Optics Engineer

Closing date for applications: Wednesday 20th May 2026 at 5pm (UK time).

Join Nu Quantum - Shaping the Future of Technology. Nu Quantum is at the forefront of quantum computing and advanced technology, driven by innovation, diversity, and a commitment to excellence. We're creating an environment where brilliant minds from all backgrounds collaborate to push the boundaries of what's possible. Founded to commercialise research generated over the last decade at the Cavendish Laboratory, Nu Quantum is on a mission to shape the future of quantum information systems. We integrate novel quantum photonic technology to form an efficient and scalable quantum networking infrastructure in partnership with world-leading companies and academic groups.

About the role: We are seeking a talented and motivated Optics Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will design, develop, optimise, and automate advanced optical systems supporting the development of Nu Quantum's qubit-photon interface (QPI). Primary responsibilities lie in one of the following areas:

• Design, build and automate optical setups for the assembly and characterisation of microcavities.
• Develop advanced laser and imaging systems, and optical system design and support for AMO experiments.

You will work in a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment alongside experts in nanofabrication, electronics, mechanical engineering, and software.

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Location: Cambridge, UK

Visa Sponsorship: available

Responsibilities – What You'll Be Doing:

• Contribute to the design and execution of advanced optical experiments and system builds.
• Design and implement system automation to improve efficiency, repeatability, and control in optical experiments.
• Align and optimise free-space and fibre-based optical setups to achieve precise performance targets.
• Obtain experimental results, perform detailed data analysis, and draw clear, actionable conclusions.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and lessons learned to ensure reproducibility.
• Communicate complex technical information clearly through high-quality written reports and presentations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with nanofabrication, electronics, mechanical, and software engineering teams to develop and execute integrated test and development plans.

Requirements – What we're looking for:

• Essential MSc or PhD in Physics, Optical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proven experience in optical system design and simulations.
• Hands-on experience with building bespoke benchtop optics setups, including free-space and fibre-based optics.
• Hands-on experience of laser diodes (e.g. FP lasers, DFB lasers, DBR lasers, etc.) and optical detectors such as silicon (Si) or indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) photodiodes.
• Strong data management and record-keeping skills to support reproducible and collaborative workflows.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical lab problems.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written), with experience presenting to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proactive, natural problem-solver with a ‘can do' attitude and a collaborative mindset.

Desirable (nice to have but not required):

• Experience with complex free-space and fibre-optic optical systems (e.g., diffractive imaging systems, microscopy, OCT, holography, high speed optical communication systems).
• Experience with optical tweezers.
• Hands-on experience with external cavity diode lasers.
• Experience in designing or integrating system automation and control in laboratory experiments using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.
• Hands-on experience with optical modulators (EOMs, AOMs).
• Code version control and collaboration through a platform such as git.
• Knowledge of cavity QED.
• Experience with high-speed photodetection and signal acquisition hardware, e.g. understanding trade-offs between gain and bandwidth for fast signals.
• Experience with optical simulation software packages such as Lumerical, Zemax or Code V.
• Experience with multiphysics simulation packages such as Comsol.
• Fibre splicing.
• Experience with light-atom interaction at the quantum level.

Benefits – Why work with us?

At Nu Quantum, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where people of all identities, orientations, backgrounds, and experiences are empowered. We value diverse perspectives as a source of creativity and innovation and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented and marginalised communities. Joining Nu Quantum means joining a team where you can grow professionally and be part of an inspiring mission to shape the future of technology.

Benefits include:

• Flexible working options.
• Group DIS cover (4 x salary).
• 1 month paid Sabbatical after 4 years of service.
• Generous Employee Referral Scheme.
• Private Medical and Dental Cover (With Vitality and Bupa).
• On-site gym membership.
• Cycle scheme.
• Refreshments, including fruit and beverages, are available in the office.
• 28 days annual leave, including a 3-day company shutdown period + UK Public Holidays.
• Option to purchase up to 5 days holiday per year.
• Enhanced paid family leave policies.
• Access to the Cambridge Botanical Gardens.