Experimental Physicist - Graduate

A fantastic opportunity for an Experimental Physicist to join a cutting-edge technology company in the Greater Cambridge area, developing advanced infrared detection and sensing systems. Working within a highly collaborative R&D environment, you will play a key role in the design, development and optimisation of experimental infrared detection platforms, helping solve complex real-world technical challenges. This role offers the chance to work across the full experimental pipeline, from optical and sensor design through to signal processing and data analysis, alongside an exceptionally strong multidisciplinary engineering and research team.

Location: Saffron Walden, Essex (due to location of the office you will ideally be able to drive)

Salary: £30,000 - £60,000 per annum depending on experience + benefits

• This company values very top academic backgrounds, so it is looking for a 2.1 degree or above from a leading university in Physics, Applied Physics or a closely related subject, with a minimum of AAA at A Level
• A PhD is highly beneficial, although not essential, depending on commercial or research experience
• Hands‑on experience working with infrared sensors, infrared detectors or imaging systems
• Strong experimental laboratory skills with the ability to build, test and troubleshoot optical and electronic systems
• Experience with signal processing and data analysis within a sensing, imaging or detection environment
• Excellent problem‑solving ability with strong attention to detail
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
• Experience in any of the following would be beneficial: thermal imaging, radiometry, photometry, LWIR/MWIR/SWIR systems, optical modelling, defence technologies, industrial sensing environments
• Due to the nature of some client projects, you must be willing and eligible to obtain DV Security Clearance. This generally requires a long‑term UK residency history (typically 10+ years) and the ability to pass government security vetting. You can join the team and work on other commercial projects while your clearance application is progressing.

• Design, develop and operate experimental infrared detection systems
• Work across the full technical pipeline from sensor selection and optical setup through to data analysis and signal processing
• Build and refine experimental platforms for object detection and characterisation using infrared radiation
• Troubleshoot and optimise optical and electronic laboratory systems
• Collaborate closely with physicists, engineers and researchers across multiple technical disciplines
• Contribute to the development of new detection techniques and experimental methodologies
• Analyse experimental data and communicate findings clearly to the wider team
• Help shape the future direction of ongoing research and development programmes

• The opportunity to work on technically fascinating real‑world detection challenges
• A highly innovative and research‑driven engineering environment
• The chance to work with cutting‑edge infrared sensing and imaging technologies
• Excellent career progression opportunities within a fast‑growing technology company
• Collaborative culture alongside highly academic and technically strong colleagues

If you would like to apply for this unique Experimental Physicist opportunity, please send your CV via the relevant links!

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We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity  do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.