At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead optical development for innovative medical imaging systems and diagnostics.
- Company: Pictura Bio, a cutting-edge MedTech start-up from the University of Oxford.
- Benefits: Company equity, cycle to work scheme, and professional development support.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic start-up environment.
- Why this job: Join a pioneering team and shape the future of medical diagnostics.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in optical engineering with experience in fluorescence microscopy.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Pictura Bio is an innovative MedTech start‑up developing a next‑generation point‑of‑care diagnostic platform. Founded in 2021 as a University of Oxford spin‑out, we are advancing technology that enables rapid pathogen identification for earlier diagnosis and treatment of patients. Our platform integrates fluorescence microscopy, electronics, mechanics, fluidics, software, and biological assays into a highly integrated system. Alongside our long‑term objective of developing a regulatory‑compliant medical diagnostic device, we aim to develop and supply advanced imaging systems and diagnostic assays for external customers.
Overview of the Role
You will own the optical development of our instrument platforms, working closely with the engineering and assay teams to translate scientific requirements into robust imaging solutions. Reporting to the Head of Engineering, this role suits an experienced engineer with a strong background in fluorescence microscopy and biological imaging systems who thrives in a multidisciplinary start‑up environment. This is fundamentally an engineering role focused on practical, deliverable systems. We are looking for someone who understands how to develop manufacturable optical systems using commercially available and bespoke components, and who can make sound engineering decisions balancing performance, complexity, cost, and reliability.
You will act as the optical subject matter expert across:
- Fluorescence microscopy and imaging systems
- Illumination and detection architectures
- Optical component selection
- Optical testing and characterisation
You will ensure that:
- Optical requirements are clearly defined and informed by system and assay demands.
- Optical performance is appropriately characterised and verified.
- Optical designs remain practical, manufacturable, and scalable.
- Technical decisions are clearly documented and communicated across disciplines.
Key Responsibilities
Optical Design & Development
- Own the development and evolution of the platform optical architecture.
- Translate assay and system requirements into optical specifications.
- Specify illumination, filtering, and imaging solutions.
- Perform optical tolerance analysis and tolerance stack‑up.
- Select and evaluate optical components and suppliers.
- Contribute to future platform developments and technology assessments.
Systems Integration
- Work closely with assay, mechanical, electronics, and software disciplines.
- Assess thermal and mechanical impacts on optical performance.
- Support integration of optical subsystems into complete instruments.
- Diagnose and resolve cross‑disciplinary performance issues.
- Communicate complex concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
Verification & Characterisation
- Develop optical test methods, characterisation procedures, performance metrics, and acceptance criteria.
- Support verification activities and root‑cause investigations.
- Ensure optical performance supports overall system requirements.
Quality & Regulatory
- Contribute optical design records to the Design History File.
- Support development activities within an ISO 13485‑aligned environment.
- Participate in risk management activities and design reviews.
- Support future regulatory submissions across key international markets.
About You
- 5+ years' experience in optical engineering or imaging system development, with a minimum 2:1 degree in a related subject or extensive industry exposure.
- Experience working with fluorescence microscopy‑based instrumentation.
- Strong understanding of optics principles, imaging system performance, and optical component selection.
- Experience with laser systems and other narrow‑band illumination sources.
- Proficiency with optical design tools (e.g. Zemax, Code V, OpticStudio).
- Experience with optical testing, characterisation, and troubleshooting.
- An appreciation for manufacturability, reliability, and cost‑driven design.
- Strong communication and problem‑solving skills.
- The ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary engineering team.
Highly Desirable
- Experience in medical devices, diagnostics, biotechnology, or life sciences.
- Experience working within an ISO 13485 environment.
- Familiarity with imaging‑based analysis systems.
- Experience supporting manufacture, calibration, or design transfer activities.
- Experience in a start‑up or rapidly growing technology company.
Benefits
- Company equity
- Cycle to work scheme
- Professional institute subscriptions
- CPD investment and support
This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing MedTech company at a pivotal stage in its development. You will play a key role in shaping both our commercial imaging systems and the future evolution of a novel diagnostic platform, with the opportunity to grow into a technical leadership position as the company expands.
Optical Engineer in Oxford employer: PicturaBio
Pictura Bio is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and innovative work environment where you can contribute to groundbreaking medical technology. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and the chance to take on leadership roles as the company expands. Our collaborative culture encourages multidisciplinary teamwork, ensuring that every team member's expertise is valued in the pursuit of advancing healthcare solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Engineer in Oxford
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
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Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
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Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like PicturaBio!
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Engineer in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show PicturaBio that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at PicturaBio.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that PicturaBio does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at PicturaBio
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at PicturaBio. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into PicturaBio's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at PicturaBio. This shows your passion for the industry!
