Quantum Computing Jobs Italy

What Is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing is able to do superposition and entanglement, which allows it to solve complex problems that regular computers cannot. Under its National Strategy for Quantum Technologies, Italy aims to become one of the top European competitors in the sector. The country is enhancing and promoting development in Computing, Communication, Sensing, and Metrology. Quantum Technologies affects multiple sectors in Italy, including Cybersecurity, Pharmaceuticals, Finance, Materials, and Advanced Manufacturing.

This partnership is a prime example of how Italy’s innovation ecosystem can drive progress by bridging world-class academic research with cutting-edge industrial development. Michele Dallari, CEO of Planckian

Italy’s Quantum Rise: A Country Building Big Momentum

Investment in quantum technology in Italy is primarily based on the country's good academic reputation. Over the last ten years, other countries including Germany, the UK, and France have spent more, but Italy is now trying to close this gap. Italy invested €227.4 million in quantum technology in the years 2021 to 2024. Although it is less than what the leaders of Europe are spending, it is the beginning of a substantial effort. You can read quantum jobs Germany here.
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On March 5, 2025, Italy launched its National Strategy for Quantum Technologies. The Ministry of Universities and Research, the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the National Cybersecurity Agency prepared this 65-page document. The strategy includes research and other aspects, such as infrastructure, human capital, and the role of the private sector.
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The launch of Q-Alliance in October 2025 marked another significant milestone. This association includes IonQ, D-Wave Quantum, and Italian research and public administration institutions to construct a significant quantum center in Lombardy. Alessio Butti referred to this as a ‘paradigm of open innovation’ and a symbol of Italy’s emerging leadership.
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Italy has a strong advantage because of its long history in physics, mathematics, and engineering. The major institutions like the University of Pisa, University of Turin, University of Naples Federico II, and the Normale Superiore School have been molding quantum research for the last several decades. Now is the time to convert this research and scientific excellence into a robust quantum industry so that we can retain the best minds in Italy.

Job Market Outlook in Italy

Italy’s quantum job market is growing, with demand rising in research, engineering and software roles. Academic institutions lead hiring, while startups and industry positions are expanding steadily.

Current Landscape: Building Momentum

The Italian job market for quantum is growing exponentially. There is an increase in roles being offered in the research sector and there is a notable growth in the commercial sphere as well. In 2024, Spain was the fastest growing country in Europe with a 306 percent increase in its quantum workforce, now being only Italy and the Netherlands. This dynamic growth is the result of Italy’s determination to construct a quantum workforce across a multitude of domains. You can read Quantum Jobs Netherlands here.
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Today, Italy has several hundred jobs in quantum computing. These quantum jobs are spread across universities, research institutions, startups and foreign companies that have opened offices in the country. Italy's quantum workforce is now more widely distributed than ever before. Whereas in other countries most positions are within tech giants, in Italy most quantum jobs are in public service, research divisions and newer Italian startups. Other international companies are now seeing Italy as a strategic hub.
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For quantum talent, the combination of Italy's strong educational system and its newly emerging marketplace makes Italy an attractive choice. At the Politecnico di Torino, researchers get to collaborate with IQM Quantum Computers, one of the country's first quantum computing processors. At the University of Naples Federico II and its QTLab, there is a 25-qubit superconducting quantum computer and close collaboration with Italian quantum startups.
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Italy is expected to see a significant number of job opportunities in the next 3 - 5 years due to the Q-Alliance and the National Quantum Strategy. The establishment of new facilities, educational outreach, and the injection of funding will ensure an expanding number of positions for those looking to support the development of Italy's quantum economy.

A Quantum Ecosystem Under Construction

Italian quantum businesses are at a crucial point. The National Quantum Strategy aims for Italy to be a leader in quantum technology in Europe by 2030. Steps are being taken to achieve this goal, such as adding new quantum-targeted graduate programs, new industry-academia collaborations, and introducing new industrial PhDs. The goal is to develop talent that transforms the concept from the laboratory to a commercial reality.
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Between 2021 and 2024, Italy invested €227.4 million in quantum technologies. This is still lower than the investment quantum technologies are receiving from Italy’s European competitors, Germany, France, and the UK. Funding for Italy’s quantum technologies is still expected to increase. New resources are being added to Q-Alliance and European EU support through the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking. 13 million euros is already guaranteed by the EU for Italy, partially funded by the EU and partially by the participating states for the quantum computer.
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Italy will see more quantum workers due to new research jobs funded by the government, new Italian startups, international companies opening branches in Italy and traditional industries adopting quantum technologies. The most significant constraint is the retention of this trained talent. Italy performs well in the field of physics, but career paths are not well structured in the field.

