Forschungsmanager:in – Koordination des Centers Jülich Quantum Computing Alliance (JUQCA) (w/m/d) - Job Opportunity at Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

Jülich, Germany
Full-time
Senior
Posted: August 19, 2025
Hybrid
€57,216 - €82,020 per year

Benefits

Annual bonus payment providing additional financial security and performance recognition
Capital formation benefits supporting long-term wealth building and financial planning
Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program offering mental health and counseling support
Enhanced company pension scheme with employer contributions ensuring retirement security
30 vacation days plus additional bridge days providing superior work-life balance
Comprehensive occupational health management including sports facilities and wellness programs
Flexible working time models including near full-time options for optimal work-life integration
Location-flexible working arrangements enabling hybrid work opportunities
On-site medical services and social counseling providing immediate health and personal support

Key Responsibilities

Lead strategic coordination of the prestigious Jülich Quantum Computing Alliance (JUQCA) center, positioning yourself at the forefront of quantum computing research management in Europe
Provide high-level strategic advisory services to institute directors, corporate development, and executive board regarding center evolution and alignment with national and international quantum computing developments
Orchestrate complex interdisciplinary activities at the critical interface between cutting-edge research domains and administrative excellence, ensuring seamless operational flow
Drive comprehensive resource planning and allocation for JUQCA in collaboration with scientific leadership and participating institutes, managing multi-million euro research budgets
Execute strategic preparation and follow-up of high-level meetings and Center-Days while supporting third-party funding acquisition initiatives worth millions in research grants
Author and edit critical planning documents for Forschungszentrum Jülich and Helmholtz Association planning papers, directly influencing national quantum computing strategy
Manage editorial oversight of center progress reports and contribute to structural development plans that shape the future of quantum computing research in Germany

Requirements

Education

Master's degree in natural sciences or engineering, preferably with PhD

Experience

Experience in science management and committee work preferred

Required Skills

Konzeptionelles und selbstständiges Arbeiten Großes Interesse daran, sich in komplexe Themen einzuarbeiten Grundlegende Kenntnisse und Arbeitserfahrung in mindestens einem der Themengebiete der Center Ausgeprägtes analytisches und strategisches Denkvermögen Hohe kommunikative und soziale Kompetenz Verbindliches und sicheres Auftreten gegenüber internen und externen Partnern Sehr gutes schriftliches und mündliches Kommunikationsvermögen Verhandlungssichere Deutsch- und Englischkenntnisse
Advertisement
Ad Space

Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The quantum computing sector is experiencing unprecedented growth with global investments reaching $2.4 billion in 2022, creating enormous demand for specialized research management professionals who can bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical applications. Organizations worldwide are establishing quantum research centers and alliances, driving the need for experienced coordinators who understand both the technical complexities and administrative requirements of large-scale quantum initiatives. European quantum computing initiatives are receiving massive funding through programs like the EU Quantum Flagship (€1 billion investment) and national quantum strategies, positioning research management roles in quantum computing as highly strategic and influential positions within the broader European research ecosystem. The role of research managers in coordinating these initiatives has become critical to ensuring successful technology transfer and international competitiveness. The intersection of academia, industry, and government in quantum research is creating new hybrid roles that require professionals who can navigate complex stakeholder relationships, manage interdisciplinary teams, and translate scientific breakthroughs into strategic advantages. This trend is particularly pronounced in Germany, where the government has committed €2 billion to quantum technologies through 2025.

Salary Evaluation

The provided salary range of €57,216 - €82,020 annually is competitive for the German research sector and reflects the specialized nature of quantum computing research management. This compensation is well-positioned within the TVöD-Bund scale and comparable to similar research management positions at Max Planck Institutes or other Helmholtz centers, with the total compensation package including benefits likely reaching €90,000-€100,000 in equivalent value.

Role Significance

The position likely involves coordinating activities across multiple research institutes and administrative departments, potentially managing relationships with 50-100 researchers and staff members across the JUQCA network, while working within a core research management team of 5-10 professionals in the corporate development division.
This is a senior-level strategic position that operates at the intersection of science, administration, and policy, with direct influence on national quantum computing research directions. The role holder will have significant autonomy in shaping one of Europe's leading quantum research initiatives and will interface regularly with institute directors, executive leadership, and external partners at the highest levels.

