Associate - Quantum Investment

Are you a recent PhD in quantum information science, theoretical physics, computer science or applied mathematics, curious about how quantum computing could transform life sciences? Do you want to help execute a new investment strategy from the ground up and invest in start-ups that pioneer adoption of quantum technology for human and planetary health applications?

Novo Holdings is seeking an Associate to join its Quantum Investment team in Copenhagen. Quantum technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, and we expect that in the near future, hardware will be mature enough to drive adoption by end-users. The team invests in start-ups that pioneer quantum computing or sensing technology for end-users in biotech, pharma, energy and the green transition. As an Associate, you will play a central role across the full investment lifecycle - from sourcing and evaluating opportunities, through transaction execution and due diligence, to active ownership and portfolio value creation.

This is a unique opportunity to join a high-performing investment team and gain significant responsibility from day one. You will work closely with senior investment professionals, management teams, advisors, and portfolio company boards, developing a venture capital skillset while helping grow start-ups within the quantum technology ecosystem.

Denmark’s combination of quantum research heritage – exemplified by the Niels Bohr Institute – and life science ecosystem, with companies like Novo Nordisk and Novonesis, makes this a natural home for the effort. Building on this momentum, we aim to develop deep expertise and a strong network in applying quantum technology to life sciences within Novo Holdings.

The job

Novo Holdings has launched a €180 million Quantum Fund, with the aim of investing in companies that use quantum technology to benefit human and planetary health. You will be contributing to delivering the strategy as laid out within Novo Holdings.

As Associate, you will:

• Support the identification and evaluation of promising quantum investment opportunities, and contribute to investment processes from start to finish
• Prepare investment memo’s, market landscape materials etc. under guidance from partners
• Contribute your insights on quantum algorithms and drive diligence on respective companies
• Help build Novo Holdings’ network and deal flow across the deep-tech and quantum ecosystem
• Support senior team members in board-related work and portfolio company follow-up
• Help build the Novo Holdings Quantum brand across the European technology ecosystem
• Collaborate effectively across the wider Novo Holdings organization on a global scale
• Develop your skills, network, and career within investment through hands-on exposure to the full investment process at a highly recognized international investment firm

Professional & Personal Qualifications

We are looking for a candidate with the following qualifications:

• A PhD in quantum information science, theoretical physics, computer science or applied mathematics, or a related field, with a thorough understanding of quantum algorithms
• Preferably, post-PhD experience working in start-ups, consulting, software or hardware industry or other related industries
• A genuine interest in start-ups
• A strong communicator
• No prior venture capital experience is required, though familiarity with VC would be a plus
• Ambitious, proactive, and self-motivated, with a structured and resourceful approach to problem-solving"
• Strong interpersonal skills, with a team-oriented and collaborative mindset who thrives in a dynamic and highly international environment 
• A track record of extracurricular activities alongside your studies (e.g. sports, societies, volunteering)

About Novo Holdings

Novo Holdings is a holding and investment company responsible for managing the assets and wealth of the Novo Nordisk Foundation. Our purpose is to improve people’s health and the sustainability of society and the planet by generating attractive long-term returns on the Foundation’s assets.

Novo Holdings is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, with additional offices in San Francisco, Boston, London, Singapore, Shanghai, and Mumbai. Novo Holdings is a leading global life sciences investor, investing in life science companies at all stages of development, with a portfolio of more than 170 companies. In addition to its life sciences activities, Novo Holdings manages a broad portfolio of public and private assets. As of year-end 2025, Novo Holdings had total assets of EUR 93 billion.

Contact

This role will be operating out of our Copenhagen office. Deadline for applying is 3 September 2026, but we encourage you to send your application as soon as possible.

We will review candidates on an ongoing basis and invite relevant candidates for interviews during September and October.

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter by clicking on the “Apply now” button.