Detector Scientist for the ESA-CAS SMILE mission

The Open University; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university seeks a Detector Scientist for the SMILE mission. The role involves operating and maintaining a CCD test system, analyzing performance data, and providing insights for optimal CCD operations. Candidates should hold a PhD in a relevant field and have strong experience with image sensors and programming in MATLAB or similar languages. The position is located in Milton Keynes and requires onsite attendance due to laboratory responsibilities. Flexible working arrangements can be discussed.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related subject.
• Experience in characterization of image sensors and proficiency in data processing.
• Proficiency in coding in MATLAB, C/C++, Java, and/or Python.
• Experience with CCD and/or CMOS imaging sensors is essential.
• Experience with X-ray and optical testing of imaging sensors.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the SMILE CCD electro‑optical test camera system.
• Develop and execute test campaigns based on mission requirements.
• Analyze results and provide insights based on project objectives.
• Investigate optimal CCD operational parameters for performance.
• Document activities and contribute to project documentation.

Skills

Image sensor characterization

MATLAB

C/C++

Java

Python

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Collaboration

Education

PhD in Physics, Engineering or related subject

Tools

Data acquisition software

Vacuum testing equipment

Electrical test equipment

Job description

The position is initially being offered for 18 months, however an extension beyond this date will be considered if external project funding allows nearer the time. This is an exciting opportunity to work on a joint European Space Agency (ESA) and Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) mission that will launch in early 2026. The CEI is part of the SMILE Soft X-ray Imager (SXI) consortium and has been responsible for the testing, modelling and verification of the performance of the mission‑critical detector (CCD) used in the SMILE SXI instrument. As the post‑launch phase of operations approaches, the CEI will continue to lead on detector performance monitoring, in‑orbit optimisation and vital calibration activities which will ultimately maximise the science return of the instrument. We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic individual to join the CEI SMILE project team as a Detector Scientist. The role holder will be engaged in many aspects of the in‑orbit operations in collaboration with the instrument leads at the University of Leicester (UoL), including development, planning and execution of CCD calibration, managing device anomalies, monitoring performance, and optimisation of operations. Alongside analysis of in‑orbit data, the role holder will run and maintain the CEI's CCD ground test system, replicating any device anomalies or performance modifications in the laboratory to better understand and improve in‑flight performance. The successful candidate will be trained by the team as necessary to enable them to work with the CEI SMILE project team on the maintenance and operation of the CCD camera test system, including the associated data acquisition and analysis software. Results from the analysis of in‑orbit data and the ground‑based CCD testing will be used to optimise their performance in the SMILE flight camera and provide experimental data to support in‑orbit operations. The role holder will also attend regular project meetings and conferences, deliver progress reports and interface with team members and external scientists and engineers from the UoL, Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL), UKSA and ESA. In addition, the role holder will have the opportunity to be involved in a variety of other research projects across the CEI, including other space missions and mission concepts for ESA (e.g. Euclid, Theseus, X‑ray Interferometry) and NASA (e.g. the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope).

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the SMILE CCD electro‑optical test camera system.
• Develop, plan and execute electro‑optical test and characterisation campaigns for the SMILE CCD based on live requirements as the mission progresses.
• Analyse the results of the SMILE CCD electro‑optical test, characterisation and previous radiation campaigns and provide insights to those results based on the project requirements.
• Investigate and recommend the optimal CCD operational parameters to ensure the best performance from the CCD during the SMILE mission lifetime.
• Support the analysis of the SMILE CCD radiation damage studies and support development of radiation correction algorithms for the SMILE SXI data processing pipeline.
• Provide experimental test data to the SMILE SXI CCD performance verification team.
• Professionally document role activities and contribute to the CEI SMILE project documentation and data deliverables to the SMILE SXI Consortium and SMILE CCD Working Group.
• Work closely with the CEI SMILE Project Team to ensure the progress of work adheres to any programmatic timescales and report problems and non‑compliances to the Project Team.
• Attend regular Project meetings, workshops and conferences. Report progress verbally and in written form.
• Contribute additional material and inputs as required for publications by the academic team.
• Support external collaborators (e.g. UoL, MSSL, ESA) as directed by the Project Lead.
• Promote knowledge and technology exchange with T‑e2v and other project collaborators and contribute to the wider research activities of the CEI, where required.

This role is contractually aligned to our Milton Keynes office and it is expected that attendance on our Milton Keynes campus will be required on a daily basis as this is a laboratory based position.

We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it's a job share, part time, compressed hours or another working arrangement, please reach out to us to discuss what may work for you and the role.

Qualifications

• A PhD in Physics, Engineering or a closely related subject.
• Good understanding and experience in the characterisation of image sensors or equivalent and proficiency with data collection and data processing. Good understanding of and demonstrable experience in writing bespoke data acquisition and/or data analysis code and/or software algorithms with a focus on interfacing with test systems and automation of test measurements.
• Demonstrable proficiency in coding in any of MATLAB, C/C++, Java and/or Python (or similar) development environments.
• Good problem solving and analytical skills, demonstrated logical and rigorous approach to work.
• A strong commitment to excellence in inclusive learning and teaching for a diverse student population.
• A strong record of research and/or knowledge exchange that is commensurate to the position.
• Demonstrates a proven ability to collaborate effectively within small teams while also excelling in independent roles that require self‑motivation and autonomy.
• Experience with CCD and/or CMOS imaging sensors; operation, test and calibration.
• Experience of working with vacuum and/or electrical test equipment in a laboratory setting.
• Experience with X‑ray and optical testing of imaging sensors.
• Knowledge or some experience in Astronomy/Space Science or applications of high performance imaging sensors.
• Electronics experience in fields related to CCD and CMOS imagers, including analogue and digital systems, plus data acquisition.
• Experience in the formation of simulation software to model physical effects and form predictive models to extrapolate performance.
• Experience in supervising research students.

The Open University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion which is reflected in our mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas. We aim to foster a diverse and inclusive environment so that all in our OU community can reach their potential. We recognise that different people bring different perspectives, ideas, knowledge, and culture, and that this difference brings great strength. We strive to recruit, retain and develop the careers of a diverse pool of students and staff, and particularly encourage applications from all underrepresented groups. We also aspire to make The Open University a supportive workplace for all through our policies, services and staff networks.