Research Scientist in Satellite Quantum Communications

Toshiba EMEA; Milton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in the UK is seeking a Research Scientist to advance satellite quantum communication technologies. The role involves designing and developing protocols for satellite and drone-based QKD systems, requiring a PhD in a related field and several years of experience in optical or quantum communications. You will lead the integration and testing of systems, mentor early-career staff, and collaborate with international teams. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in quantum technology.

Qualifications

• PhD required in relevant engineering or science discipline.
• Several years of hands-on experience in relevant communication systems.
• Ability to manage complex optical/electronic setups.

Responsibilities

• Develop new QKD system architectures and protocols.
• Design optical systems for satellite and drone applications.
• Integrate and test diverse subsystems for communication links.
• Conduct field trials and deploy systems in real environments.

Skills

PhD in Physics

Hands-on experience in optical, quantum, or free-space communication systems

Proven ability to build and characterise complex optical/electronic experimental setups

Experience with system design and troubleshooting

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Self-starter attitude

Education

PhD in related field

Tools

Python

Git

Job description

Research Scientist in Satellite Quantum Communications

Cambridge Research Laboratory – Toshiba Europe Ltd

Outline

Toshiba Europe Ltd has been at the forefront of quantum technology research, particularly quantum communications and quantum key distribution (QKD), for over two decades. Our teams have delivered world‑leading breakthroughs such as record‑high quantum communication bit rates, seamless classical–quantum network integration, and novel long‑distance QKD protocols. Toshiba QKD systems are now commercially deployed in telecom networks worldwide.

We invite applications for a Research Scientist to join our expanding programme in space and free‑space quantum communications, with a focus on satellite and drone‑based QKD systems. The successful candidate will take a leading role in developing next‑generation free‑space quantum communication technologies, integrating optics, electronics, software, system engineering, and aerospace‑grade design methodologies. Research outcomes will contribute directly to cutting‑edge demonstrators and mission‑class systems, and will be published in leading journals and conferences.

Responsibilities

Quantum Communication System Development

• Devise new architectures, protocols, and prototype systems for satellite, drone, and ground‑based QKD.
• Build and characterise free‑space optical systems including telescopes, beam expanders, modulated laser sources, detectors, tracking sensors, and timing subsystems.
• Design and implement software for system control, automation, synchronisation, simulation, and data analysis.
• Interface with high‑speed RF electronics, FPGA systems, and digital processing pipelines.

System Architecture & Requirements

• Define overall architectures for drone–ground–satellite QKD links, ensuring coherent optical, mechanical, electronic, and software integration.
• Translate high‑level mission goals into engineering requirements, performance budgets, and subsystem specifications.
• Develop and maintain interface control documentation for optical, electrical, mechanical, and software subsystems.

Integration, Verification & Testing

• Plan and execute end‑to‑end test campaigns, from benchtop optical characterisation to outdoor field trials.
• Conduct environmental and reliability assessments: thermal design/analysis, vibration isolation approaches, redundancy strategies, and failure‑mode assessment.
• Perform calibration and metrology: optical alignment, polarisation extinction ratio checks, timing calibration, detector characterisation.

Deployment & Field Trials

• Plan and support field deployments, including drone flight tests, ground‑station alignment procedures, and free‑space link commissioning.
• Define operational procedures for link acquisition, tracking, link maintenance, data capture, and safety protocols.

Collaboration & Dissemination

• Mentor PhD students and early‑career staff.
• Analyse experimental data and communicate findings through scientific publications, internal reviews, and international conferences.
• Collaborate with industrial partners and academic groups across the UK, Europe, and Japan.

Skills & Experience – Essential

PhD in Physics, Electronic Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field.

Several years of hands‑on experience in optical, quantum, or free‑space communication systems.

Proven ability to build and characterise complex optical/electronic experimental setups.

Experience with system design, integration, troubleshooting, and data analysis.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Self‑starter attitude, with enthusiasm for learning new skills and working in a multidisciplinary team.

Skills & Experience – Desirable

Knowledge of QKD, quantum optics, or quantum communications.

Experience with electronics design (PCB development, FPGA programming, high‑speed electronics).

Experience with free‑space optical communications, satellite payloads, optical tracking, or precision opto‑mechanical systems.

Competence in Python or similar languages; experience with version control (e.g., Git).

Familiarity with aerospace standards, environmental testing, or mission engineering.