Senior Optical Scientist

Oxford Ionics
Oxford
1 week ago
Create job alert

The future is quantum. Oxford Ionics is at the forefront of pioneering quantum computing, delivering world-leading innovation to create the most powerful, accurate, and reliable quantum systems. Quantum computing offers a radically new way of building computers that harnesses the power of quantum physics to outperform conventional supercomputers exponentially. Using our unique trapped-ion technology, we are leading the race to unleash quantum computing's unparalleled potential.

What to expect:

We are building the world���s highest-performing quantum computers, integrating cutting-edge technologies across optics and electronics into chip-scale devices. As a Senior Optical Scientist, you will play a key role in advancing optical imaging techniques to optimise the performance and scalability of our technology.

What you’ll be responsible for:

You will lead the design, development and implementation of high-precision optical imaging systems for trapped-ion quantum computing. Your work will be integral to ensuring high performance optical solutions across our quantum computing platforms. Key responsibilities include:

  • Leading ion imaging:Lead the design, assembly, and testing of imaging systems for quantum hardware, ensuring optimal performance and alignment with system requirements.
  • Architecting optical readout:Evaluate the feasibility of different imaging solutions and drive the decision-making process for the best approach to various chips.
  • Defining system specifications:Collaborate with teams of expert engineers and scientists to establish and refine imaging system specifications.
  • Ensuring seamless system integration:Work closely with quantum hardware engineers to integrate imaging solutions into the overall system architecture, with a particular focus on managing stray scatter
  • Troubleshooting and optimisation:Identify and mitigate aberrations, background noise, and other optical challenges as they arise.
  • Managing external collaborations:Oversee outsourcing of custom optical and opto-mechanical component fabrication and assembly.

Requirements

You will need expertise in optical system design, with a strong background in developing and analysing hybrid optical systems, including geometric, fibre, photonic integrated circuits and meta-optics. Your ability to design, evaluate and refine these systems will be critical to ensuring high performance integration with our quantum hardware.

Hands-on experience with simulation, fabrication and validation will be essential. You should be comfortable using commercial tools for optical modelling, managing the outsourcing and fabrication of custom optical components and implementing rigorous test plans to validate system performance.

Collaboration will be a key part of the role, requiring you to work closely with physicists and engineers to define system requirements and seamlessly integrate optical technologies. If you thrive in a multidisciplinary environment and are passionate about advancing optical science in quantum computing, we’d love to hear from you.

Benefits

Oxford Ionics is leading the way in quantum technology, and we need skilled, innovative individuals like you. We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career with a world-class team, business stock options, generous annual leave, flexible working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, and much more. Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing. 

Oxford Ionics is committed to equal opportunity for all.

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Mechanical Technician / Senior Technician

Senior Optical Engineer

Optical Design Engineer

Optical Design Engineer

Senior Quantity Surveyor/Commercial Contracts Manager

Senior Hardware Design Engineer - Digital/Firmware

Get the latest insights and jobs direct. Sign up for our newsletter.

By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Oxford Instruments Quantum‑Computing Jobs in 2025: Your Complete UK Guide to Building the Hardware of the Quantum Era

Before a superconducting qubit ever executes a gate, it must be cooled to 10 millikelvin, shielded from stray photons and measured with sub‑attoamp precision. For more than 65 years, Oxford Instruments (OI) has supplied the cryostats, magnets and nano‑analysis tools that make cutting‑edge physics possible. Today, its NanoScience division powers quantum labs at Google, IBM, IQM and UK‑RI’s National Quantum Computing Centre. From Proteox dilution refrigerators to Triton X dry systems and Teslatron superconducting magnets, OI hardware is the quiet hero behind nearly every major quantum breakthrough. With a global headcount of ~2,200 and annual revenue topping £450 m, Oxford Instruments continues to scale—especially in quantum‑tech manufacturing, field service and R&D. The careers portal lists roles across engineering, physics, software and customer success. Whether you want to design ultra‑low‑noise amplifiers, debug fridge wiring at 20 mK or model spin‑qubit devices, this guide explains how to land an Oxford Instruments quantum‑computing job in 2025.

World Quantum Day: Why 14 April Matters for Quantum Computing and Your Career

In recent years, quantum computing has emerged from the halls of academia to become one of the most talked-about technology frontiers. As research intensifies and companies compete to create more powerful quantum processors, the field is rapidly expanding—promising a new era of innovation in drug discovery, materials science, secure communications, and beyond. Each year, on 14 April, the global community marks World Quantum Day, a celebration designed to raise public awareness, foster collaboration, and highlight the career possibilities within quantum science and technology. For job seekers, World Quantum Day offers an invaluable opportunity to learn about cutting-edge developments, discover burgeoning roles, and connect with a network of experts who are eager to bring fresh talent into the industry. This blog post will delve into what makes World Quantum Day significant, why quantum computing is such a big deal, and how you can leverage this yearly celebration to advance—or begin—your career in this transformative field. We’ll also explore the UK’s rapidly growing quantum landscape, the main skills employers look for, and the best ways to stay connected through specialised platforms and LinkedIn communities. Whether you’re a seasoned professional ready for a new challenge, a recent graduate aiming to make your mark, or simply fascinated by the potential of quantum technology, this guide will equip you with the insights you need to seize emerging opportunities. Read on to discover how World Quantum Day can be a springboard for your quantum career and why Quantum Computing Jobs is the ideal hub to find your next role.

Quantum Computing vs. Quantum Cryptography vs. Quantum Networking Jobs: Which Path Should You Choose?

Over the past few years, Quantum Computing has rapidly evolved from a theoretical pursuit to a frontier field promising to transform cryptography, chemistry simulations, optimisation challenges, and more. As governments and tech giants alike invest billions in quantum research, the job market for quantum specialists continues to expand. Yet, for many aspiring professionals, the distinctions among Quantum Computing, Quantum Cryptography, and Quantum Networking can be unclear. Which domain should you focus on if you’re browsing Quantum Computing jobs at www.quantumcomputingjobs.co.uk? And what exactly do these roles entail? This article clarifies these three interlinked yet distinct areas. We’ll explore how Quantum Computing harnesses quantum-mechanical phenomena to perform computations that outstrip classical solutions, how Quantum Cryptography secures communication using unbreakable quantum principles, and how Quantum Networking links quantum systems to enable distributed quantum information protocols. You’ll gain insight into shared and divergent skill sets, job titles and salary ranges, real-world applications, and tips on choosing a career path that aligns with your background and interests. Whether you’re a physicist, mathematician, computer scientist, or engineer, there’s plenty of opportunity to make your mark in the quantum revolution.