Optical Systems Associate (Undergraduate / Placement) – 12 Weeks in Cambridge

At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realise health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world-changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

As an Optical Systems Associate here at Illumina in Cambridge, you will join our cutting-edge Optical Systems Group—an R&D team advancing the optical technologies that power Illumina’s world-leading DNA sequencing platforms, including the world’s first super-resolution DNA sequencer. Over your 12-week placement starting in June 2026, you’ll contribute to meaningful technical work, collaborate with experienced scientists and engineers, and gain exposure to interdisciplinary research at the intersection of physics, biology, and engineering. This placement offers real responsibility, professional development, and the opportunity to be part of a team whose innovations directly impact global human health.

Illumina's employee benefits are industry-leading and include flexible time off, private medical insurance, compassion and care time off, leisure travel insurance, pension, employee stock purchasing program, volunteer time off, and much more!

Why You

You are working towards an upper-class degree in a physical science such as Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related discipline. You bring a solid understanding of core optical principles—including ray and wave theory—and ideally some hands-on lab experience in optics or microscopy. You’ll thrive in an interdisciplinary environment, working at the interface of physics and biology, and you enjoy applying problem-solving skills to real experimental challenges. Experience with simple scripting or modelling tools (MATLAB, Python, ImageJ, Labview) is valuable, alongside a collaborative mindset, strong communication skills, enthusiasm for learning, and evidence of academic achievement. Experience with breadboard optical systems or biochemical systems is a bonus but not required.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Technical & Analytical Support

• Apply basic problem-solving approaches to define and resolve routine technical issues
• Perform experimental tasks following established procedures and standard lab practices
• Support optical system design, testing, data collection and analysis

• Assist with research activities that support development of advanced optical technologies
• Execute tasks aligned to project milestones under general guidance
• Document findings, observations, and data clearly for team review

• Work closely with colleagues, project leaders and your supervisor to exchange information and updates
• Build effective working relationships within the Optical Systems Group
• Contribute to team meetings, discussions, and collaborative problem solving

• Seek guidance and training to deepen technical and professional skills
• Learn Illumina tools, processes and methodologies while gaining exposure to R&D workflows
• Demonstrate initiative, curiosity and enthusiasm for contributing to meaningful scientific work

Our Selection Process

After initial screening, you’ll meet with our Talent Acquisition team for an introductory discussion about the placement process. The remaining steps are:

• Recorded Video Interview
• Manager Interview
• Panel Interview – Meet the Team!
• Offer

Applications close Friday 20th February 2026. If you have any questions, you can email: EarlyCareers@illumina.com

We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritised openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information.