Experimental Physicist - Infrared Sensing

ECM Selection; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ECM Selection seeks an experimental physicist to develop infrared detection systems, from sensor selection and optical design through to signal processing and data analysis. You will work on high-impact technologies in a collaborative research environment with other scientists and engineers.

The role involves hands-on system building, troubleshooting, and delivering insights that guide future research directions within the defence and security sector.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics (or equivalent) with a top undergraduate degree in Physics.
• Hands-on experience building and troubleshooting optical and electronic systems using infrared sensors/detectors.
• Strong knowledge of signal processing and data analysis for imaging, processing, and object detection.
• Eligible for UK security clearance (national or previous clearance).

Responsibilities

• Build and operate experimental infrared detection systems from sensor selection to data analysis.
• Address design challenges spanning sensor choice, optical design, and signal processing.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to shape research directions and project outcomes.

Skills

Infrared detectors

Optical systems

Signal processing

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Physics

Tools

Optical modelling

Radiometry

Job description

This high-growth startup in the defence and security sector is seeking an experimental physicist to work on infrared detection systems. You will build and operate their experimental systems working on all aspects of the design from sensor selection and optical design through to signal processing and data analysis. Your work will directly translate to the technologies and products of the company, and your insights will shape their future research direction.

Requirements:

• Strong hands-on skills building and troubleshooting optical and electronic systems using infrared sensors or detectors. Specific experience with thermal imaging or Long-wave / Medium-Wave / Short-Wave IR would be beneficial but is not required.
• Good knowledge of signal processing and data analysis methods in the context of imaging processing and object detection.
• PhD in Physics (or equivalent commercial experience) supported by a top undergraduate degree in Physics (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial or equivalent).
• UK national or previous UK security clearance. This is a defence company, and this role requires applicants to be eligible for UK security clearance.

This is a great opportunity to further your career working on technically challenging problems with real-world impact. You'll be working alongside other scientists and engineers developing cutting-edge technologies in a stimulating research environment.

Keywords: Physics, Experimental, Optics, Imaging Systems, Infrared, Thermal Imaging, LWIR, MWIR, SWIR, Radiometry, Photometry, Signal Processing, Data analysis, Optical Modelling and Simulation, Defence