Head of IP – Quantum Networking

Starting date: Immediately
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Job type: Permanent

At IDQ, we change the world, one photon at a time. We harness light to develop and industrialize the most advanced quantum products and technologies and help building long-term trust and solve important global problems. We offer quantum key distribution systems, photons detectors and quantum random number generators, and with them we provide the highest level of future-proof security. We also work on next generation quantum internet technology.

To strengthen our leadership position in the QKD and quantum networking markets, we’re looking for a Head of IP, Quantum networking , who oversees the development, protection, and enforcement of IDQ’s intellectual property assets, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets in the field of quantum networking. He/she will collaborate with R&D, business units, as well as other group companies and external counsel to ensure proper intellectual property strategy alignment and implementation. He/she will manage intellectual property portfolios, with external counsel handling filing and prosecution of applications, and monitors infringement risks. He/she will provide guidance on intellectual property licensing and commercialization opportunities, as well as intellectual property issues in collaborations.

Key functions and responsibilities

• Develop, implement and optimise a comprehensive global intellectual property strategy for the organisation
• Build, manage and expand intellectual property portfolios, including patents, to create value and protect company innovation
• Drafting and filing patent applications, representing ID Quantique in interactions with the EPO.
• Establish IP governance and internal initiatives to support and drive innovation
• Protect and defend the organisation’s intellectual property, anticipate intellectual property disputes, conduct landscaping and clearance assessments, execute on risk mitigation, and manage effective litigation when necessary
• Foster the identification of new inventions by colleagues in R&D and other departments
• Provide guidance to R&D and business units on patentability, freedom-to-operate, IP risks, and other IP matters
• Negotiate IP licensing agreements
• Provide guidance on IP clauses in agreements
• Stay informed on legal trends and changes in laws and regulations; advise on emerging IP issues to ensure innovative and cutting-edge approaches
• Contribute to and maintain positive working relationships, foster a cohesive, committed team environment and drive effective partnership with cross-functional teams

Desired skills and experience

• Master’s degree (PhD preferred) in Physics, Engineering, Computer Science or a related field
• Candidates should hold a relevant qualification with the European or US Patents Office to allow them to prosecute patents (EQE or equivalent)
• Minimum 4 years of experience prosecuting patents in a related field, plus continuing education in the field of intellectual property management
• Contributed, as inventor, to at least one patent application
• Outstanding verbal and written communication, and collaborative skills necessary to effectively partner with and advise engineers, scientists and other stakeholders in highly cross-functional teams
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Manage multi-dimensional projects in a fast-paced and evolving environment
• Strong analytical skills
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Experience with intellectual property research tools and databases, a plus.
• Good command of oral and written English (ability to communicate in French is a plus)

We offer

• Flexible working models to ensure a balance of family and working life.
• Optimal support on your career path through regular training opportunities.
• A dynamic and personal atmosphere, working with a global team of experts.
• A company culture that encourages performance and cooperation.

At IDQ, diversity & inclusion is at the heart of our organisation, it’s an integral part of our history, culture and identity. We recognise that embracing diversity unlocks innovation and creativity and fosters collaboration. As a result, our teams are stronger to drive the company’s future.

This position is open immediately.

Should you be interested by this opportunity, please send a full application to: hiring@idquantique.com , with Head of IP mentioned in the subject.

ID Quantique is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other status protected by law.