steps to achieve product-market fit.
• Mentorship and Training: Provide hands-on guidance to academic researchers and spin-out founders on business model development, pitching to investors, securing grants, and understanding market requirements. Conduct workshops or one-on-one mentoring to build commercialization skills within partner institutions.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate closely with university TTO officers, principal investigators, and industry partners to align technology development with market needs. Act as a liaison between scientific teams and business stakeholders, translating complex quantum concepts into clear value propositions for potential investors or corporate partners.
• Market & Industry Insight: Stay abreast of global trends in the quantum industry (computing, cryptography, sensors, etc.), advising project teams on competitive positioning and timing. Provide input to the Market Intelligence team to inform broader strategy and ensure individual project plans remain current with industry developments.
• Resource Linkage: Connect quantum project teams with relevant resources and opportunities – for example, matching a lab with potential corporate pilot programs, facilitating introductions to venture capitalists interested in deep tech, or identifying government funding initiatives supporting quantum commercialization.
• Risk Management: Identify key risks (technical, market, regulatory) in each commercialization plan and recommend mitigation strategies. Guide teams through the “valley of death” phase of development by structuring milestones and external support needed to reach a viable product stage.
• Documentation & Reporting: Prepare clear, formal reports and recommendations on each project’s commercial readiness for both internal decision-making and feedback to partner institutions. This includes drafting executive summaries of opportunities, due diligence reports on technology viability, and progress updates to funding stakeholders.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Educational Background: Advanced degree (Ph.D. or Master’s) in Physics, Quantum Engineering, Computer Science or a related field and strong business training (MBA or equivalent experience). A solid grounding in quantum technologies is essential.
• Tech Transfer/Consulting Experience: Minimum 5–7 years of experience in technology commercialization, innovation consulting, or tech transfer. Demonstrated track record of guiding scientific innovations to market (e.g. through startups launched or licenses executed) is highly desirable.
• Quantum Domain Knowledge: In-depth understanding of quantum technology domains (quantum computing, quantum communication/cryptography, quantum sensing, etc.) and their emerging industry landscape. Able to grasp cutting-edge research and assess its practical applications.
• Business Acumen: Strong knowledge of business strategy, market analysis, and product development processes. Capable of developing business models, conducting feasibility studies, and evaluating commercial viability for deep-tech ventures.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Able to convey complex technical information in a clear, concise manner to diverse audiences, including scientists, investors, and institutional leaders. Experience in cross-cultural or international collaboration is a plus given the global scope of Quantum TTO’s work.
• Analytical & Strategic Thinking: Proficiency in analyzing data and scenarios to inform strategic decisions. Adept at problem-solving, with the ability to foresee commercialization challenges and proactively develop solutions.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Experience setting project milestones, monitoring progress, and driving teams toward objectives within agreed timelines.

Preferred Skills or Attributes

• Entrepreneurial Insight: Experience founding or scaling a start-up (particularly in deep technology) or direct involvement in venture capital or incubator programs. This background aids in providing first-hand insights to spin-out teams.
• Global Perspective: Familiarity with international research collaborations and markets. Exposure to global quantum initiatives or consortia is an advantage, as is the ability to work effectively across different regulatory or business environments.
• Networking & Influence: Established network within the quantum technology industry, academia, and investment community. Ability to leverage contacts to benefit client projects (e.g. finding beta customers or partnership opportunities).
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work across disciplines – bridging scientists and business executives. Comfort in multidisciplinary environments combining physics/engineering with strategy and finance.
• Adaptability and Learning: Eagerness to continuously learn and stay updated on the rapid advancements in quantum tech and related commercial strategies. Able to quickly adapt advice as the market and technology landscape evolves.
• Professional Integrity: Unwavering commitment to ethical conduct, confidentiality, and quality of advice. Trusted to handle sensitive intellectual property and strategic information with discretion and honesty, upholding Quantum TTO’s reputation.

Reporting Line

Reports to the Director of Strategic Partnerships at Quantum TTO. Operates with a high degree of independence on client engagements while aligning with the strategic partnership goals and reporting regularly on project outcomes and learnings to the director and executive leadership.

Location and Travel Expectations

Based at Applied Quantum’s Munich office or Remote within EU. Travel: Significant EU-wide travel (approximately 25–30%) is expected to visit partner universities, research labs, and industry conferences. The consultant will engage on-site with stakeholders across different regions to provide hands-on commercialization support and represent Applied Quantum and Quantum TTO in professional forums worldwide.