From EU Policy to Quantum Ecosystems: Meet QDNL’s Julia Feddersen

Julia Feddersen didn’t start her career in quantum. However, her background in economics, EU-funded programs, and innovation policy laid the foundation for the work she does now helping shape the European landscape for quantum technologies. As Senior Advisor EU Programmes at QDNL and a WIQD Executive Board member in a personal capacity, she shares what drew her to the field, how inclusion can be a daily practice, and why real change starts with small actions.

Finding Her Way into Quantum

Julia began her career in Germany, focusing in her PhD thesis on institutional economics and later on innovation strategy. Through roles in research institutions and government agencies, she worked on major European funding programs supporting labour markets and regional development.

A turning point came when she visited the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO). She was impressed by the Dutch way of creating an ecosystem programme which is national but yet feels corporate. Her interest led her to join QDNL, where she helps Dutch researchers and companies secure EU funding for quantum initiatives.

“The ultimate reason I joined QDNL was because of Jesse Robbers, who was one of the directors at the time. When I was discussing the importance of inclusion, he said, ‘We might not have all the answers when it comes to inclusion but we’re open to learning, and we’re committed to trying.’ That openness meant a lot. And in practice, the support I received made me feel seen, valued, and genuinely cared for and that was everything.”

Connecting Policy, People, and Innovation

“I like to say I work at the intersection of the European Commission and Dutch quantum innovation,” she explains. “My role is to connect people, build connections, and make sure our ecosystem is visible and competitive at the European level.”

Her day-to-day involves monitoring new EU funding calls, building cross-border consortia, and coordinating applications with a mix of research institutions, startups, and universities. The goal? To secure resources that help the Dutch quantum ecosystem grow while strengthening European collaboration.

“This kind of work requires a great deal of networking and communication. It’s about staying aware of which institutions are active, who is focused on what, and then identifying the right people to connect and collaborate with. Bringing the right minds together at the right moment can make all the difference.”

A Place for Different Thinkers

For someone without a physics background, working in such a technical field might seem daunting, but for Julia, that’s part of the appeal.

“What I find powerful about quantum is the shared understanding that not everything can be fully explained and yet, we’re all working towards progress. And that brings people together.”

Inclusion Starts with Action

Inclusion is a key part of Julia’s work, both in her day job and through her role on the WIQD Executive Board.

“Of course, you need gender equality plans and diverse teams in proposals. But inclusion isn’t just a box you check. It’s about whether people feel safe, seen, and supported.”

That’s also what motivated her to join WIQD’s leadership. She began her career in what she describes as an “older reality,” where the underrepresentation of women in academia was not just visible, it was the norm. Even today, while working in more advanced ecosystem programmes, she continues to raise important questions about equity and inclusion: Do we truly respect each other? Are we acknowledging and addressing the biases that still exist?

“For me, inclusion is about creating a culture of openness. Real inclusion isn’t about checking boxes or pinkwashing. It’s about listening, reflecting, and making space for different perspectives to be heard and valued.”

Julia’s Advice: Follow Your Curiosity

Her advice to others — especially women or career-changers considering a future in quantum?

“Don’t hold back just because you’re not a physicist. Ask questions. Follow your curiosity. And remember: there’s more than one way to belong in quantum.”

👉 Looking for more inspiration? Read the whole collection of interviews on our website.