Higher Research Scientist - Optoelectronics

About the Role
NPL is seeking an experienced Higher Research Scientist in Optoelectronics. This exciting full time opportunity is within the Quantum Technologies department; specifically working with the Quantum Materials group (Teddington) and comes with a generous salary and benefits package.

Your primary responsibilities will involve:

·nanoscale measurement and characterisation of optoelectronic and plasmonic materials and devices
research and development of new state-of-the-art and bespoke measurement capabilities
developing novel metrology for optoelectronic and plasmonic materials and devices
design and modelling of devices
data analyses using a variety of modern mathematical tools
working with a broad range of stakeholders to meet their measurement challenges
development of test and evaluation capability to support UK industry needs
collect, analyse and disseminate experimental data in the form of reports, scientific papers, conference presentations, etc.
work with colleagues and external collaborators to develop commercial opportunities


At NPL, you will be able to engage in a range of projects that are part of the NPL Quantum Programme; specifically working on projects to help build Quantum Test and Evaluation (QTE) facilities and infrastructure to support innovation across the UK and projects partnering in quantum product develop projects as part of the EPSRC Quantum Technology Hub Programme (supporting the QUANTIC hub). There will be additionally future opportunities to expand your research portfolio.



About You
The role will require a good understanding of functional advanced scanning probe microscopy techniques and their application to nanoscale optoelectronics, photonics and plasmonics. You will be working on characterisation of various relevant material, devices and circuits as well as development and optimization of the measurement systems and the new measurement methodology.

It requires someone who is interested in working closely in the team, with a strong focus on UK industry and other stakeholders. You will also be expected to work alongside and support junior colleagues and PhD students. You will be expected to independently set goals and manage your scientific research projects to deliver on time.

Skills required:

PhD in physics, electronics or similar
Excellence in electronics and electrical measurement techniques with a focus on optoelectronics
Advanced knowledge of and practical experience in scanning probe techniques
Practical experience in quantum materials and metamaterials
Good level of scientific programming skills (e.g. Python, Matlab, LabView)
Advanced experience in data analyses (e.g. Python, Origin, Gwyddeon….)
Familiarity with modern computational techniques (e.g. analysis of large or high-dimensional datasets, machine learning…)
Strong communication and presentation skills, both written and spoken.
A strong record of publications in the relevant fields
Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.
About The Company
NPL and BEIS have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and BAME candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

We’re transforming. As a national laboratory, we’re exploring even more commercial routes to market and that’s presenting us with greater opportunity – for you and us. Our success relies on the diversity and talent of our people, we strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued and supported to excel in their chosen field. This value is at the core of our organisation.

We believe in a culture of fairness by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, background or any other factor irrelevant to a person’s work. At NPL we are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. NPL’s values are at the heart of what we do and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.

As part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we signed up to the Institute of Physics' Project Juno in 2015 as a Juno Supporter. NPL were proud to be awarded Juno Practitioner status in 2018. NPL also joined Stonewall as a Diversity champion in 2015, participating in their annual Workplace Equality Index for the equality of LGBT+ community at NPL. In 2018, NPL became a member of the Business Disability Forum and joined the disability confident scheme as level 1 committed employer.

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.