Helping IT professionals switch to quantum software development is also part of the strategy. The Quantum Insider expects the creation of 250,000 quantum jobs within the next few years, with 840,000 estimated worldwide by 2035. Italy is planning to capture a sizeable fraction of these jobs.

Industry Demand is from Academia to Application

Italy’s quantum job market is moving away from pure research into more practical applications. Universities are still central; they keep employing researchers, postdocs, and PhD students who advance the theory, and also train the next generation. What is new, however, is the growing partnership between academia and industry, with collaborative research targeting specific practical challenges.
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There are now, especially, Italian startups like Planckian, which is a joint spin-off from the University of Pisa and the Scuola Normale Superiore, which has made a remarkable contribution to job creation. The company, which has a 14-strong employee base, is building scalable superconducting quantum processors with simplified control systems and has raised more than €2.7 million in pre-seed funding in 2023, the company’s CEO Michele Dallari commented that the company’s clear goal drives the recruitment of talent, with 80% holding PhDs and over four nationalities represented on the team.
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Quantum Telecommunications Italy, part of CNR-INO, is the first Italian company to work in Quantum Key Distribution and quantum communication networks. It was founded in 2020 and headquartered in Florence, QTI employs physicists, telecom engineers, photonics specialists, software engineers, and system architects. In 2021, QTI was the first to complete and provide a three-node intergovernmental quantum communication link connecting Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia.
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Ephos is a quantum start-up founded in 2022 that raised $8.5 million to open a quantum photonic chip facility that minimizes signal loss.
Global players in the quantum domain have also expanded to Italy and in the framework of Q-Alliance, IonQ and D-Wave Quantum have opened new positions for junior researchers, engineers, and application developers.
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Many conservative sectors, like finance, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and the public sector, are exploring quantum technology. They focus on using it for optimization, as well as in areas such as molecular modeling, supply chain management, risk engineering, logistics and material discovery. The government especially emphasizes the potential in cybersecurity.
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The protection of sensitive information is certainly a priority as Italy is also a large economy in Europe, a member of NATO, and is developing quantum-safe cryptography and secure communication systems, which creates a need for specialists in quantum security.

Federal Investment

Italy's approach to quantum investment is both practical and ambitious. Italy's National Strategy for Quantum Technologies shows interest in quantum as a primary national focus with coordination across several ministries. The countries focus is on working on areas within Italy's budget quantum focus for Italy to attain leadership in a particular field in Europe.
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Italy's national strategy aims to support basic and applied quantum research. The plan includes creating national testing facilities and shared labs for startups and industries. Additionally, there will be a national funding strategy for quantum research. Italy adds quantum research funding programs and tax credits for private companies to encourage research interest funding. For Italy's national quantum research programs, Italy is trying to develop the national quantum research infrastructure, especially quantum processors and fabrication facilities.
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Most of the funding in the quantum sector is geared toward public investment. In comparison, private investment is extremely low. From 2023 to 2024, venture capital funding in Italy's quantum start-ups was only €12.5 million, a figure is considerably lower than the quantum innovation funding in the United States and the rest of Europe. Italy's strategy plans to entice investment funding from large private Italian companies in the finance, energy, and manufacturing sectors to efficiently fund public-private partnerships that reduce the investment funding risk to provide the intended closing of the funding gap.
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Italy is also tied closely to European programs like the Quantum Flagship, EuroQCI and EuroHPC. It is giving researchers access to European systems and collaborative projects.
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Workforce development is a major focus. The plan calls for more quantum graduate programs, industrial PhD paths, training for IT professionals entering quantum and routes for international experts to work in Italy.

Academic Pipeline for Strong Foundation

Italian universities are known for being some of the best in the world at training physicists and specialists in quantum mechanics. They are now in the process of expanding their quantum-related programs and are revisising their curricula to prepare students for roles as both researchers and employees in the private sector. The biggest challenge is not the scientific and educational quality, but rather the scaling of such programs and providing students with adequate workplace competencies.
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Multiple universities are spearheading this change. The University of Pisa, along with Scuola Normale Superiore, offers programs in quantum information. It is also the birthplace of Planckian, the first Italian startup focused on quantum information. Politecnico di Torino has developed, and now owns, quantum computing infrastructure and maintains close business partnerships with students, providing both academic and employment opportunities. The University of Naples Federico II manages and runs the QTLab, where students acquire operational skills with quantum computers.
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This ecosystem is quite novel and the National Research Council is providing some of the base funding for the quantum activities performed in its many institutes. CNR-INO plays an important role in researching quantum communications and photonic devices. It also helps in creating the Quantum Technology Institute (QTI).
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One of the main issues is that of losing graduate students to better funded opportunities abroad. The National Strategy has Set clear objectives for solving this issue by designing new specific programs that provide adequate funding as well as better integration with Italian quantum start ups.

