Founding CTO for Quantum Computing Company

About the role

Stax has been retained to find the Founding CTO for an early-stage quantum computing company based in one of Europe's most active quantum research ecosystems. The company is developing a proprietary dual-species neutral-atom architecture for scalable quantum error correction — a technically ambitious platform with a credible path to fault-tolerant quantum computing.

This is a genuine co-founding position. You will define the technology vision, build the laboratory from scratch, hire the team, and work hands-on alongside world-class physicists and engineers as the company transitions from early prototypes toward a scalable quantum system.

Key responsibilities

• Define and own the technology roadmap — hardware, software, and QEC strategy
• Lead the full lab build-out: UHV chambers, laser cooling and trapping systems, high-resolution optics, control electronics and software
• Recruit and develop a multidisciplinary team of quantum physicists, optical engineers, and controls engineers

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• Work hands-on on experimental tasks — laser calibration, pulse-sequence development, entangling operations
• Oversee design and implementation of quantum error-correcting codes on real neutral-atom hardware
• Represent the company externally — publications, patents, grant proposals, investor and academic engagement

What we're looking for

• PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or a closely related field with significant experimental quantum research
• Deep hands-on expertise in lasers, optics, atom trapping/cooling, vacuum systems, or closely adjacent experimental platforms

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• Familiarity with quantum control software, FPGA or real-time control, and classical QEC decoding algorithms
• Proven track record leading R&D projects and small teams — startup or new-lab experience strongly preferred
• Comfortable bridging day-to-day experimental work with long-range strategic and commercial thinking
• Open to relocation within the DACH region — full relocation support, visa and work permit assistance provided
• Fluent English required; German language skills an advantage but not essential

About Stax

Stax is a specialist executive search firm focused on deep tech, quantum, and advanced engineering. We work on a retained basis with founders and investors who are building at the frontier. This is a confidential search — we welcome approaches from candidates currently in academia, national labs, government research institutes, or industry.