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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to develop cutting-edge optical measurement techniques for real-world applications.
- Company: Be part of NPL, a leader in pioneering sensing technologies and innovative research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous benefits, and opportunities for remote work.
- Why this job: Contribute to impactful research while collaborating with top scientists and presenting at global conferences.
- Qualifications: PhD in photonics or equivalent; strong candidates with a BSc in Physics or Engineering may apply.
- Other info: Must obtain BPSS security clearance; diverse backgrounds encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Role
Our world-leading department is seeking an experienced Scientist to develop innovative uses of ultra-precise measurements over optical fibre links.
This permanent, full-time position offers a generous salary and benefits package.
You will collaborate with prominent Scientists and Engineers to conceive, design, and build state-of-the-art ultra-stable setups for testing optical fibre systems and links.
You will share responsibility for research on applications of ultra-stable interferometry for scientific and societal purposes, such as:
- Earthquake and tsunami detection using seafloor cables
- Ocean signal monitoring, including currents and tides
- Distant atomic optical clock comparison over fibre links, including intercontinental distances
NPL has pioneered sensing techniques using existing undersea optical fibre networks and aims to expand these applications.
This role offers exciting opportunities to publish in high-impact journals and present at international conferences, contributing to a rapidly growing research field.
About You
Reporting to a Senior Scientist, you will develop applications of ultra-stable interferometry, from disseminating ultra-stable signals to earthquake detection with seafloor optical cables.
To succeed, you should have:
- Demonstrable laboratory experience with optical experiments and fibre optics
- Recent practical experience with laboratory electronics
- A PhD in a photonics-related field or equivalent experience; strong candidates with a BSc in Physics or Engineering may also be considered
- Experience coding for experiment control and data analysis using LabVIEW, Python, or Mathematica
- Excellent communication skills to simplify complex technical concepts
- A proactive, team-oriented attitude
Desirable skills include:
- Knowledge of feedback systems (PID controls)
- Understanding of frequency metrology concepts
- Knowledge of OFDR / OTDR techniques
Note: To work at NPL, you must obtain BPSS security clearance. We actively recruit candidates from all backgrounds, but security requirements may restrict eligibility based on nationality, residency, and security clearance criteria.
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Scientist - Photonics / Optical Frequency Metrology employer: National Physical Laboratory
Contact Detail:
National Physical Laboratory Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist - Photonics / Optical Frequency Metrology
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the photonics and optical metrology fields. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest advancements. This can help you gain insights into the role and make valuable connections.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and publications in ultra-stable interferometry and fibre optics. Being well-versed in current trends and breakthroughs will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your passion and commitment during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with laboratory electronics and optical experiments. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on, as this will showcase your practical skills and problem-solving abilities relevant to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your coding skills, particularly in LabVIEW, Python, or Mathematica. Consider working on small projects or simulations that relate to experiment control and data analysis, as this will help you feel more confident discussing your technical expertise during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist - Photonics / Optical Frequency Metrology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant laboratory experience, particularly with optical experiments and fibre optics. Emphasise any coding skills you have in LabVIEW, Python, or Mathematica, as well as your educational background in photonics or related fields.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the innovative work being done at the company. Discuss specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to contribute to ultra-stable interferometry and your understanding of its applications.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, consider including examples in your application that illustrate how you've simplified complex technical concepts in past experiences, whether in presentations, reports, or team collaborations.
Highlight Teamwork and Proactivity: The job requires a proactive, team-oriented attitude. Use your application to provide examples of successful teamwork in previous roles, showcasing how you contributed to group projects and your willingness to take initiative.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your laboratory experience with optical experiments and fibre optics in detail. Highlight specific projects you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your hands-on skills and understanding of the field.
✨Demonstrate Coding Proficiency
Since coding for experiment control and data analysis is crucial for this role, be ready to talk about your experience with LabVIEW, Python, or Mathematica. Consider bringing examples of your work or discussing how you've used these tools to solve problems in past projects.
✨Communicate Complex Concepts Simply
Excellent communication skills are essential. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a straightforward manner, as you may need to convey your ideas to team members from various backgrounds. This will show that you can collaborate effectively within a diverse team.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Scenarios
Given the collaborative nature of the role, think of examples where you've successfully worked in a team. Be ready to discuss your proactive attitude and how you contribute to group dynamics, especially in high-pressure situations or when facing tight deadlines.
