2026-2027_1_146 - A lab technician contract in non-linear photonics

Euraxess; Palma; Presencial; EUR 30.000 - 42.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

Universitat de les Illes Balears seeks a First Stage Researcher to provide technical support for a state-of-the-art non-linear photonics lab. The role includes maintaining optical components, aligning free-space optical paths and fibre-based setups, and supporting data acquisition and instrumentation.

Master’s degree in Photonics/Optics/Physics is required or closely related; basic programming (Python/MATLAB) and CAD/3D printing skills are desirable.

Formación

• Master's degree or higher in a related field (Photonics/Optics/Physics).
• Experience with optical lab equipment is valuable but not required.
• Solid understanding of laser safety and optical measurement principles.

Responsabilidades

• Provide technical support for a state‑of‑the‑art non‑linear photonics laboratory.
• Maintain and calibrate optical components and measurement systems.
• Assemble and align optical setups, including free‑space paths and fibre interfaces.
• Develop and run automated measurements and data acquisitions.
• Assist in lab equipment maintenance, inventory management and safety protocols.
• Collaborate with researchers on experiments and data analysis.

Conocimientos

Optical alignment

Free-space optics

Optical fibre handling

Fusion splicing

Python

MATLAB

CAD software

3D printing

Electronic measurements

Data acquisition

Laser safety procedures

Educación

Master’s Degree in Photonics/Optics/Physics

Herramientas

CAD software

3D printing

Oscilloscope

Power meters

Descripción del empleo

Organisation/Company Universitat de les Illes Balears Research Field Physics » Optics Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions Master Positions Application Deadline 30 Jul 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Madrid) Country Spain Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 37,5 Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number 2026-2027_1_146 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Main Responsibilities

The successful candidate will provide technical support for a state-of-the-art non-linear photonics laboratory.

Lab Operations and Maintenance

• Clean, inspect and maintain optical components, including mirrors, lenses, beam splitters, microscope objectives, fibre connectors and other precision optics.
• Prepare lab equipment for daily operation, including lasers, electronic instrumentation and optical measurement systems.
• Verify lab instruments are properly calibrated and operated, including optical power meters, optical spectrum analysers, oscilloscopes, RF analysers and similar diagnostic equipment.
• Keep the lab clean, safe and organised.
• Assemble and organise optical tables, secure cables, install optical mounts and perform general lab maintenance.

Optical Fibre and Photonics Support

• Handle optical fibres, including stripping, cleaving, fusion splicing, connector preparation, polishing and inspection.
• Assist in assembling, modifying and maintaining fibre-based experimental setups.
• Assist in aligning and optimising optical systems, cavities, interferometers and free-space beam paths.
• Perform routine optical measurements and diagnostic tests to monitor system performance and identify potential issues.

Mechanical and Electronic Support

• Assemble and modify mechanical fixtures, optical mounts and lab infrastructure.
• Perform basic electronic assemblies, wiring, troubleshooting and electronic component replacements, where required.
• Contribute to designing and fabricating custom lab components using CAD software and additive manufacturing (3D printing).
• Participate in developing vibration‑isolation and temperature‑stabilisation solutions for precision optical experiments.

Instrumentation and Data Acquisition

• Configure laboratory instrumentation for automated measurements.
• Assist in acquiring computer‑controlled data, synchronising lab instruments and basic programming for measurement systems.

Inventory and Lab Management

• Maintain an inventory of lab consumables and spare parts.
• Organise storage areas, label equipment and ensure lab material traceability.
• Coordinate consumable and technical supply purchases where necessary.
• Ensure compliance with laser safety procedures.
• Maintain laser safety equipment, including protective eyewear and warning systems.
• Contribute to implementing lab safety protocols and safety data sheets.

Master’s Degree in Photonics, Optics, Electronics, Telecommunications, Physics, Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Specific Requirements

• Optical alignment and free-space optics.
• Optical fibre handling and fusion splicing.
• Familiarity with laser laboratories and photonics instrumentation.
• Basic programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Octave or similar environments).
• CAD software and 3D printing.
• Basic electronics and laboratory instrumentation skills.
• Scientific data acquisition and instrument automation.
• Knowledge of laser safety procedures.

Language Requirements

A solid command of oral English for communication in research settings will be considered an asset.

Prior Experience

No previous experience is required.

Years of Research Experience: 1 - 4

Planned end date of the tasks subject to the contract: Friday, August 31, 2029

Compensation may be higher where the successful candidate accredits recognised professional experience.

National Social Security Insurance (Public Health Insurance)