Key Projects

Strategic development and implementation of quantum computing research roadmaps aligned with European Quantum Flagship objectives and national quantum initiatives Coordination of large-scale international quantum research collaborations involving multiple institutions, industrial partners, and government agencies Management of multi-million euro research proposals and third-party funding applications for quantum computing infrastructure and research programs Development of quantum technology transfer initiatives bridging fundamental research with industrial applications and startup ecosystem development

Success Factors

Deep understanding of quantum computing research landscape combined with exceptional strategic thinking ability to anticipate technological trends and position research initiatives for maximum impact within the rapidly evolving quantum ecosystem Superior communication and relationship management skills to effectively coordinate between diverse stakeholders including world-class researchers, administrative professionals, industrial partners, and government representatives while maintaining focus on strategic objectives Strong analytical and project management capabilities to handle complex resource allocation, timeline management, and strategic planning across multiple concurrent research initiatives with varying timelines and success metrics Cultural competency and language skills to operate effectively in international research environments while maintaining strong connections to German and European research policy frameworks and funding mechanisms

Market Demand

Demand for quantum computing research managers is exceptionally high due to the rapid expansion of quantum research initiatives globally and the scarcity of professionals with both technical quantum knowledge and research management expertise. The specialized nature of this role, combined with Germany's significant investment in quantum technologies, creates a highly favorable job market for qualified candidates.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Strategic thinking and planning capabilities are absolutely essential as this role involves setting research directions and coordinating initiatives that will influence the future of quantum computing in Europe, requiring the ability to anticipate technological developments and align research activities with long-term strategic objectives Exceptional communication skills in both German and English are critical for success, as the role requires regular interaction with international research partners, government officials, and industry representatives, while also managing complex internal communications across multiple research institutes and administrative departments Strong analytical and project management abilities are fundamental requirements, as the position involves managing complex resource allocation decisions, coordinating multiple concurrent research initiatives, and ensuring effective implementation of strategic plans across diverse organizational structures

Beneficial Skills

Technical background in quantum computing, physics, or related fields would provide significant advantages in understanding research challenges, communicating effectively with scientific staff, and making informed strategic decisions about research priorities and resource allocation Prior experience in research administration or science policy would be highly valuable for navigating the complex regulatory and funding landscapes that govern large-scale research initiatives, particularly in the context of European and national quantum technology programs International research collaboration experience would enhance effectiveness in managing relationships with global quantum computing initiatives and positioning Jülich's research activities within the broader international quantum research ecosystem

Unique Aspects

This role offers unprecedented access to Europe's quantum computing ecosystem, with opportunities to shape the strategic direction of quantum research across multiple institutions and influence national quantum technology policy at the highest levels
The position provides unique exposure to cutting-edge quantum technologies and direct interaction with world-leading quantum researchers, offering exceptional professional development opportunities in one of the most rapidly advancing fields in science and technology
Working within the Helmholtz Association provides access to Germany's largest research network and opportunities for international collaboration on a scale that few other institutions can offer, particularly in the high-priority area of quantum computing research

Career Growth

Career advancement to director-level positions typically occurs within 5-7 years, with opportunities for rapid progression given the explosive growth in quantum computing investments and the scarcity of experienced quantum research management professionals in the European market.

Potential Next Roles

Director of Quantum Research Strategy at major research institutions or technology companies, overseeing comprehensive quantum research portfolios worth hundreds of millions of euros and setting strategic directions for quantum technology development Senior Science Policy Advisor for quantum technologies at national or European level, influencing government funding priorities and regulatory frameworks for quantum computing development across Europe Chief Strategy Officer or Research Director positions at quantum computing startups or established technology companies, translating research breakthroughs into commercial applications and leading corporate quantum initiatives

Company Overview

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

Forschungszentrum Jülich is one of Europe's premier research institutions and a cornerstone of German scientific excellence, ranking among the largest interdisciplinary research centers in Europe with over 7,500 employees and an annual budget exceeding €800 million. As a member of the prestigious Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest scientific organization, Jülich conducts world-class research in quantum computing, energy systems, neuromorphic computing, and climate science, with direct influence on national and European research priorities.

Jülich holds a top-tier position in the global quantum computing research landscape, housing some of Europe's most advanced quantum computing systems and maintaining strategic partnerships with leading technology companies including IBM, Google, and Intel. The institution's quantum computing initiatives are central to Germany's national quantum strategy and play a crucial role in European quantum sovereignty efforts.
Located in the dynamic Rhineland region between Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Aachen, Jülich benefits from proximity to major industrial centers, world-class universities including RWTH Aachen, and a thriving technology ecosystem that facilitates collaboration between academia and industry while providing excellent quality of life and career opportunities.
The institution fosters a collaborative, international research environment that values scientific excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary cooperation, with strong emphasis on work-life balance, professional development, and creating an inclusive workplace that attracts top talent from around the world.
Advertisement
Ad Space
Apply Now

Data Sources & Analysis Information

Job Listings Data

The job listings displayed on this platform are sourced through BrightData's comprehensive API, ensuring up-to-date and accurate job market information.

Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Our advanced AI system analyzes each job listing to provide valuable insights including:

  • Industry trends and market dynamics
  • Salary estimates and market demand analysis
  • Role significance and career growth potential
  • Critical success factors and key skills
  • Unique aspects of each position

This integration of reliable job data with AI-powered analysis helps provide you with comprehensive insights for making informed career decisions.