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- Tasks: Join a world-class team developing cutting-edge laser technology and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Company: Science and Technology Facilities Council, a leader in laser science and technology.
- Benefits: 30 days leave, flexible hours, pension scheme, and excellent learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in high-energy laser science and work with renowned researchers.
- Qualifications: Undergraduate student with enthusiasm for lasers and optics, strong problem-solving skills.
- Other info: Experience life as a laser scientist in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 24961 - 24961 £ per year.
Organisation: Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
Salary: £24,961 per annum
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (12 months)
Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week)
Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Didcot
Start Date: September 2026
Closing Date: Sunday, 19 October 2025
Interview Date: December 2025 / January 2026
About the Role
Join a world record-setting team at the forefront of laser science. The Centre for Advanced Laser Technology and Applications (CALTA), part of STFC’s Central Laser Facility, is pioneering DiPOLE — a world-leading high-energy laser amplifier technology.
CALTA has developed multiple record-breaking, kilowatt-class, diode-pumped solid-state lasers and is now expanding this technology to support cutting-edge research in particle acceleration, ultra-bright x-ray sources, and nuclear fusion energy.
As a placement student, you’ll actively contribute to these high-profile projects, gaining hands-on experience in laser development, optical setups, system integration, and computational modelling. This is a unique opportunity to experience life as a laser scientist and work alongside world-renowned researchers.
Key Responsibilities
- Take ownership of tasks within high-profile laser development projects
- Support experiments and collaborate with scientists and engineers
- Analyse data and present findings through reports and presentations
- Develop techniques to improve DiPOLE laser performance
- Operate lasers, cryogenic systems, and high-vacuum systems in cleanroom environments
- Learn and apply computer modelling and system control techniques
- Attend local conferences and collaborate across CLF departments
Person Specification
Essential Criteria (assessed via shortlisting and/or interview):
- Currently enrolled on an undergraduate degree and returning to complete your studies after the placement
- Required or have requested to undertake an industrial placement year
- Eligible to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement
- Available to start in summer 2026
- Predicted grades equivalent to a 2:1 or higher
- Enthusiastic and knowledgeable about lasers and optics
- Highly motivated
- Good problem-solving skills
- Works well both independently and in a team
- Good time management skills
- Effective communication skills
- Responsible approach to health and safety
Desirable Criteria:
- Practical laboratory experience
- Experience with coding for data analysis
- Hands-on experience with lasers and optical setups
- Experience with computational modelling or system control software
Employee Benefits
30 days annual leave plus 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days
Flexible working hours
Defined average salary pension scheme
Free parking and accessible public transport links
Excellent learning and development opportunities
Cycle to work scheme
Application Guidance
Please note that we can only accept a maximum of 2 applications per candidate.
Part of our application process involves submitting your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should address your suitability for the opportunity based on how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of applications have been received.
Why Join Us?
We ask some of the biggest questions in the universe, to answer some of the biggest challenges in the world. Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers and business support team explore the unknown across every field you could think of. And they turn what they find into work that changes the world around us.
What could you achieve with the world-leading facilities and experts of one of Europe\’s largest research organisations by your side? Join us and discover what\’s possible!
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High-Energy Laser Scientist Industrial Placement employer: STFC
Contact Detail:
STFC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land High-Energy Laser Scientist Industrial Placement
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past placement students at STFC, and connect with professionals in the laser science field. LinkedIn is your best mate here—don’t be shy to slide into DMs and ask for advice or insights!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research common questions for laser science roles and practice your answers. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable talking about your skills and experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with interviewers, let your enthusiasm for lasers and optics shine through. Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your motivation and knowledge in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at STFC. Get your CV and cover letter polished and hit that submit button!
We think you need these skills to ace High-Energy Laser Scientist Industrial Placement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight any relevant experience, especially in laser technology or optics. We want to see how your background aligns with our high-energy laser projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Address each essential criterion mentioned in the job description. Show us your enthusiasm for lasers and how you can contribute to our team at CALTA.
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your skills! Whether it’s problem-solving, teamwork, or technical know-how, let us know how you’ve used these in practical situations. We love seeing real examples!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at STFC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of lasers and optics. Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in high-energy laser technology, especially anything related to DiPOLE. Being able to discuss recent developments or breakthroughs will show your enthusiasm and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to talk about any practical laboratory experience you have, especially with lasers and optical setups. If you've done any coding for data analysis or have experience with computational modelling, be ready to share specific examples of how you've applied these skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Practice Problem-Solving
Since good problem-solving skills are essential for this role, think of a few challenges you've faced in your studies or projects. Be prepared to explain how you approached these problems, what solutions you implemented, and what the outcomes were. This will demonstrate your analytical thinking and ability to work independently.
✨Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is key, especially when presenting findings. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you might need to do this during the interview. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your ability to convey information clearly and confidently.