Quantum Computing Jobs Italy: Salary Ranges by Role

Italy is becoming a growing center for quantum technology, which is affecting salaries for quantum computing jobs in the country. As compared to the US or UK, compensation packages are lower, but within Southern Europe they are considered competitive. The lower cost of living in quantum hubs compared to Zurich, Paris, or London, also skews the outlook. Salaries are mainly in Euros (EUR). You can learn more about Quantum Jobs Salaries here.

Average Salary Overview

Quantum Research Scientist: €35000 to €60000 a year for postdoctoral researchers and early-career scientists; €60000 to €90000+ for senior researchers and principal investigators at universities and research institutions.

Compensation Considerations

Cost of Living Advantage:

• Salaries in Italy are in a more comfortable range than in Northern
  
• Housing in Turin, Pisa, or Naples is a fraction of the cost of Paris, London, or Zurich
  
• Great food, culture, and lifestyle for low expense
• Coverage for public healthcare is included

Tax Structure:

• Progressive tax rates in Italy (23% to 43% based on income)
• Research tax incentives available for certain positions;
• Social security contributions included

Additional Benefits:

• Academic Positions: Research funding, conference travel support and sabbatical opportunities
• Industry Positions: Performance bonuses (typically 5-15% annually); equity in startups (0.5% - 3% for early employees)
• Health Insurance: National healthcare system plus optional private insurance
• Meal Vouchers: Common benefit (€5-8 a working day)
• Annual Leave: Generous by global standards (typically 4-5 weeks minimum)

Geographic Variations:

• Milan/Northern Italy: +10-20% above national average
• Rome: +5-10% above national average;
• Southern Italy: -10-15% below national average (with proportionally lower living costs)
• Turin, Pisa, Florence: National average

International Comparison Context:

• About the same as Spain and slightly lower than France or Germany.
• Italian quantum salaries are within the 40-60% range of comparable US positions.
• Lower cost of living is a meaningful counter to the salary differences.
• There are important cultural perks as well as decent work-life balance.

Salary data compiled from Italian job postings, European quantum salary surveys, university positions, and ‘Quantum Jobs List’.

What Skills and Degrees Are Needed for Quantum Jobs in Italy?

To work in Italy’s quantum sector, strong skills in quantum mechanics, programming (Qiskit, Cirq, Pennylane) and linear algebra are essential. A PhD in physics, engineering or related fields is often required for research roles.

Suggested Read: Qualifications You Need for a Quantum

Educational Requirements

Minimum Qualifications: Laurea (Bachelor degree) in Physics, Computer Science, Engineering (Electronics, Telecommunications), Mathematics or related fields

Preferred Qualifications:

• Laurea Magistrale (Master degree) with focus on quantum physics, quantum information or quantum engineering
  
• PhD (Dottorato di Ricerca) for research scientist positions & senior roles
• Postdoctoral experience for principal investigator & senior research positions.
• Publications in peer-reviewed quantum journals.

National Research Institutions

National Research Council (CNR)

• CNR-INO (National Institute of Optics) - Florence: Quantum communications, photonics and QTI spin-off.
• CNR-IFN (Institute for Photonics and Nanotechnologies): Quantum photonics and devices.
• Multiple institutes conducting quantum related research across Italy.

National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN)

• Quantum computing applications for particle physics
  
• Quantum algorithm research and development.

What Are the Top Italian Universities with Leading Quantum Programs?

Politecnico di Milano – Milan

• Quantum computing and quantum information courses in Physics and Engineering
• Strong connections to Milan's emerging tech ecosystem
• Partnerships with Italian industry & international quantum companies

University of Milan (Università degli Studi di Milano)

• Quantum mechanics and quantum information in Physics department
• Research in quantum optics, and quantum technologies

Politecnico di Torino – Turin

• Home to Italy's first quantum computer (IQM system)
• Active research in superconducting qubits and quantum hardware;
• Quantum Communications & Integrated Photonics Lab (PICquantiC).
• Strong industrial partnerships in Turin's tech sector
• Master's programs in Physics of Complex Systems with quantum focus.

University of Pisa – Pisa

• Co-founder of Planckian quantum startup spin-off
• Collaboration with Scuola Normale Superiore;
• Quantum information & quantum computing research
• Strong theoretical and experimental quantum programs

University of Florence (Università degli Studi di Firenze)

• Quantum optics & quantum information research
• Connections to QTI quantum telecommunications company
• Collaborations with CNR quantum institutes

University of Naples Federico II – Naples

• Quantum Technologies Lab (QTLab) with 25-qubit quantum computer
• Active collaborations with Italian quantum startups;
• Quantum computing courses in Physics and Engineering
  
• Research in superconducting quantum systems

Sapienza University of Rome – Rome

• One of Europe's largest universities with quantum research programs
• Quantum information & quantum optics research groups
• Physics department with strong quantum foundations.

