Head of Innovation and Partnerships / Chief Strategy Officer (CSO)

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Head of Innovation and Partnerships / Chief Strategy Officer (CSO)

The Niels Bohr Institute at Faculty of Science, the University of Copenhagen is looking for a Head of Innovation and Partnerships with effect as soon as possible to the Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP).

About Us

NQCP is a talented and diverse international programme working at the cutting-edge of quantum in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. At the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, where the formulation of Quantum Mechanics was born 100 years ago. We are building a world-leading quantum computing programme, that will drive research and innovations at multiple levels, from developing scalable quantum processor technologies to solutions for the quantum-classical control and readout interface, and all the way to quantum algorithms and applications.

The programme is supported by Quantum Foundry, a company established with focus on enabling QPU fabrication, assembly and packaging technologies.

Our program mission is to develop fault-tolerant quantum computing hardware and quantum algorithms that solve life-science-relevant chemical and biological problems.

Tasks

The Head of Partnerships and Innovation / CSO is responsible for ensuring mission alignment and progress across the various groups in our program. In addition, the job involves managing partner and satellite collaborations and connecting to the wider quantum ecosystem.

Your Tasks Will Include

• Interfacing and supporting venture funding relationships for spinouts and future funding options for the NQCP and QFC. Candidate should have venture capital experience.
• Representing and liasoning internationally and specifically with target relationships within Europe – e.g. EIC/EIB and globally with quantum groups including QSTAR, QuIC, QEDC, Quantum Industry Canada.
• Leading strategy around a targeted "country" European partnership
• Managing strategic collaborations with partner institutions and satellites
• Manage communication and external profile messaging in support the programme’s mission
• Follow-up on satellite progress and output and projects granted from the strategic pool
• Strategic approach and coordination of funding
• Sparring with scientists on IP processes in collaboration with KU Lighthouse
• Project management across NQCP groups
• Provide support to NBI leadership support as needed
• Lead shared resource teams within NQCP in support of Pathfinder Ladder as needed
• Develop and maintain a productive leadership and innovation culture at NQCP

We Expect Experience And Background In

• A PhD (or equivalent) in a field relevant to quantum computing such as physics or engineering
• Experience creating results in an international data- and mission-oriented environment
• Hard and soft project management skills needed to drive projects involving many stakeholders
• Strong leadership skills that allow you to set direction for your colleagues
• A talent for networking to forge productive collaborations
• Understanding of various institutional settings (academic, government, corporate, startup)

We offer

A central position where you will be an essential part of realising the mission of NQCP – an ambitious quantum programme at the historic Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen.

You will work across various research and engineering teams, and you will also interface with our partners as well as with the broader quantum ecosystem.

Life in Denmark is supported with strong social services (free universal healthcare, free/subsidised language courses, paid parental leave, subsidised day care institutions and excellent public schools). Our work culture is highly egalitarian and prioritises work-life balance. Dual-career families are common, and workplaces offer flexibility to help balance exciting careers and good family time. Danish cities are known for excellent infrastructure, such as extensive bike path networks. We can also offer a thriving food-scene, excellent museums, and beautiful natural scenery.

Terms of salary and employment

The employment and salary are made in accordance with the Circular on the Collective Agreement concerning academics in the state sector concluded between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations).

Employment will be as Senior Consultant. The salary is based on seniority and negotiation for salary supplement is possible. The working hours are 37 hours per week on average, and the working hours are flexible.

The position is limited to 31 December 2029 and the appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance.

Your application

If you find the job interesting, please send an electronic application with attachment via Jobportalen (click on the link "Apply Now" at the bottom of the post) no later than December 8, 2025.

The University of Copenhagen seeks to reflect society and encourages applications irrespective of personal background.

Further questions

Any questions about the position may be directed to CEO Peter Krogstrup [email protected]

The Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen – or SCIENCE – is Denmark's largest science research and education institution with 4,000 employees and 9,700 Bachelor and Master's students in 12 departments. The Faculty has an annual budget of DKK 3 billion.

Learn more about The Faculty of Science at

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Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.

Contact

Peter Krogstrup Jeppesen

E-mail: [email protected]

Info

Application deadline: 08-12-2025

Employment start: 01-02-2026

Working hours: Full time

Department/Location: The Niels Bohr Institute

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