Senior Laser Scientist

Senior Laser Scientist – Fusion Laser Driver Development – UPLiFT

Science and Technology Facilities Council

Salary: £51,242 – £56,366 per annum (dependent on skills and experience)

Hours: Full-Time

Contract Type: 3 years fixed-term contract

Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE

We are seeking to join the Centre for Advanced Laser Technologies and Applications (CALTA) team to support the UPLiFT project, developing new laser driver designs, building prototype systems, and conducting experimental test campaigns. You will work with laser scientists and engineers, engage with external experts, and have opportunities to present your research at international conferences and publish in high-profile peer-reviewed journals.

Overview

UPLiFT is a 4-year, £10M UK government–funded research programme to develop key science and technologies for laser-driven inertial fusion energy (IFE). The role aims to deliver an efficient, high-energy laser driver concept and a practical demonstration of key component technologies for a prototype laser driver capable of delivering >10% efficiency with 10 pulses per second.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to the optical design of a new laser driver concept, perform optical modelling of subsystems, and define prototype specifications.
• Develop modelling activities (laser energetics and thermal management models) to predict system performance and aid design down-selection.
• Define and conduct proof-of-concept tests to de-risk key component technologies.
• Engage with external suppliers and contractors to assess capabilities and foster collaboration with external facilities.
• Collaborate with engineers to design key mechanical equipment for prototype testing.
• Lead and manage a small team to build and test prototype components in the laser laboratory.
• Contribute to the strategy and design definitions for a laser driver scalable to future IFE plant requirements in collaboration with the wider UPLiFT team.

Who we are looking for

You should have significant knowledge of laser science and nonlinear optics, with experience in solid-state laser design and pulsed laser amplification.Experience in modelling or simulations and applying that knowledge to laser system design is essential. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team are important.

Qualifications / Experience

• PhD in physics or a closely related subject (or equivalent experience) [S]
• Post-Doctoral research experience (or equivalent) with a record of independent research [S&I]
• Significant knowledge of laser physics and optics [S&I]
• Recent practical experience in operation, development, and modelling of laser systems and optical characterisation [S&I]
• Track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals [S]
• Competence with MATLAB and/or LabVIEW, and ZEMAX/OpticStudio or other optical design software [S&I]
• Knowledge of safety related issues and procedures for operating lasers [S&I]
• Experience in successful management of technical projects and/or people [S&I]

Additional information

• The role involves working in a laser laboratory.
• For more information about the role, please visit www.clf.stfc.ac.uk or contact paul.mason@stfc.ac.uk

Note: UK Research and Innovation recognises and values employees and aims to provide a pay and rewards package with flexible working, a defined benefit pension, 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holiday/privilege days, and other benefits. Sponsorship information: if you require sponsorship to work in the UK, costs may be payable to the Home Office with possible reimbursement later; see gov.uk guidance or contact recruitment@ukri.org.