What are the Top Skills for Quantum Careers in Italy?

Technical Skills

To get a quantum computing job in Italy, you must have some technical skills focused on combining advanced science knowledge with strong computational, and problem solving abilities.

• Quantum Mechanics Fundamentals: Comprehensive understanding of quantum theory, superposition, entanglement, quantum gates and measurement
  
• Classical Computing: Strong foundation in algorithms, computational complexity, data structures
• Programming Languages: Python (Qiskit, Cirq, PennyLane), C++, MATLAB and Julia for quantum simulations
• Linear Algebra & Mathematics: Advanced proficiency in vector spaces, matrix operations, eigenvalue problems, tensor algebra.
• Quantum Algorithms: Knowledge of major algorithms (e.g. Shor's, Grover's, VQE, QAOA) & ability to develop new approaches.

Hardware & Systems

Hardware and systems skills for quantum jobs focus on understanding quantum devices, experimental setups and system level integration. These all are required for reliable performance.

• Quantum Hardware Platforms: Understanding of superconducting qubits, trapped ions, photonic systems, or specific platforms relevant to Italian research.
• Experimental Physics - For hardware roles: laser systems, cryogenics, RF/microwave control and measurement techniques.

Applied & Professional Skills

• Scientific Communication: Publishing research, presenting at conferences, explaining quantum concepts clearly
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working across physics, computer science, engineering and application domains.
• Language Skills: English fluency essential; Italian helpful for integration and some positions, particularly in government funded projects

In-Demand Specializations

• Quantum Photonics: Italy has strong research tradition and companies (e.g. QTI, Ephos) in photonic quantum technologies.
• Quantum Sensing & Metrology: Applications in navigation, timing, and measurement.
• Superconducting Quantum Systems: Hardware development focus at multiple Italian institutions.
• Quantum Communications: Strategic priority with QTI leadership and government interest in secure communications.
• Quantum Algorithms & Software: Growing demand as Italian companies begin quantum application development.
• Quantum Cryptography: Cybersecurity applications & post-quantum cryptography implementation.

What Companies Hiring for Quantum Jobs in Italy?

Universities like Politecnico di Torino, University of Pisa, and University of Naples Federico II lead hiring, alongside startups such as Planckian, QTI and Ephos. International companies through Q-Alliance also create growing opportunities.

Italian Quantum Startups

Planckian (Pisa, Tuscany)

About:

• Founded: 2023 as University of Pisa & Scuola Normale Superiore spin-off
• Vision: Building simplified quantum computing systems to overcome scalability challenges
• Focus: Scalable superconducting quantum processors with simplified control architectures
• Funding: €2.7 million pre-seed funding
• Team: 14 professionals, 80%+ with advanced degrees, and international team
• Hiring: Quantum physicists, superconducting circuit engineers, quantum control engineers and software developers.

Quantum Telecommunications Italy (QTI) (Florence, Tuscany)

About:

• Founded: 2020 as CNR-INO spin-off
• Applications: Secure communications for government, finance & critical infrastructure
• Focus: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems and quantum communication networks
• Notable Achievement: First three-node intergovernmental quantum communication demonstration (Italy-Slovenia-Croatia, 2021).
• Hiring: Quantum physicists, telecommunication engineers, photonics experts, software engineers and systems architects.

Ephos (Milan, Lombardy)

About:

• Founded: 2022
• Vision: Manufacturing scalable quantum photonic components.
• Focus: Glass-based quantum photonic chips for quantum computing, communication & sensing.
• Funding: $8.5 million seed funding.
• Innovation: World's first dedicated facility for glass-based quantum photonic chips (Reduces signal loss vs. Silicon)
• Hiring: Photonics engineers, materials scientists, quantum chip designers and process engineers.

Research Institutions & Universities

Politecnico di Torino – Turin

About:

• Academic and research positions available
• Postdoctoral fellowships and PhD positions,
• Quantum computing infrastructure on campus

University of Pisa & Scuola Normale Superiore – Pisa

About:

• Research positions in quantum information and quantum computing
  
• PhD programs & postdoctoral opportunities,
• Strong connection to Planckian startup

University of Naples Federico II (QTLab) – Naples

About:

• Research positions utilizing 25-qubit quantum computer
  
• Graduate student & postdoctoral positions;
• Collaborations with Italian quantum industry

CNR Institute

About:

• CNR-INO (Florence): Quantum communications and photonics research positions
  
• Researcher and technician positions;
• CNR-IFN: Quantum photonics & device engineering
• Other CNR institutes with quantum-related research

International Companies with Italian Operations

IonQ (Q-Alliance Partner, Lombardy)

What They Do:

