Laser Scientist

At DiPOLE Systems, we are developing laser systems for real-world deployment in advanced manufacturing, energy and defence. The challenge is not just achieving exceptional performance, but delivering hardware with the robustness and repeatability those applications demand.

About DiPOLE Systems: We’re a venture-backed deep-tech company developing high-performance laser systems that combine high power with high repetition rate operation. Built on core IP developed at STFC’s Central Laser Facility, our work focuses on turning breakthrough science into products that can be manufactured, deployed and supported in the field. DiPOLE systems are already in use at major international research facilities, and we’re now building the next generation for wider commercial deployment.

Why now: We’ve recently closed our seed round and are scaling the team to develop new product lines based on technology already demonstrated in the lab. Our focus now is on reducing size and complexity, improving robustness, and translating advanced laser designs into products that can be built, deployed and supported at scale.

The role: We’re hiring a Laser Scientist to support the development of next-generation laser systems, including nanosecond, picosecond, and femtosecond architectures based on DiPOLE amplifier technology. This is a hands-on role focused on laser product development, where you will contribute to the design, build, integration, testing and optimisation of advanced laser systems. Working closely with senior scientists and engineers, you’ll help translate novel laser concepts into robust, manufacturable products. The role combines practical laboratory work with modelling, data analysis and performance characterisation. You’ll play a key part in understanding system behaviour, identifying performance limitations and supporting continuous product improvement. The role reports to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

What success looks like: You’ll contribute to the successful development and validation of new pulsed laser products. You’ll help build and characterise prototype systems, analyse performance data, support design improvements and contribute to the transition from laboratory demonstrators to reliable commercial products suitable for deployment in real-world environments.

What you’ll do:

• Support the design and development of advanced laser systems from concept through prototype development and testing.
• Build, align and integrate optical assemblies and laser subsystems.
• Perform hands-on laboratory testing, characterisation and optimisation of laser performance.
• Analyse experimental data and generate clear technical reports and recommendations.
• Develop numerical models of laser and amplifier performance to support system design and optimisation.
• Define and execute test plans for subsystem and system-level validation.
• Work closely with optical, mechanical, electronics and systems engineers during product development activities.
• Contribute to technical documentation, design reviews and product development processes.
• Support technology transfer from R&D activities into product development programmes.
• Maintain safe laboratory practices and support continuous improvement of experimental facilities.

What you’ll bring:

• A background in physics, photonics, optical engineering or a related discipline, gained through a PhD, equivalent industrial experience, or substantial hands-on laser development experience.
• Approximately 5-7 years’ post-graduate experience working with laser systems in a research or industrial environment.
• Good understanding of laser physics and optical systems.
• Hands-on experience building, aligning and troubleshooting laser systems.
• Experience performing experimental testing, measurement and data analysis.
• Familiarity with laser diagnostics and optical characterisation techniques.
• Strong experimental and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Good technical communication and documentation skills.
• Good understanding of laser safety practices and standards.
• Experience with high-power or high-energy, diode pumped solid-state laser systems.
• Experience modelling laser amplifiers, resonators and optical systems.
• Experience of short-pulse laser systems and chirped pulse amplification (CPA) architectures.
• Familiarity with optical design and simulation tools such as Zemax OpticStudio.
• Knowledge of nonlinear optics and pulse characterisation techniques.
• Experience working within a product development environment.
• Programming skills in MATLAB, Python or LabVIEW for modelling, control and data analysis.
• Knowledge and experience of vacuum systems.
• Experience working in precision laser laboratory and cleanroom environments, and with translating system requirements into optical specifications with external suppliers.
• A track record of scientific publications, conference presentations, or other external technical contributions, and willingness to travel occasionally in support of customers, partners or technical representation.

Why join DiPOLE: Join early and help shape a venture-backed deep-tech company as we move from prototype to product. Work on technology that’s already proven in real-world environments. Develop your capability across laser design, experimental build, product validation and system-level engineering, with close support from senior scientists and engineers. Tackle challenging, real-world laser system development problems with direct relevance to deployable products. Be based at Harwell Campus, Didcot, one of the UK’s leading environments for advanced science and engineering. Work in a team that values thoughtful design, strong technical standards, clear documentation and sustainable pace. Develop ambitious dual-use technology at the frontier of innovation.

Compensation & practicalities: Equity: employee share options (we expect to offer options as part of the package; exact grant depends on experience and will be discussed during the process). Typically, options vest over time (often with a 1-year cliff); we’ll confirm the scheme and terms during the process. Primarily on-site, reflecting the hands-on nature of the work. Flexible working arrangements supported where compatible with lab, build and test activity.

Hiring process: We aim to run a clear process: an application form, an initial call, a technical interview, and a practical/design discussion (we’ll share what to expect in advance). We’re happy to make reasonable adjustments for candidates who need them. If you’re not sure you tick every box but you think you’d be great in the role, we’d still like to hear from you. Think you’d be a great fit for our team? Even if there isn’t a current vacancy that suits you, feel free to send us your details for future opportunities.