Infrared Optics Scientist - Experimental Systems (Cambridge)

Quell; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Quell, a British defence and security AI technology start-up near Cambridge, seeks exceptional Experimental Physicists to design and develop advanced optical systems for monitoring, tracking, and computer vision applications.

This hands‑on, multidisciplinary role spans the full product lifecycle—from concept and design through prototyping, testing, and product release—working on-site in the Cambridge area with engineers, technicians, and product managers to deliver reliable, high‑performance

Qualifications

• Degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field; Master’s/PhD preferred.
• Experience designing optical systems, especially in electro‑optics or machine vision.
• Strong understanding of ray tracing, lens design, and simulation.
• Familiarity with optical test methods and performance validation.
• Knowledge of opto‑mechanics, electronics, image processing, and electro‑optical systems.
• Proficiency with ray‑tracing software (e.g., OpticStudio or similar).
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage tasks independently.
• Comfortable working onsite in the Cambridge area.
• Experience working with laser systems.
• Knowledge of infrared optics (NIR/FIR).
• Experience working in multidisciplinary or agile engineering environments.

Responsibilities

• Designing, modelling, and validating optical systems including lenses, mirrors, mounts, and electro-optic sensors.
• Developing optical solutions for monitoring, tracking, and computer vision applications (VIS, NIR, FIR).
• Using ray-tracing and simulation tools to model and optimise optical components.
• Selecting suitable materials and components for high-performance optical assemblies.
• Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, technicians, and product managers.
• Developing machine‑vision systems to meet demanding technical and reliability requirements.
• Supporting prototype builds, system integration, testing, and validation.
• Managing workstreams independently and ensuring timely delivery of project milestones.

Skills

Optical design

Ray tracing

Machine vision

Image processing

Electro-optics

Agile methods

Education

Master’s/PhD preferred

Tools

OpticStudio

Job description

Quell, a British defence and security AI technology start-up near Cambridge, seeks exceptional Experimental Physicists to design and develop advanced optical systems for monitoring, tracking, and computer vision applications.

This hands‑on, multidisciplinary role spans the full product lifecycle—from concept and design through prototyping, testing, and product release—working on-site in the Cambridge area with engineers, technicians, and product managers to deliver reliable, high‑performance