Specialist Recruitment for Quantum, Photonics and Deep-Tech Talent

Connecting exceptional talent with the organisations shaping the future of Quantum and Photonics. Whether you’re looking for your next opportunity or building a specialist team, our experts are here to help.

Looking for your next opportunity in Quantum or Photonics?

Need specialist Quantum or Photonics talent?

Latest Opportunities

  • Principal Engineer Photolithography

    • Job reference: JN -092026-111231_1789402490
    • Location: Ipswich, Suffolk
    • Job type: Permanent
    • Job sector: Fabrication
    • Working arrangement: Office based
    • Salary: Negotiable
    • Published: September 14, 2026
    Principal Engineer – Photolithography Job Summary We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Principal Engineer specialising in photolithography processes to support advanced photonics R&D […]
    View Principal Engineer Photolithography job
  • PIC Design

    • Job reference: JN -092026-111227_1789396666
    • Location: Ipswich, Suffolk
    • Job type: Permanent
    • Job sector: Electronics & Semiconductors
    • Working arrangement: Office based
    • Salary: Negotiable
    • Published: September 14, 2026
    Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Design Engineer Location: UK | Full-time A leading global technology and research organisation is seeking a PIC Design Engineer to join […]
    View PIC Design job

Find Your Next Opportunity

Why Darwin

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Specialist Expertise

We understand the technical and commercial realities of the Quantum and Photonics industries.

Specialist Talent Networks

We connect organisations with highly specialised talent across niche and competitive markets.

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Global Reach

We access talent across international markets where specialist skills are in high demand.

Market Intelligence

Our understanding of active hiring markets, salary expectations and talent availability helps clients and candidates make informed decisions.

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Personalised Approach

Every search is managed by specialists who understand the sector, role and people involved.

Meet The Team

Daniel Butler

HEAD OF QUANTUM

As Head of Quantum, I work in close partnership with some of the world’s leading quantum computing businesses, helping them find top, niche talent in the industry.

Offering a range of services from Specialist Search, to Embedded Solutions, to Executive Search, I help businesses scale and hire experts working across all areas of quantum computing.

Jack Kindell

HEAD OF PHOTONICS
As Head of Photonics at Darwin Quantum, I connect leading photonics companies with exceptional niche talent across Europe and North America.
 
Working across the photonics ecosystem, I partner with start-ups, scale-ups, and global organisations, recruiting specialists in Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs), Silicon Photonics, Test & Validation, Optical Communications, Laser Systems, and Packaging.
 
Whether you’re looking to make a single strategic hire or build an entire team, we offer tailored recruitment solutions, including Contingent Search, Partnership Models, and Executive Search.

Reece Waldon

HEAD OF PQC & AI

Head of Post-Quantum Cryptography at Darwin, partnering with startups, scale-ups, and enterprise organisations advancing quantum-safe technologies.

I specialise in helping companies hire elite talent across post-quantum cryptography, quantum networking, secure communications, cryptographic engineering, and quantum-resilient infrastructure.

Oliver Logan

PHOTONICS CONSULTANT
I’m a Photonics Consultant, working with leading photonics companies in North America connecting them with specialist photonics talent.
 
I help start-ups, scale-ups and global organisations to grow their photonics team, with specialists in Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs), Silicon Photonics, Test & Validation, Optical Communications, Laser Systems and Packaging. 
 
We offer tailored recruitment solutions, including Contingent Search, Partnership Models and Executive Search.

Amanda Makhathini

QUANTUM CONSULTANT

I support Darwin Quantum’s delivery function, partnering with clients to identify and engage exceptional talent across the quantum ecosystem. I specialise in recruiting for QEC theorist, quantum computing, and quantum engineering.

I work closely with both clients and candidates to ensure every placement aligns with the technical requirements of the role as well as the long-term objectives of the organisation. I am recognised for my professionalism, clear communication and commitment to building trusted relationships throughout the recruitment process.

Nozipho Mbatha

PHOTONICS CONSULTANT

I partner with organisations developing advanced quantum computing and photonic technologies across Europe and North America, specialising in connecting exceptional engineering and research talent with organisations building silicon photonics, photonic integrated circuits (PICs), optical communications and quantum computing systems.


My understanding of these rapidly evolving technologies enables me to support businesses developing the next generation of computing, sensing and connectivity solutions.

Shenaaz Ahmed

QUANTUM CONSULTANT

I partner with organisations across the quantum industry, supporting clients throughout the recruitment lifecycle, from talent identification through to successful placement. I specialise in recruitment across niche technical and people-focused roles within deep tech and advanced engineering sectors, including quantum computing, quantum software engineering, quantum hardware & systems, quantum algorithms & applications, and quantum R&D / deep tech engineering talent.

I’m committed to building long-term relationships by understanding each organisation’s hiring requirements and connecting them with professionals whose technical expertise and values align with their business objectives.

Sindi Ngubane

PHOTONICS CONSULTANT

I partner with organisations across the quantum and photonics sector, helping connect exceptional talent with innovative businesses developing next-generation technologies.

I specialise in recruiting for quantum computing, photonics, optical engineering, and PIC design.
With extensive recruitment experience, I am passionate about creating positive outcomes for both clients and candidates.

Simile Fakazi

GRADUATE DELIVERY CONSULTANT

My speciality is connecting talented professionals with the right opportunities while helping clients find candidates who are not only qualified, but also the right fit for their business. With experience in recruitment and talent sourcing, I focus on building strong relationships, understanding individual needs, and delivering a personalised and professional service. Clients and candidates choose to work with me because I am approachable, proactive, transparent, and genuinely committed to achieving the best possible outcome for everyone involved.

Lungelo Makhanya

GRADUATE DELIVERY CONSULTANT

Analog IC Design Specialist focused on connecting exceptional engineering talent with opportunities across the semiconductor and technology industries. With a background in Psychology and Sociology, I bring a people-focused approach to specialist recruitment, with a growing technical focus on Analog IC Design, Mixed-Signal, RF and high-speed electronics. Passionate about understanding both the people and technology behind great engineering teams.

Testimonials

Proven In Practice

Quantum Search

Specialist recruitment for individual or ad-hoc Quantum and Photonics hires.

Quantum Partnership

Specialist recruitment for individual or ad-hoc Quantum and Photonics hires.

Executive Level Search

Research-led recruitment for senior Quantum and Photonics leadership appointments.

Need specialist Quantum or Photonics talent?

Looking for your next opportunity in Quantum or Photonics?