• Global leader in trapped-ion quantum computers
• Establishing Italian presence through Q-Alliance
• Hiring: Research scientists, quantum applications engineers and customer success managers

D-Wave Quantum (Q-Alliance Partner, Lombardy)

What They Do:

• Pioneer in quantum annealing systems
• Building Italian quantum hub through Q-Alliance
• Hiring: Quantum algorithm developers, applications engineers and business development

IBM Italia

What They Do:

• Italian operations of global quantum leader
• Access to IBM Quantum systems & Qiskit platform
• Occasional quantum related positions in Italian offices

Emerging Italian Quantum Startups & Scale-ups

Italy's quantum ecosystem includes:

• 5-10 quantum-focused startups in various stages from founding to scale-up
• Government labs working on quantum applications for defense & cybersecurity;
• Multiple university spin-offs commercializing research (Planckian, QTI)
• International companies establishing Italian operations through Q-Alliance, and other initiatives
• Research institutions expanding quantum programs and infrastructure

Best Cities for Quantum Computing Jobs in Italy

Top cities for quantum jobs in Italy include Turin for hardware and research, Milan for business and commercial roles, Pisa and Florence for academic research and startups, Naples for southern opportunities and Rome for government-linked positions.

1. Turin (Torino) – Industrial Innovation Meets Quantum

Why Choose Turin for Quantum Careers

Turin combines Italy's industrial growth with its role as a center for quantum technology. Politecnico di Torino has one of Italy's first quantum computers; which students and researchers can use. Politecnico is one of a few schools in Italy to offer this service. PICquantiC works on commercial superconducting qubits and other quantum processors.
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With a history of industrial Fiat and aerospace, the city's old economy is still growing into new high-tech opportunities, and the quantum field is a natural fit. Compared to Milan, Turin's lower livings costs, great urban service, and access to the Alps make it an advantage. Turin has a small a small quantum community, where industry and university cooperate, giving it the right environment for people to get hardware experience and work on commercial projects, while enjoying a good quality of life.

2. Milan (Milano) – Business Capital Embraces Quantum

Why Choose Milan for Quantum Careers

Milan has the international background, aspiration, and business side for quantum computing. As the business and financial hub of Italy, it perfectly suits the needs for quantum in finance, consulting, and other business services. Here, in Lombardy, it is likely for Q-Alliance to establish a hub, and get IonQ and D-Wave Quantum for both public and private funding.
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Ephos, the quantum photonics chip company that raised €8.5 million, had to select Milan due to its proximity to investors and European markets, as well as the engineering resources available at Politecnico di Milano. The city has a thriving Milan ecosystem that provides business venture capital, supports businesses, and fosters corporate partnerships.
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Every city has a cost of living, and in Milan, rent in the city center ranges from €1,200 to €1,800. However, quantum jobs frequently come with a 10-200% premium on salary. Milan has the most to offer in terms professionalism for those seeking business and/or entrepreneurial opportunities cross sector collabs, though at the moment, entry-level positions are limited as the ecosystem expands.

3. Pisa & Florence (Tuscany)

Why Choose Pisa and Florence for Quantum Careers

Tuscany's quantum lighthouse hubs are Pisa and Florence. Florence has many academic and commercial centers for research. The University of Pisa and Scuola Normale Superiore contributed to the creation of Planckian, Italy's leading quantum computer, making Florence an important hub for photonics research.
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Pisa is the most affordable and livable of the new research cities on the block. Scuola Normale Superiore has a reputation for the kind of standards one sees in Europe's leading universities, but they are more laid back when it comes to pace and costs. The Scuola blends with Florence in a regional quantum cluster, combining theory strengths with photonics expertise.
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CNR-INO and QTI offer quantum optics and quantum networking positions, all while walking through the culturally diverse Florence and its ancient streets. Compared to Milan, the cost of housing is more affordable. If you value freedom and balance in your life, along with the Tuscan lifestyle, these towns offer that. However, there may be fewer job opportunities in industry. Italian is often necessary for successful integration.

4. Naples (Napoli)

Why Choose Naples for Quantum Careers

Naples is the center of quantum potential for the south of Italy, thanks to the University of Naples Federico II and its Quantum Technologies Lab (QTLab). QTLab holds and operates one of the world's only 25-qubit superconducting quantum computers, in cooperation with commercialization-hopeful startups like Planckian. For those attracted to the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle and potentially shaping an immoving ecosystem, Naples is one of a kind.
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Italy is developing its quantum ecosystem outside of the traditional centers in the North, and you will play a role in this growth. The University of Naples Federico II is a leading institution combining ancient historical prestige with cutting edge modern research. QTLab offers experience on quantum hardware and fast tracks theory through industry.
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Naples is cheaper compared to other cities in Italy such as Torino, Milano, and Firenze but it still offers unique cultural, foods, and coastal experiences. Since the Naples quantum jobs network is small, other career routes are possible but are less sequential than the rest in the field. For those wishing to experience the Mediterranean and cheaper lifestyles, and remain job offered in the quantum field, Naples is ideal.

