Image Processing Scientist

Thermoteknix Systems Ltd.; Cambridge; In loco; GBP 55.000 - 75.000; Tempo pieno

Descrizione del lavoro

Thermometeknix Systems Ltd. in Cambridge seeks an Image Processing Scientist to research, develop and validate algorithms for thermal imaging cores and related products.

The role collaborates with software, FPGA, electronics and optical engineers to balance image quality with real-time constraints. The candidate applies machine learning where appropriate, conducts rigorous testing and contributes to IP planning and documentation.

Competenze

• A degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Practical experience developing and evaluating digital image processing or related signal processing algorithms.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills, including statistics, linear algebra, numerical methods and spatial or frequency-domain processing.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for scientific computing, data analysis and algorithm prototyping, with experience in C or C++ for implementation or optimisation.
• A sound understanding of imaging fundamentals, including noise, SNR, sampling, resolution and calibration.
• Ability to design experiments, analyse image datasets and compare results against defined performance requirements.
• Structured approach to software development, testing, version control and technical documentation.
• Clear communication skills across engineering disciplines.

Mansioni

• Research and develop image processing algorithms, including noise reduction and contrast enhancement.
• Develop detector correction and calibration methods, including non-uniformity and defective pixel compensation.
• Investigate image registration, fusion, stabilisation and multi-frame processing for product benefits.
• Prototype algorithms using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools and optimize for real-time embedded platforms.
• Support product development and investigate image quality issues with corrective improvements.
• Design laboratory experiments and field evaluations to define meaningful image quality metrics.

Conoscenze

Image processing

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

Statistics

Software development

Documentation

Communication

Formazione

Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering degree

Strumenti

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

FPGA

GPU acceleration

Descrizione del lavoro

Location: Waterbeach, UK Department: Engineering Reports to: Chief Scientist Type: Full-time, Permanent

Company Profile

Therometeknix Systems Ltd, founded in 1982 and based in Cambridge, is a world leader in thermal imaging, night vision, and augmented reality systems. Our award-winning technologies are trusted by defence, security, and industrial customers in over 70 countries. With in-house R&D, cutting-edge innovation, and a global reputation for quality, we design and manufacture solutions that perform in the toughest environments.

Role Overview

Reporting to the Chief Scientist, the Image Processing Scientist will research, develop and validate algorithms for our thermal imaging cores and wider imaging product range. The role will improve image quality and system performance, taking ideas from scientific investigation and proof of concept through to validated product implementation. This is a hands-on scientific role working closely with software, firmware, FPGA, electronics and optical engineering colleagues. You will balance image quality with real-time performance, processing power, memory and power consumption, ensuring algorithms work reliably beyond the laboratory.

Key Responsibilities

Algorithm Research and Development

Research and develop image processing algorithms, including noise reduction, contrast enhancement, dynamic range compression and detail enhancement. Develop detector correction and calibration methods, including non-uniformity correction, defective pixel compensation, temperature drift compensation and shutterless processing. Investigate image registration, thermal and visible image fusion, stabilisation and multi-frame processing where these offer practical product benefits. Review relevant research and emerging techniques, including machine learning where appropriate, and assess their feasibility and value for Thermometex products.

Prototyping, Implementation and Product Support

Prototype algorithms using Python, MATLAB or similar tools, and work with engineering teams to implement and optimise them for real-time embedded platforms. Support product development and the investigation of production or customer image quality issues, recommending and validating corrective improvements.

Testing, Validation and Image Quality Analysis

Design laboratory experiments and field evaluations; define meaningful image quality metrics and assess performance using representative image datasets and operating conditions. Analyse image artefacts and performance limitations, investigating interactions between detectors, optics, electronics and processing software. Quantify algorithm improvements and trade-offs, assess failure cases and validate robustness across changes in scene content, temperature and motion.

Documentation and Research Planning

Maintain clear algorithm specifications, documented code, experimental records and test reports so that results are reproducible and implementation is traceable. Work with the Chief Scientist to define research priorities, assess technical risks and contribute to design reviews and the protection of intellectual property.

Required Skills & Experience

A degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. Practical experience developing and evaluating digital image processing or closely related signal processing algorithms, gained in industry or applied research. Strong mathematical and analytical skills, including statistics, linear algebra, numerical methods and spatial or frequency-domain processing. Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for scientific computing, data analysis and algorithm prototyping, with experience in C or C++ for implementation or optimisation. A sound understanding of imaging fundamentals, including noise, signal-to-noise ratio, sampling, resolution and calibration. The ability to design experiments, analyse image datasets and compare results objectively against defined performance requirements. A structured approach to software development, testing, version control and technical documentation. Clear communication skills and the ability to explain scientific findings and work effectively with colleagues across engineering disciplines.

Desirable Skills & Experience

An MSc or PhD in image processing, computer vision, imaging science or a related field. Experience with thermal or infrared imaging, particularly uncooled microbolometer detectors and their correction and calibration requirements. Experience with real-time embedded image processing, FPGA or DSP implementation, GPU acceleration or optimisation for constrained hardware. Knowledge of image fusion, registration, motion estimation, stabilisation, deconvolution or super-resolution. Experience applying machine learning to imaging problems, including validation and deployment on embedded platforms. Experience transferring research algorithms into commercial products and supporting their verification and releas