Quantum careers

Careers in quantum science at NPL

NPL actively bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world quantum research. For students eager to dive into quantum materials and technologies, NPL offers structured pathways ranging from high school work experience to technical careers.

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Pre-University Work Experience

If you are currently studying your A Levels or GCSEs, you can get a foot in the door through the NPL Academy.

• What it is: a week-long summer placement based at the main Teddington site.
• The experience: students are split into small teams, assigned an expert mentor, and given a practical scientific task.
• Quantum focus: projects frequently touch upon quantum science, advanced electronics, microscopy, and atomic clocks. It is highly competitive and designed for students who demonstrate a passion for STEM outside school.

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Paid Apprenticeships

You do not need a university degree to start working on quantum technologies. NPL has a thriving apprentice community with over ten apprentices fully embedded within the quantum programme teams. 

The Measurement Science Apprenticeship is a three-year programme focused on developing your expertise in metrology within a specialist science group. You’ll gain hands-on lab experience, contribute to real projects, and achieve a Level 3 Metrology Technician qualification. Case study here.

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Traditional Undergraduate Internships and Placements

For students who choose to study Physics, Materials Science, or Engineering at university, NPL provides essential industrial experience.

• Professional Training Years: NPL partners with institutions like the SEPnet - South East Physics Network to offer paid, year-long placements for undergraduates. Students spend 12 months working full-time on active research, such as testing superconducting components or calibrating quantum devices. 

Summer Studentships: NPL hosts competitive 8-to-10-week summer internships. These are hands-on, paid research projects where students assist senior physicists. Recent student projects have focused on graphene standards, nanomagnetism, and superconducting quantum information processing.

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How are they useful?

For those looking to commit long-term, the NPL Quantum Programme employs over 85 permanent scientists and heavily supports postgraduate advancement. 

• The NPL Graduate Scheme: our two-year scheme is open to university graduates across all STEM fields. It offers department rotations, giving you a chance to work in advanced materials, electromagnetics, and quantum technologies. 
  
  
• PhD Opportunities: NPL operates the Postgraduate Institute for Measurement Science (PGI), a programme supporting up to 200 PhD students across more than 35 universities. Through co-funding and co-supervision, postgraduate researchers access NPL’s world-class facilities to advance cutting-edge quantum research. The PGI also provides a structured programme of training and events for all members, and a PhD@Work pathway for NPL employees. Together, this creates a vibrant, connected community developing the next generation of quantum scientists.