Senior Laser Scientist- Fusion Laser Driver Development - UPLiFT

UKRI; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 51,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization at the forefront of laser technology as a Senior Laser Scientist. This role offers the chance to work on groundbreaking projects in laser-driven inertial fusion energy, contributing to a £10M research program. You'll be part of a multidisciplinary team, developing innovative laser driver designs and collaborating with top scientists. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in a collaborative environment that values diversity and inclusion. If you're passionate about advancing laser science and technology, we want to hear from you!

Benefits

Flexible Working

Pension

Annual Leave

Competitive Pay

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of laser science and nonlinear optics.
• Experience with solid state lasers and modelling laser systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop laser driver designs and build prototypes.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to optimize laser systems.

Skills

Laser Science

Nonlinear Optics

Solid State Lasers

Modelling and Simulation

Teamwork

Problem-Solving

Education

PhD in Physics or Related Field

Postdoctoral Experience

Tools

Optical Design Software

Matlab

LabView

Job description

Job Title:

Senior Laser Scientist– Fusion Laser Driver Development - UPLiFT

Salary:

£51,242 Band E S2

Hours:

Full-Time (We understand the importance of work-life balance, and are happy to discuss the possibility of flexible working with applicants)

Contract Type:

1 Year Fixed Term Contract (With the intent to extend to 3)

Location:

STFC- Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Oxfordshire

Additional Information:

Employees applying for any opportunity which may mean being away from your substantive role for a temporary period, please refer to the Recruitment Policy for further information. If you are made an offer, liaise with your Line Manager and HR to understand the implications of any move.

Join us to make an impact working with top facilities and scientists. An exciting opportunity exists within the Central Laser Facility (CLF) at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, to work on the UK Programme of Laser Inertial Fusion Technology for Energy (UPLiFT). This 4-year, £10M research programme aims to develop science and technologies for laser-driven inertial fusion energy (IFE).

The successful candidate will be part of a multidisciplinary team working on laser development, focusing on creating an efficient, high-energy laser driver concept suitable for future power plants, based on diode-pumped solid state laser technology.

About the Role:

As part of CALTA, you will support the UPLiFT project by developing laser driver designs, building prototypes, and conducting tests. You will collaborate with scientists, engineers, and external partners to optimize laser systems for fusion energy applications.

About You:

You should have strong knowledge of laser science and nonlinear optics, experience with solid state lasers, and skills in modelling and simulation of laser systems.

Person Specification:

• A PhD in physics or related field, or equivalent experience (S)
• Postdoctoral experience or equivalent (S)
• Knowledge of optics and laser physics (S&I)
• Experience with laser systems operation and characterization (S&I)
• Modelling experience (I)
• Publication record (S)
• Teamwork and problem-solving skills (I)
• Proficiency with optical design software and Matlab/LabView (I)
• Physical ability to work in a laser lab (I)

Our Benefits:

We offer competitive pay, flexible working, pension, annual leave, and other benefits. For details, visit our website.

About STFC:

STFC is a leading European research organization exploring fundamental questions and technological advances. We foster a collaborative, innovative environment and encourage diversity and inclusion. For more, visit STFC.

About UKRI:

UK Research and Innovation supports world-class research and innovation across disciplines, building a strong UK economy. More at UKRI.

Application Process:

Apply online with a CV and cover letter, including the reference number. Ensure your application addresses the criteria and explains your motivation. We value fairness, inclusion, and transparency in our hiring process.