At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to conduct exciting materials research and characterisation in electro-optics.
- Company: QinetiQ, a leading tech company focused on defence and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible benefits, coaching, and access to digital learning.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a diverse team while developing your scientific skills.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in STEM; interest in electro-optics is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 33750 - 33750 € per year.
Job Location: Farnborough
Job Type: Permanent/Fulltime
Salary: £33,750
At QinetiQ we are creating a workplace that is inclusive; where our differences are not only embraced but make us stronger. A place where we can connect with each other and benefit from the experiences and thinking from people with varied backgrounds, and at different stages in their careers.
Role Purpose: An exciting opportunity has arisen for a graduate scientist (background in physics, chemistry or materials science) to join the Electro-Optical Physics and Vision Science (EO) team based at QinetiQ Farnborough, Hampshire. The EO team sits within the Stealth and Smart Technologies business area of the company’s UK Defence sector.
Key Accountabilities: The EO team is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated scientists and engineers, which deliver a broad range of capabilities including fundamental materials research, materials characterisation, target imagery and signature analysis. The successful applicant will undertake materials research, characterisation and field trial tasks integral to the delivery of EO and related technology projects.
The job responsibilities will include:
- Working with subject matter experts, and contribute to technical tasks related to EO/infra-red (IR) materials research in line with customer delivery activity
- Delivery and analysis of materials characterisation measurements, (e.g. UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometers or Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers)
- Following training, undertake and evaluate multi-sensor measurements, using camera, sensors, radiometers and other equipment, in the laboratory and during field trials
- Analyse and correlate experimental data to modelled predictions
- You will have laboratory management responsibilities, coordinating with our Facilities and Operations teams, including undertaking equipment calibration and assurance, and helping to maintain the technical capability
- Be accountable for managing your own time and technical delivery progress, while keeping accurate technical records and logs
- You will participate in field trial work which may take place across the UK
- Communication of scientific findings in a clear and unambiguous manner - provide a high level of written and oral communication skills for delivery of presentations and reports appropriate for the audience.
Key Capabilities:
- Basic understanding and experience of spectrometers / spectrophotometers, including; UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometers, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers, Imaging systems e.g. radiometers or spectroradiometers
- Interest in developing existing programming skills ideally in MATLAB
- Evidence of the understanding of experimental design
- Interest in developing aptitude for writing technical reports and/or papers
Experience & Qualifications: This role requires a minimum of Bachelor’s degree qualification in a STEM subject (ideally physics, chemistry, materials science), with additional research-based qualification (e.g. MSci, etc.). Desirable although not essential: any prior understanding of electro-optics and light-matter interactions are a benefit to this role.
How to apply: Please fill in the application and include both a CV and a covering letter.
Our Benefits (the list is not exhaustive):
- On demand learning, access to courses, modules, and lectures via multiple digital learning platforms
- Coaching and Mentoring
- 25 days annual holiday excluding bank holiday
- Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
- Flexible Benefits package
- Employee discount portal
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Employee-led networks
Security: Many of our roles at QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting. Applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment, subject to approval. Many roles are also subject to restrictions on access to information, which means factors such as nationality, previous nationalities held and the country in which you were born may impact your role. Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum.
Recruitment Process: We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments.
QinetiQ is a place where you’ll be able to make a real difference. You’ll be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity, rewards integrity and merit, and where you’ll be empowered to fulfil your potential. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, come and be part of our team!
The closing date for applicants is 5th June 2026.
Electro-Optics Scientist Graduate in Farnborough employer: QinetiQ Security & Defense Contractors
At QinetiQ, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive and dynamic work environment in Farnborough, where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. As a graduate Electro-Optics Scientist, you will benefit from extensive learning opportunities, mentorship, and a supportive culture that encourages personal and professional growth, all while contributing to cutting-edge projects in the UK Defence sector.
Contact Detail:
QinetiQ Security & Defense Contractors Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Electro-Optics Scientist Graduate in Farnborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at QinetiQ on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Electro-Optics Scientist Graduate role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Make sure you can discuss spectrometers and materials characterisation confidently. We want to see your passion for the field, so be ready to share your insights!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Whether it’s during an interview or in a presentation, being able to convey your scientific findings clearly is key.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the company culture right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Electro-Optics Scientist Graduate in Farnborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your relevant skills and experiences, especially in physics, chemistry, or materials science. Tailor it to showcase how you fit into the Electro-Optics Scientist role.
Nail Your Cover Letter:This is your chance to shine! Use your cover letter to express your passion for electro-optics and how your background aligns with the job. Be sure to mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to the key accountabilities.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since clear communication is key in this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use concise language and structure your documents well. This will demonstrate your ability to convey complex scientific ideas effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at QinetiQ Security & Defense Contractors
✨Know Your Spectrometers
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometers and FTIR spectrometers. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in your studies or projects, as this will show your practical understanding and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Prepare to talk about any research projects you've been involved in, especially those related to materials science or electro-optics. Highlight your experimental design process and how you analysed data to draw conclusions. This will demonstrate your capability to contribute to the EO team's work.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex scientific concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present findings or discuss technical details, so being able to communicate effectively is key. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your skills.
✨Be Ready for Field Trials
Since the role involves field trial work, express your willingness and excitement to participate in hands-on activities. Share any previous experiences you have with fieldwork or lab management, and emphasise your ability to manage time and technical delivery effectively.
