At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop and operate cutting-edge atomic clocks for precision timing.
- Company: National Physical Laboratory, a leader in measurement science and technology.
- Benefits: Flexible working, social activities, and a supportive work-life balance.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on UK digital infrastructure with innovative time distribution technology.
- Qualifications: PhD in physics or related field, with experience in atomic experiments and software development.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
Our world-leading Time & Frequency department is seeking a Higher Scientist with proven expertise in scientific data analyses and applied physics. This is an exceptional opportunity to join the global authority in precision timing at a defining moment for UK digital infrastructure. Backed by a government investment of £180 million in the National Timing Centre (NTC) programme, we are developing a world-first resilient time distribution capability that will provide industry with a robust complement to satellite systems (such as GPS) – which are increasingly vulnerable to disruption from solar storms, jamming and spoofing. You’ll be developing and operating atomic fountain clocks, which are at the heart of the UK’s national timescale, UTC (NPL). Our caesium fountains are among the most accurate in the world. We also build primary fountain clocks for timing labs across the world and are developing a new compact cold atom clock.
Key Responsibilities
- You will enjoy contributing to the improvement of performance and reliability of caesium fountain clocks, and to develop novel devices.
- Design, implementation and operation of atomic clocks.
- Systematic evaluation of fountain clock accuracy.
- Apply specialist knowledge to solve challenging technical problems.
- Analyse and prepare data for steering local and international time scales.
- Support activities across the department in other areas of timing.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills, experience, and qualifications:
Essential
- PhD (or equivalent) experience in physics, electronic engineering or a related field.
- Previous experience with practical experiments in the atomic, molecular, or optical area.
- Experience of instrumentation or electronics development.
- Software development (such as Python and Labview).
Desirable
- Experience with lasers and optics, and the use of test and measurement instrumentation.
- Proficiency in electronics, instrumentation development and RF/microwave engineering.
- Experience with vacuum and/or cryogenic systems.
- Statistical techniques for manipulating time series data.
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. However, to work in this role in The Quantum and Timing business unit, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition.
Higher Scientist - Time and Frequency in Teddington employer: National Physical Laboratory
The National Physical Laboratory in Teddington is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work culture that fosters innovation and professional growth. With a focus on cutting-edge research in power systems, employees benefit from opportunities to develop their skills in a collaborative environment, while enjoying the advantages of working in a prestigious institution dedicated to advancing measurement methods for electricity grid monitoring.
Contact Details:
National Physical Laboratory Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Scientist - Time and Frequency in Teddington
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Higher Scientist - Time and Frequency in Teddington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at National Physical Laboratory. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at National Physical Laboratory. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at National Physical Laboratory. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
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✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at National Physical Laboratory to drive research projects forward.