5. Rome (Roma) – Capital Ambitions Meet Quantum Research

Why Choose Rome for Quantum Careers

Rome is the center of Italy's national quantum policy. It is home to Sapienza University and the University of Rome Tor Vergata, along with other national and international government organizations. Rome does not offer the dense startup ProXinity of Torino and Milano, but Rome provides an opportunity to steer and influence the country's quantum policy, gain government sponsorship, and support in defense, cybersecurity, and public service.
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Rome offers quantum research in information, optics, and foundations. The size of the city makes it feel different from smaller communities. However, it offers more career options, especially in the field of quantum technology. The same controls the position in the emerging quantum job in governance and support to the national and international public and defense.
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Living costs in Italy vary from high in Milan to more affordable in the south. Rome offers rich culture, international connections and great food; but traffic and bureaucracy can be frustrating. It's ideal for those interested in policy or government jobs, while hardware and startup roles fit better in other cities.

How to Land a Quantum Job in Italy?

Landing a quantum job in Italy starts with building strong skills in physics, computer science or engineering. You must focus on hands-on projects, research experience & familiarity with common quantum tools. Connecting with Italian labs, startups and industry events can also help you.

Step 1: Build Your Quantum Foundation

Jobs at Italian universities and research institutions in quantum research and teaching need strong skills in both theory and practice. Take advanced courses in quantum mechanics, quantum information theory, and linear algebra. For research positions, a PhD in quantum computing, quantum communication, or other related domains is highly esteemed.
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Get practical experience with quantum programming frameworks, like Qiskit, Cirq, and PennyLane. Open-source collaboration and a GitHub repository with quantum programmes will enable you to showcase skills in programming for quantum computers. Italian employers request a combination of theory and practical skills, so demonstrate theory and practical skills through your projects, publications, and coursework to improve your chances in the quantum job market in Italy.

Step 2: Gain Practical Experience

Collaborate in open-source quantum computing projects, particularly those associated with Italy or Europe. To improve your skills and get noticed, participate in hackathons and competitions like the IBM Quantum Challenge, Microsoft Azure Quantum and other European quantum competitions.
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Internships or research activity in Italian universities and CNR institutes are worth applying to. Many of these institutions accept international interns and visiting researchers, giving you first access to Italy’s quantum community and demonstrating to future employers your willingness to work in Italy. Co-authoring research papers is a good addition to your academic profile.
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If you’re outside Italy, consider remote collaboration with Italian quantum groups. Italian researchers usually have international collaborations. By contributing to projects with Italian principal investigators, you’ll start to build your network and showcase your worth to the Italian quantum ecosystem ahead of your move.

Step 3: Network in Italy's Quantum Community

The Italian quantum community is smaller than those in the US and other large European countries, but it is well-connected and easy to reach. Participate in Italian and European quantum conferences. Many European universities have a series of workshops and seminars open to international participants. University conferences, CNR quantum workshops, and European meetings with Italian researchers are some of the most important events.
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Contacting Italian quantum researchers and academicians through LinkedIn and ResearchGate is worthwhile as they respond to collaboration requests or messages from students. To find new job opportunities and learn about company activities, follow Italian quantum companies like Planckian, QTI, Ephos, and check job boards such as Quantum Jobs List.
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Participate in online grouping in Europe in quantum communities like Quantum Computing Stack Exchange, Qiskit Slack, and European quantum forums, as Italian professionals are active in those forums, providing a link to the Italian quantum ecosystem.

Step 4: Understand Italian Immigration and Work Pathways

For EU/EEA Citizens: If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you get a lot of perks when it comes to working in the field of quantum in Italy. There are no visa requirements, you get to apply for jobs directly, and you have total access to the Italian marketplace. You only need to register with the local authorities after you arrive. Because this is so administratively simple, EU employers in the quantum field are less likely to bother with the lengthy visa applications for people who don’t have EU citizenship.

For Non-EU International Candidates: Non-EU quantum professionals face more complex immigration processes; though Italy offers several pathways for skilled workers:

Highly Skilled Workers (Blue Card):

• Minimum salary requirements (approximately €25,000-30,000 a year; lower than many EU countries).
• EU Blue Card for highly qualified workers.
• Renewable after initial period and pathway to permanent residence.
• Quantum computing qualifications and job offers typically meet criteria.

Researcher Visa:

• Specific visa category for researchers at universities and research institutions.
• Popular route for postdoctoral positions & research scientist roles;
• Relatively streamlined process for qualified researchers with position offers.
• Includes mobility rights within EU for research purposes.

