Partnerships & Project Coordinator

As Partnerships & Project Coordinator at planqc, you will accompany large quantum hardware projects from start to finish — screening funding calls, coordinating applications, and coordinate projects once funded, all the way through to their successful completion. You will work closely with experts across planqc’s technical, financial, and leadership teams, as well as with external academic, industrial, and public-sector partners. Your coordination and communication skills will ensure that complex projects stay on track — and that strong, competitive proposals get submitted on time. The scope of responsibilities can be adjusted to make this role full-time or part-time, depending on your availability and preferences.Your responsibilities: 

• Proposal Coordination: Drive the full lifecycle of funding applications — from initial call analysis through submission to project start — coordinating input from internal & external teams (quantum engineering, software, algorithms, finance) and ensuring timely delivery
• Proposal Support: Help write funding proposals with technical input from internal experts and budgeting support from Finance
• Project Coordination: Coordinate large-scale hardware-focused projects after funding is awarded, including tracking milestones, deliverables, and reporting obligations
• Project Liaison: Serve as the main point of contact for funding agencies, consortium partners, and evaluators to ensure clear communication and smooth collaboration

Necessary requirements:

• Degree in science, engineering, public policy, or a related field
• Background in quantum technologies or another deeptech environment
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Excellent people skills: ability to build trust and collaborate with diverse internal and external stakeholders
• Strong writing skills, including the ability to explain complex topics clearly and accessibly
• Business fluent in both English and German
• Based in or willing to relocate to Munich; open to occasional travel

Supplementary skills:

• Experience coordinating publicly funded R&D projects
• Familiarity with EU and German funding programs (e.g. Horizon Europe, BMBF, DLR, IPCEI, NATO DIANA)
• Knowledge of proposal platforms and grant reporting procedures

This role can be structured as full-time or part-timeplanqc, founded in 2022 by scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), is a pioneering quantum computing startup based in Garching near Munich. We specialize in developing highly scalable neutral-atom quantum computers, utilizing individual atoms as qubits. 
Here’s why you’ll love being part of our journey:

• Cutting-Edge Innovation: At planqc, you’ll work with state-of-the-art technology, using individual atoms as qubits to build highly scalable quantum computers. Our unique approach combines precision from the world’s best atomic clocks, quantum gas microscopes, and high-speed Rydberg gates. Together, we’re creating the fastest path to industry-relevant quantum advantage.
• Impactful Projects: Join us as we develop groundbreaking quantum systems and software, including a 1,000-qubit computer for the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre (LRZ), a bespoke quantum computer for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and quantum algorithms for several DLR projects.
• Empowered by Excellence: With notable advisors and board members like Hermann Hauser (founder of ARM) and Professor Ann-Kristin Achleitner, we’re guided by exceptional leadership. Our Series A funding of €50 million allows us to push boundaries and explore new horizons.
• Dynamic Work Culture: We value innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team of around 50 brilliant minds works from locations in Garching, Ulm, and Innsbruck, fostering an environment where creativity meets ambition. 
• Recognition and Growth: planqc’s achievements are celebrated globally. From winning the German Startup Award in 2023 to being named a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum in 2024, you’ll be part of a company that’s making history.
• Work-Life Synergy: Whether it’s through team events, after-work socials, or opportunities to attend quantum conferences worldwide, you’ll find a supportive community that values both your professional and personal growth.