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Salary: GBP 45,000 - 0 / annual
Opsydia, a laser technology company spun out from the University of Oxford in 2017, is seeking an R&D Scientist to help develop next-generation laser processing platforms. The company specializes in adaptive optics technology that enables the writing of functional features in transparent materials like optical glass and diamond, with applications across datacoms, quantum technologies, and advanced sensing.
Reporting to the R&D Manager, you will play a key role in developing next-generation technologies and products within a multidisciplinary team. This is a broad, hands-on position offering exposure to cutting-edge photonics technologies and collaboration with customers, academic founders, industry partners, and internal engineering teams. You will work from early-stage concept development through validation, customer trials, and product deployment.
Key responsibilities include conducting experimental research and development to support the technology roadmap; developing and evaluating new concepts, processes, and applications; designing, executing, and analyzing experiments with clear presentation of findings; supporting product development from concept through customer deployment; working closely with engineering teams to ensure solutions are practical, scalable, and commercially viable; developing data analysis and modeling tools using Python and/or MATLAB; contributing to customer discussions and technical reviews; supporting intellectual property generation and technical documentation; representing the company professionally with customers and partners; and maintaining awareness of emerging technologies and competitive developments.
The role is full-time with hybrid and flexible working arrangements. The company values hands-on system collaboration time and expects office presence when required. You will have access to comprehensive on-site facilities at Begbroke Science Park including restaurant, coffee shop, free parking, and minibus service to Oxford.
REQUIREMENTS:
Must-have:
- Significant academic experience in a relevant field, preferably photonics, optics, physics, or related discipline
- Experience working with ultrafast laser applications
- Creative and innovative mindset with ability to develop new ideas and apply existing technologies to novel challenges
- Experience characterizing waveguide or optical fiber performance
- Knowledge of photonic interconnect architectures
- Understanding of adaptive optics concepts
- Experience using Python and/or MATLAB for data analysis and technical problem-solving
- Strong communication skills with ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly
- Driven by innovation and motivated to deliver industry-relevant outcomes
Desirable:
- Experience with co-packaged optics packaging and applications
- Industrial or commercial R&D experience
- Experience translating stakeholder or customer requirements into technical solutions
- Understanding of intellectual property generation and development
- Experience interacting with customers at technical level
- Experience representing a company at industry conferences, exhibitions, or international events
Note: The posting explicitly states "If you don't meet all of the criteria above, but are interested in the role, please apply or get in touch to discuss further."
