Job Description

At NPL, we are looking for a university or PhD graduate with a passion for experimental physics to join our Optical Frequency Metrology Group within our Time and Frequency Department.

you will play a vital part in our expanding portfolio of projects involving optical frequency combs, which sit at the heart of our programme to develop a new generation of optical atomic clocks in anticipation of a redefinition of the SI second.

Femtosecond combs allow clocks operating at different frequencies and in different locations to be compared at accuracies commensurate with their performance. Using our established facilities, you will participate in pan-European clock comparisons designed to check the international consistency of optical clocks - experiments which exploit our position at a node of a unique dark fibre network infrastructure. In pushing the boundaries of measurement precision, such comparisons enable us to perform tests of fundamental physical theories with unprecedented sensitivity while simultaneously contributing to the international time scale.

Our expectations

In this role, you will be able to:

• Work collaboratively as part of our diverse team and with partner organisations to help us achieve our goals.

• Use logical thought processes to design and follow a scientific work plan. Write technical documentation and scientific publications, both collaboratively and independently

• Use scientific computing to analyse complex data sets from frequency comparison experiments

• Use your practical skills to make precision measurements using optical frequency combs

• Develop laboratory instrumentation and control systems for laser frequency stabilization

• Develop hardware control and data analysis scripts, ideally using Python and/or Matlab

• Design and implement optical experimental setups, whilst maintaining a safe working environment

• Work within established Health and Safety and Quality systems to safely produce accurate and repeatable results

About You

We believe that diversity and unique perspectives are key to the success of our science projects. For this role, we particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in STEM disciplines, in particular women, disabled, black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates.

To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills, experience, and qualifications:

• You have a degree or equivalent in Physics, Electronic Engineering, or a related field (a PhD, or equivalent experience, is desirable for a Higher Scientist)

• You have experience of working in a team to achieve a common goal, but are capable of working independently

• You are able to communicate clearly and collaborate with colleagues in your team

• You enjoy problem solving and can demonstrate critical thinking, assessing the pros and cons of your approach

• You are able to demonstrate the ability to complete work which requires a high level of attention to detail

• You understand the value of providing good customer service to both internal and external customers, wanting to meet and exceed customer expectations through delivering high quality work with proactive communications

• You are committed to personal development and taking on learning opportunities to get the most from the role

If it sounds like this is the role for you, we look forward to hearing from you. In return for your expertise, inclusive approach, and commitment, we will provide an attractive salary + benefits package and the chance to join a passionate and welcoming team.

About Us

Put simply, we set the standards by which everything is measured. In doing so, the National Physical Laboratory is helping to combat issues on a global scale such as climate change, curing diseases and the development of cutting-edge communications technology.

The National Physical Laboratory(NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity andquality of life in the UK.

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates inparticular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the EqualityAct 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we\'re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please seeour page.

National Physical Laboratory