Photonics Characterisation Engineer

The role We are looking for a Photonic Characterisation Engineer to join our Photonics team and play a key role in the experimental characterisation of advanced integrated photonic devices. This is a highly hands-on position where you will design and run experiments, operate optical test equipment, analyse measurement data and help turn experimental results into clear engineering insight. Your work will support teams across photonic design, manufacturing and system testing, helping ensure technical decisions are grounded in high-quality, repeatable data. You will work across both die-level and wafer-level characterisation, combining practical laboratory work with Python-based data analysis and experimental automation. Over time, you will take increasing ownership of characterisation activities, from defining test approaches through to delivering results and communicating conclusions to stakeholders. This role is particularly well suited to someone who enjoys being in the lab, working through difficult experimental problems and moving comfortably between optics, software and data. What you'll be doing Design and execute experiments to characterise integrated photonic devices and structures Operate optical and photonic laboratory equipment across a range of measurement setups Carry out die-level and wafer-level testing Analyse experimental data using Python and relevant scientific computing tools Develop scripts and workflows to automate data collection and analysis Translate experimental requirements into practical, repeatable test methodologies Identify measurement issues, investigate unexpected results and troubleshoot experimental setups Validate data quality before results are used by wider engineering teams Produce clear technical reports, analysis and summaries from experimental work Collaborate closely with photonic design, manufacturing and system testing teams Support the development and improvement of laboratory processes, test methods and automation Take ownership of characterisation tasks and provide realistic timelines for delivery As you develop in the role, you will be expected to work increasingly independently, building new test methods where required and taking experiments from initial planning through execution, analysis and communication of results. What we're looking for An MSc, PhD or equivalent practical experience in Physics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a closely related discipline A strong understanding of optics and photonics fundamentals Hands-on experience designing and running experiments Experience working in an optics, photonics or similarly technical laboratory environment Experience analysing real-world experimental data using Python Familiarity with scientific Python libraries such as NumPy, SciPy or pandas A practical understanding of experimental uncertainty, noisy data and measurement quality Strong fault-finding and troubleshooting skills The ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary engineering team Strong attention to detail and critical thinking Clear written and verbal communication skills The ability to present technical results clearly to different audiences You should be comfortable spending a significant proportion of your time working physically in the laboratory. This is not primarily a theoretical or simulation-focused position. Even better if you have Experience working with photonic wafer-level test systems or probe stations Experience with integrated photonic devices and their characterisation Experience automating experimental setups or measurement equipment using Python Familiarity with optical alignment, calibration and measurement techniques Experience with free-space optics Knowledge of photonic integrated circuit fabrication or semiconductor processes Experience developing reusable experimental or data-analysis tools Previous experience in an R&D or product dev