Principal Scientist, Atomic Clocks & Timekeeping

National Physical Laboratory (NPL); Teddington; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in the UK is seeking a Higher Scientist in the Time & Frequency department, bringing proven expertise in scientific data analyses and applied physics. The role offers an opportunity to contribute to national timekeeping and precision timing initiatives.

You will design, implement, and operate atomic clocks, evaluate fountain clock accuracy, and analyse data to steer local and international time scales.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in physics, electronic engineering or related field.
• Experience with practical experiments in atomic, molecular or optical areas.
• Experience with instrumentation or electronics development.
• Software development using Python and LabVIEW.

Responsibilities

• Design, implementation and operation of atomic clocks.
• Systematic evaluation of fountain clock accuracy.
• Apply specialist knowledge to solve challenging technical problems.
• Analyse and prepare data for steering local and international time scales.
• Support activities across the department in other areas of timing.

Skills

Python

LabVIEW

Instrumentation development

Atomic physics experiments

Education

PhD in physics/electronic engineering or related field

Tools

Test & measurement instrumentation

RF/microwave engineering

Job description

National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in the UK is seeking a Higher Scientist in the Time & Frequency department, bringing proven expertise in scientific data analyses and applied physics. The role offers an opportunity to contribute to national timekeeping and precision timing initiatives.

You will design, implement, and operate atomic clocks, evaluate fountain clock accuracy, and analyse data to steer local and international time scales.