Important Considerations:

• Italian bureaucracy can be slow; visa processing may take 3-6 months.
• Employers must demonstrate inability to fill position with EU candidates (labor market test).
• Learning Italian significantly improves approval chances & integration.
• Professional qualifications may require recognition/equivalency process.

Step 5: Apply Strategically

Resume Optimization:

Use the European CV format, which is usually longer. You should include full education details. Good to list publications, conference talks, and academic achievements. Add Italian language skills, European collaborations or Italy links. Show both theory & practical experience.

Application Channels:

University roles appear on university sites and niche job boards such as Quantum Jobs List. Many research roles come from direct emails to principal investigators. Startup roles are on company sites and LinkedIn. Use European quantum job boards & networks. Conference networking is often more effective than formal applications.

Interview Preparation:

Be ready to discuss quantum fundamentals in depth. Try to prepare a clear research presentation in English; Italian helps. Show interest in Italy & willingness to integrate. Even basic Italian effort matters. Hiring timelines can take months.

Language Considerations:

English is enough for many research and international roles; Italian is important for mid career growth. Some government or teaching roles require Italian. Learning Italian improves career options & daily life.

Professional Development Resources

Professional development for quantum jobs in Italy includes: Online courses, university programs and industry workshops. These help professionals build practical skills and stay current with new quantum technologies.

Online Learning Platforms

IBM Quantum Learning:

• Free Qiskit tutorials & documentation
• Italian language Qiskit community resources available
• Hands-on quantum programming experience

Coursera & edX:

• Quantum computing courses from international universities
• Some courses available with Italian subtitles
• European university offerings often aligned with Italian curriculum

European Quantum Flagship Resources:

• Educational materials from EU quantum initiative
• Webinars and workshops accessible to Italian quantum community;

Qiskit Global Summer School:

• Annual intensive quantum computing training
• Highly regarded by Italian quantum employers
• Free, competitive admission

Professional Certifications

European Quantum Certifications:

• Emerging certification programs through European quantum initiatives
• May gain importance as Italian quantum industry develops

IBM Certified Associate Developer:

• Recognized credential in Italian quantum community;
• Demonstrates practical quantum programming skills
• Available globally, useful before relocating to Italy

Quantum Books

• "Quantum Computation and Quantum Information" by Nielsen & Chuang (considered essential by Italian quantum researchers).
• Italian quantum research publications on arXiv.org.
• European quantum journals and conference proceedings.

Italian Language Learning

• Online platforms: Duolingo, Babbel, iTalki for Italian tutoring
• University language courses often available to researchers
• Language learning improves career prospects and quality of life substantially;
• Many Italian quantum researchers willing to help language learning.

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10 Min. Read

November 22, 2025

10 Quantum Error Correction Jobs, Salaries & Career Roadmap

Quantum error correction jobs offer high salaries and 10-20% premiums. Discover 10 careers, required skills, and how to break into this talent-starved field.

Quantum Jobs in Italy

Application Developer - IBM Cloud

IBM

2026 Applied Scientist Intern

Amazon

Applied Scientist Intern

Amazon

Applied Scientist Intern

Amazon

Application Developer - Cloud

IBM

Data Scientist Internship

Amazon

For More, Please visit Quantum Jobs in Italy

FAQs

Here are a few common questions people ask about quantum careers in Italy. These are covering topics like needed skills, education paths, top employers and future growth.

Start Your Quantum Computing Career in Italy Today

Italy offers excellent working conditions and valuable opportunities for research and development in quantum computing. The National Quantum Strategy, along with the Q-Allaince partnerships with international players and the growing presence of Italian startups, positions the country as one of the main players in quantum computing.
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You will get to enjoy the Italian lifestyle, culture, and food while helping to develop a strong quantum ecosystem in the country. As a researcher, you will have full academic freedom. If you're an engineer, you will have access to the commercialized and emerging technological hardware and for the entrepreneurs, the quantum space will have ample opportunities. Some of the challenges include a lower salary range, bureaucracy of the Italian systems, and a not fully developed commercial field. However, if you are someone who values culture, lifestyle and one of the most compelling quantum opportunities in the world, then Italy is for you.

Italy is uniquely positioned to become a European leader in quantum computing. Francesco Tafuri, Head of QTLab, University of Naples Federico II

Next Steps

• Research Current Opportunities: Explore quantum positions at Italian universities, research institutions, and startups listed in this guide.
• Assess Your Qualifications: Compare your background against Italian quantum role requirements;
• Build Italian Connections: Connect with Italian quantum researchers on LinkedIn and ResearchGate.
• Start Italian Language Learning: Begin studying Italian even before securing position - demonstrates commitment;
• Consider Visiting: If possible, attend quantum conference or workshop in Italy to experience ecosystem firsthand
• Apply Strategically: Target positions matching your expertise while demonstrating genuine interest in Italian quantum community.

