QuantumCT is a public-private partnership accelerating the adoption of quantum technologies in Connecticut and beyond. QuantumCT is the nonprofit organization that serves as the statewide coordinating body for advancing quantum technologies and convening industry, early-stage innovators, academia, and the public sector. It is the result of a landmark partnership between Yale University and the University of Connecticut launched in response to the National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines program. Yale and UConn are also working in partnership with the state to advance Connecticut’s quantum ecosystem.
Quantum Technology Market
The United Nations has designated 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, celebrating 100 years since the initial development of quantum mechanics. McKinsey research in 2025 illustrates quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing could together generate up to $97 billion in revenue worldwide by 2035.
- Quantum computing could be worth $28 billion to $72 billion, quantum communication could be worth $11 billion to $15 billion, and quantum sensing could be worth $7 billion to $10 billion—for a total of as much as $97 billion.
- McKinsey predicts that by 2040, the total QT market could reach $198 billion.
Quantum Technology will affect many industries, including chemicals, life sciences, financial services, and mobility, which will experience the most growth. Private and public investors are increasingly confident that Quantum Technology start-ups will generate measurable value; in 2024 investors poured nearly $2 billion into Quantum Technology start-ups worldwide, a 50 percent increase compared to $1.3 billion in 2023.
Connecticut’s Investment in Quantum Technology
In November 2025, Governor Lamont announced new investments in Connecticut’s quantum technology infrastructure, workforce, and research capacity – a keystone moment in the state’s plan to fully capitalize on the economic opportunities created by next-generation technologies. The State of Connecticut pledged $121 million to QuantumCT. The funds will strengthen Connecticut’s already robust leadership in the emerging quantum economy by accelerating technology development, workforce training, and commercialization.
The investment will support the launch of the QuantumCT incubator, a fully functional deep-tech hub in New Haven. This first‑of‑its‑kind facility will combine co‑working and lab space with engineering and materials characterization capabilities, quantum testbeds, and onsite technical expert.
- UConn has embraced quantum research for decades and has added state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure to support its mission. In 2023, UConn opened major facilities aligned with quantum technologies, including the “Science 1” building on the main campus in Storrs. The facility offers highly advanced laboratories, including clean room facilities, needed to advance quantum materials and applied quantum research.
- Yale is investing in a new science and engineering complex to support initiatives in quantum science, engineering and materials research, instrumentation development, and the Yale Quantum Institute. The Upper Science Hill Development complex is one of the largest capital commitments in Yale’s history, totaling more than 600,000 gross square feet.
Director of External Affairs & Ecosystem Development | Position Overview
The Director of External Affairs & Ecosystem Development is a member of QuantumCT’s senior management team and strategic partner and advisor to the executive management team, and other key partners on matters of organizational and reputational significance.
The Director of External Affairs & Ecosystem Development will lead QuantumCT’s outward‑facing initiatives that shape the organization’s public presence and stakeholder engagement. This role is responsible for overarching branding and communications (MARCOM), cultivating a statewide quantum‑engaged community through events and convenings, managing key relationships with state and local government officials, and initiating federal engagement strategies. The position will also serve as the initial coordinator of workforce development efforts, in partnership with Yale, UConn, The Connecticut Office of Workforce Strategic and other ecosystem collaborators.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee QuantumCT branding, messaging, and digital presence; develop key messages and strategies to communicate complex information to multiple audiences and constituencies through a wide variety of communications platforms, including digital, print, social and media
- Build and sustain strong relationships with community partners, industry, and civic organizations to advance QuantumCT’s mission and visibility
- Serve as a liaison to the Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD), Connecticut Office of Workforce Strategy, state legislators, and local officials
- Represent QuantumCT in community and professional settings while leading initiatives that foster engagement and social impact.
- Design and execute community engagement events to foster an inclusive quantum innovation ecosystem
- Develop early‑stage federal government engagement strategies and lay groundwork for long‑term advocacy
- Work closely with ecosystem partners to coordinate workforce development initiatives, leveraging institutional partnerships to design training and talent pathways
- Collaborate across the organization to ensure unified messaging and communication alignment
- Support special projects for the CEO and the Board, ensuring effective coordination, reporting, and follow‑up on key initiatives.
- Assist in the preparation of state and federal proposals.
- Supervise junior staff and consultants supporting events, communications, and workforce programs.
Ideal Background
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public administration, marketing, communications, or related field is preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in external affairs, community relations, government affairs, public policy, and/or related fields
- Demonstrated success building partnerships with government officials, community organizations, business leaders, and academic sectors.
- Knowledge of state and federal legislative processes.
- Experience with STEM education, workforce programs, or quantum‑adjacent sectors is a plus
- Exceptional communication, public speaking, and relationship‑building skills.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to balance long‑term vision with day‑to‑day execution.
- Ability to represent the organization with professionalism, diplomacy, and credibility in diverse settings.
- Aligns Priorities: Ensures planning and prioritization of resources and work efforts; ensures alignment of direct and matrix reports to support organizational goals and business plans.
- Navigates Complexity: Manages a multitude of information and complex circumstances to discern what is most important; demonstrates effective problem‑solving, decision‑making, and takes appropriate action, even in difficult situations or with conflicting data.
- Builds Trust: Earns trust and credibility from team members, peers and stakeholders; demonstrates QuantumCT values of respect and integrity.
- Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve team, department and organizational goals.
- Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences; delivers clear and appropriate written and verbal communications; makes clear and impactful presentations to a variety of internal and external audiences.
- Self‑Awareness: Seeks feedback from others and takes ownership of, and actions to address what is learned; recognizes impact on others and adjusts as needed; pursues continuous learning opportunities; implements a meaningful development plan.
- Team Effectiveness: Effectively motivates team members and fosters a diverse and collaborative team environment; leverages team members¿ strengths for overall team effectiveness; incorporates insights to improve team operations.
- Purpose & Vision: Articulates a clear vision of expected outcomes; inspires others to execute work plans and feel a sense of purpose and ownership for the mission.
OPPORTUNITY
QuantumCT is an equal opportunity employer and we do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class. We actively encourage candidates from broad, diverse backgrounds to apply.
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