Optical Communications Researcher

Physics World; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous holidays

Pension provision

Nursery access

Job summary

Fraunhofer CAP in Glasgow, UK, invites applications for an Optical Communications Researcher with expertise in signal processing. The role focuses on applied R&D in photonics, lasers and optical systems, with emphasis on optical communications.

Candidates will work on simulation, coding and experimental tests, collaborate with industrial partners, and help secure funding from industry, Innovate UK and the EU.

Qualifications

• Strong academic or industrial R&D record in optical and/or RF communications, signal processing and photonics.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently to defined timescales.

Responsibilities

• Conduct simulation, coding and experimental tests of optical communication systems.
• Develop new project ideas and help secure funding from industry, Innovate UK and the EU.
• Manage R&D projects and work with industrial partners to deliver applied outcomes.

Skills

Signal processing

Optical communications

RF communications

Education

PhD in photonics/communications

Job description

Job Details

Optical Communications Researcher

We are seeking a researcher with expertise in signal processing for optical communications

Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics, Glasgow, G1 1RD, UK

Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics (CAP) has a vacancy for an exciting, varied and challenging applied research and development position in photonics, lasers and optical systems, in particular for optical communications. We welcome applications from people at all stages of their career and we value our team being diverse in every way.

The first of the highly regarded Fraunhofer Research Centres to be based in the UK, Fraunhofer CAP specialises in undertaking applied R&D in a range of photonics themes. Based at the University of Strathclyde’s Technology and Innovation Centre in Glasgow city centre, Fraunhofer CAP’s main remit is to be a key partner to UK companies in the development of state-of-the‑art products and processes that will enhance their competitiveness; beyond this we are proud that our work brings benefits to health, environment and society. We work across many sectors including telecommunications, space, security, quantum technology, energy, and medical.

We are a bright, engaging, welcoming, helpful team and want like-minded individuals who want to make a difference and really contribute. Your attitude and ambition are as important to us as any of the details below.

Candidates will most likely have a strong academic or industrial R&D record in optical and/or RF communications, signal processing, and photonics, and a demonstrable ability to work collaboratively and independently, to defined timescales, together with a commitment to commercially‑orientated research and development. Candidates will have the ability to successfully manage R&D projects and work closely with industrial partners. They will play a key role in developing new project ideas, and help secure funding from industry, Innovate UK and the EU.

Applicants with experience in optical communications are encouraged to apply, particularly those with expertise in signal processing for wireless optical communication including both off-line and real‑time digital signal processing, channel coding and timing synchronisation. The role will involve simulation, coding, and experimental tests of hardware. Experience with, or enthusiasm for, testing of systems in the field would be advantageous.

We hope for candidates who are sociable and professional, have strong oral and written communication skills and experience of applied R&D in an industrial or academic environment.

Fraunhofer CAP offers a competitive salary and attractive university‑like conditions, including generous holidays, pension provision, maternity leave, nursery access etc. Salary will be commensurate with the levels of appointment.

Application closing date: Wednesday 9th August 2026.