Long-Term Outlook: Italy's Quantum Future

Government Vision and Commitment

The Italian National Quantum Strategy aims to make Italy a leading competitor in quantum technologies in Europe by 2030. Compared to the likes France and Germany, Italy has a bigger economic focus on quantum communications and photonics, and that is the field of quantum research that Italy excels as well.
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The Italian National Quantum Strategy is based on Italy's history of competing for Northern investments in Europe, the smaller number of quantum startups and the ongoing challenges of brain drain in Italy. It enables needed actions to be more direct, concentrating on the positive, filling the talent gaps, and relying on collaborative work with other European countries to build on what Italy can not.
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The collaboration of various ministries like Universities and Research, Defense, Foreign Affairs, and Cybersecurity shows that quantum has national significance. The concentration on defense and cybersecurity will create government demand even in the slow growth environment of the commercial market, allowing the opening of positions in the areas of research, policy, and applied quantum.

European Integration

Italy's future in quantum technology depends on Europe. By joining initiatives like Quantum Flagship, EuroQCI, and EuroHPC, Italy gains access to important partnerships and resources that would be hard to reach otherwise. These collaborations are essential for progressing in the field of quantum technology.
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The Q-Alliance, which combines IonQ and D-Wave into the Italian market, represents the collaboration of Italy with other members of Europe. Italy provides talent and location, North American companies provide the technology and the EU funds the collaboration to build the required infrastructure. This model is likely to be the blueprint for other international companies looking to establish a presence in Europe.
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Italian quantum professionals benefit from European mobility. This allows them to collaborate easily with others in Europe, share resources, and have their Italian qualifications recognized across the EU.

Startup Ecosystem Development

Italian quantum startups are growing, but the progress is slow. They face several challenges, including a lack of venture capital, and a small domestic market. Startups are als facing strong competition from northern Europe and the US. Despite these issues, the ecosystem is developing.
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Planckian is the most recent to attract investor attention by raising €2.7 million in a pre-seed round. QTI is the first to win enterprise and government contracts, demonstrating that Italian startups can land serious deals. The Ephos round of $8.5 million was one of the largest seed funding rounds in recent years and underpinned the bullish sentiment of international investors towards Italian startups.
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Government support for new businesses includes incentives for commercialization, partnerships between public and private sectors, and access to EU funding. To create a successful ecosystem of quantum startups, public policy and government support must focus on engaging the private sector. This engagement is crucial for moving beyond just small improvements.

Industry Adoption

EQ is negligible. Unlike the US (where the finance and pharmaceutical sectors are quantum-active), most Italian firms are still at the stage of understanding quantum and its implications.
The National Strategy, while a step in the right direction, is still overly concentrated on finance, logistics, and pharmaceuticals.
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Italy’s strengths in manufacturing, fashion, automotive & food/agriculture could benefit from quantum in optimization, supply chains and materials design. Success depends on the quantum community engaging these sectors and showing practical value.

Talent Development and Retention

To ensure Italy's quantum future is bright, we must develop (and keep) our quantum professionals. Talented quantum researchers are poached by UK, US, and Swiss institutions due to a lack of funding. To reverse this trend, we must provide better financial compensation, career development, and research opportunities. You can read more about Quantum Jobs Switzerland here.
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To address this issue, Italy's National Strategy involves industrial PhDs, recruiting IT professionals for quantum training, and countering the brain drain, amidst administrative challenges, limited career progression, and the prevailing belief that pursuing a career ambition means leaving Italy.
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By building a quantum ecosystem, Italy can retain talent and attract researchers to develop the Italian scientific culture. Italy has the potential to offer the career opportunities and quality of life that will change the attraction to Italy for researchers and the researchers for Italy.

Realistic Assessment

No one will be surprised if Italy fails to become a quantum computing Silicon Valley. Italy's lack of entrepreneurial culture, dense venture capital, and quantum ecosystems compared to the US is well known. Italy also does not appear to be increasing funding for quantum computing at the same rate as Germany and the UK, which is also developing quantum startups.
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There is potential for Italy to be a significant player in the industry. Universities produce high-quality research, startups, including Planckian, QTI and Ephos, are gaining traction in foreign markets, and Italian companies are searching for quantum solutions. Italy is also positioned to be a point of connection between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, providing new and previously unavailable quantum-related jobs.
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Italy provides a supportive environment for professionals to create their own designs and lifestyles. If this environment thrives, it enhances culture and opportunities for success. Italy will not be the first choice for top salaries or the densest of networks, but for those interested in impact and flexibility, and of course the Italian culture, it should be considered.

This guide is regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in the Italy's quantum computing job market.