Optical Systems Associate (Undergraduate / Placement) – 12 Weeks in Cambridge

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity? At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realise health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients. Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world-changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

As an Optical Systems Associate here at Illumina in Cambridge, you will join our cutting-edge Optical Systems Group—an R&D team advancing the optical technologies that power Illumina’s world-leading DNA sequencing platforms, including the world’s first super-resolution DNA sequencer. Over your 12-week placement starting in June 2026, you’ll contribute to meaningful technical work, collaborate with experienced scientists and engineers, and gain exposure to interdisciplinary research at the intersection of physics, biology, and engineering. This placement offers real responsibility, professional development, and the opportunity to be part of a team whose innovations directly impact global human health.

Illumina's employee benefits are industry-leading and include flexible time off, private medical insurance, compassion and care time off, leisure travel insurance, pension, employee stock purchasing program, volunteer time off, and much more!

Why You

• You are working towards an upper-class degree in a physical science such as Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related discipline.
• You bring a solid understanding of core optical principles—including ray and wave theory—and ideally some hands-on lab experience in optics or microscopy.
• You’ll thrive in an interdisciplinary environment, working at the interface of physics and biology, and you enjoy applying problem-solving skills to real experimental challenges.
• Experience with simple scripting or modelling tools (MATLAB, Python, ImageJ, Labview) is valuable, alongside a collaborative mindset, strong communication skills, enthusiasm for learning, and evidence of academic achievement.
• Experience with breadboard optical systems or biochemical systems is a bonus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Technical & Analytical Support — Apply basic problem-solving approaches to define and resolve routine technical issues; perform experimental tasks following established procedures and standard lab practices; support optical system design, testing, data collection and analysis.
• Project Contribution — Assist with research activities that support development of advanced optical technologies; execute tasks aligned to project milestones under general guidance; document findings, observations, and data clearly for team review.
• Collaboration & Communication — Work closely with colleagues, project leaders and your supervisor to exchange information and updates; build effective working relationships within the Optical Systems Group; contribute to team meetings, discussions, and collaborative problem solving.
• Learning & Development — Seek guidance and training to deepen technical and professional skills; learn Illumina tools, processes and methodologies while gaining exposure to R&D workflows; demonstrate initiative, curiosity and enthusiasm for contributing to meaningful scientific work.

Selection Process

After initial screening, you’ll meet with our Talent Acquisition team for an introductory discussion about the placement process. The remaining steps are recorded video interview, manager interview, panel interview – meet the team! Offer.

Applications close Friday 20th February 2026. If you have any questions, you can email: EarlyCareers@illumina.com.

Our team members are bright, energetic, and dedicated - they are the driving force behind our innovation and impact. To attract the best and brightest, we offer a competitive employee benefits program. We view it as a smart investment in our people, one that recognises the tremendous value they bring to our business every day. At Illumina, we push boundaries. We think beyond the conventional. We dream big. With the energy of so many bright and accomplished people, the opportunities are endless.