Laser Scientist – Fusion Laser Driver Development - UPLiFT

UKRI; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to pioneering laser-driven inertial fusion energy technology. As a Laser Scientist, you will be at the forefront of developing high-energy laser drivers, contributing to a £10M research initiative. You'll work within a dynamic team, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities to innovate and solve complex challenges in laser and optical science. This role offers a unique opportunity to impact the future of energy technology while enjoying a supportive and inclusive work environment. If you're passionate about science and technology, this position is perfect for you!

Benefits

Flexible Working Options

Pension Scheme

30 Days Annual Leave

Competitive Rewards Package

Qualifications

• Degree in relevant scientific field with knowledge of laser systems.
• Experience with lasers or optical systems is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop laser driver designs and build prototypes.
• Conduct tests and collaborate with external partners.

Skills

Laser and Optical Science

Solid State Laser Systems

Nonlinear Optics

Modeling and Simulation

Data Analysis

Teamwork

Problem-Solving

Matlab

LabView

Education

Degree in Physics or Related Field

Tools

Matlab

LabView

Job description

Job Title: Laser Scientist – Fusion Laser Driver Development - UPLiFT

Salary: £31,298 Band C S2

Hours: Full-Time (flexible working options available)

Contract Type: 1 Year Fixed Term Contract (potential extension to 3 Years)

Location: STFC- Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Oxfordshire

Additional Information: Employees should refer to the Recruitment Policy regarding temporary role adjustments. Please liaise with your Line Manager and HR if offered a position to clarify implications of any move.

Join us at the Central Laser Facility (CLF) to contribute to the UK Programme of Laser Inertial Fusion Technology for Energy (UPLiFT), a £10M research initiative funded by UK government. The project aims to develop science and technologies for laser-driven inertial fusion energy (IFE). As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will work on developing an efficient, high-energy laser driver capable of delivering >10% efficiency at 10 pulses/sec, based on diode-pumped solid state laser technology.

CLF offers state-of-the-art laser systems, experimental stations, and a collaborative environment with around 200 staff committed to scientific excellence and inclusivity. We foster a welcoming and supportive culture.

About The Role

You will support the UPLiFT project by developing laser driver designs, building prototypes, and conducting tests. Your work will involve optical design, modeling, testing, and collaboration with external partners to develop scalable solutions for future IFE power plants.

About You

You should possess a degree or equivalent experience in a relevant scientific field, with knowledge of laser and optical science, solid state laser systems, and nonlinear optics. Strong teamwork, modeling, and simulation skills are essential, along with good interpersonal skills and physical capability to work in a laser laboratory.

Person Specification

• Degree in physics or related field (S)
• Experience with lasers or optical systems (S&I)
• Knowledge of optics and laser physics (S&I)
• Data analysis skills (I)
• Teamwork and problem-solving abilities (I)
• Competence with Matlab and/or LabView (I)
• Physical ability to work in a laser lab (I)

Our Benefits

We offer a competitive rewards package including flexible working, pension scheme, 30 days annual leave plus holidays, and more. Visit www.clf.stfc.ac.uk or contact Paul Mason for details.

About The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

STFC is a leading research organization addressing fundamental questions about the universe, fostering innovation, and supporting international projects across science and engineering. Learn more at https://stfc.ukri.org/ and https://www.stfccareers.co.uk/.

About UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

UKRI unites research councils and agencies to support world-class research and innovation, with benefits including excellent benefits, holiday entitlement, and discounts. More at www.ukri.org.

Additional Information

This role requires security vetting. We are committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion, and guarantee interviews for disabled applicants meeting minimum criteria. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

How to Apply

Submit a CV and cover letter via our online portal, clearly demonstrating how you meet the criteria and your motivation. Include the reference number in your documents. Incomplete applications may not be considered. Applications are assessed based on submitted materials only.