National Physical Laboratory

NPL is seeking an experienced Higher Scientist based in Teddington to plan and deliver technical activities to advance our research. This full-time role offers a generous salary and benefits package. As a Higher Scientist, you will acquire new knowledge to solve problems and identify commercial opportunities arising from your work, contributing to new product and service development. At NPL, we foster a collaborative and respectful working environment dedicated to continuous improvement. Your primary responsibilities will include: Sharing your learnings and mentoring less experienced colleagues Developing partnerships to enhance our capabilities Promoting our work externally as an ambassador Providing technical support for bids and projects You will join our Quantum Photonics team within the Quantum Technologies Department, focusing on research to improve understanding of photonic quantum information hardware, such as single-photon sources, detectors, quantum key distribution, and quantum communication systems. The team is expanding to construct a quantum network test bed, involving multiple teams and external collaborators. The main focus of this position involves developing and implementing picosecond-level time synchronization across the quantum network test bed nodes, ensuring the integrity of quantum states transported via fiber links. This includes evaluating commercial solutions like White Rabbit and ELSTAB, and contributing to hardware and software development for network performance monitoring. You will also contribute to developing metrology for physical parameters of photonic quantum components and collaborate with the quantum industry to address measurement challenges, impacting the development of quantum technologies. The role offers opportunities for career progression and publication in high-impact journals, as well as presenting at international conferences. Key responsibilities (depending on experience): Designing experimental methods to characterize photonic devices and systems Building experimental setups and custom instrumentation Developing control and data analysis software Analyzing experimental data analytically and numerically Collaborating with partners and preparing reports Publishing research findings and presenting at conferences Leading innovative research with potential commercial applications Supporting or leading bids to secure funding Developing partnerships and representing NPL externally About You: Essential: Experimental experience with photonic systems (fiber, free-space, or on-chip) PhD or equivalent in experimental physics, engineering, or hardware development Post-doctoral experience in a relevant field Ability to work across multiple teams and manage priorities Strong problem-solving skills and solution development Inquisitive mindset and collaborative approach Excellent communication skills Advantageous: Experience working with industry, academia, or NMIs Experience with time-transfer and synchronization techniques Knowledge of White Rabbit and ELSTAB technologies Experience with quantum photonic technologies and networks Programming skills in LabVIEW, MATLAB, or Python Electronics design experience Track record in scientific research and technical innovation Experience in technical collaboration, bid writing, and team leadership We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Security clearance (BPSS) is required to work at NPL. Applications are reviewed continuously, and the closing date may be moved forward. We encourage early applications.

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. At NPL, we touch ordinary lives in extraordinary ways and you could too. NPL is looking for a senior expert with demonstrable world-leading experience in Underwater Acoustics to join us as a Principal Scientist. Research drives our business. You will develop and lead your team, setting strategic directions and ensuring your vision is delivered. You'll challenge established methodologies to expand our capabilities, drive collaboration internally and externally, and promote our work through your network. As your work progresses, you will train and develop your team to grow with us. The responsibilities of the Principal Scientist within Underwater Acoustics include: Leading, designing, and executing experimental and theoretical research, including developing novel measurement tools and methods for underwater acoustic applications. Creating a vision for underwater acoustics in the Ultrasound & Underwater Acoustics Group, addressing UK government challenges. Playing a leading role on national and international standards committees, representing NPL and the UK. Engaging with UK and overseas organizations to maintain NPL's position as a leading NMI in underwater acoustics. Responding to commercial and grant-based ITTs and obtaining research funding aligned with NPL's strategic priorities. Consulting with stakeholders to improve methods and develop tools for underwater acoustic applications, ensuring traceability. Collaborating across NPL departments and with external partners to develop new research and service opportunities. Managing science portfolios, including developing proposals, managing projects, and fostering partnerships. Establishing collaborations with industry partners to create innovative research programs and transfer successes to industry. The position is based at NPL's Teddington site, involving occasional travel for customer site visits, measurements, and representing NPL at meetings and events. To be successful, you will be an internationally respected expert in underwater acoustics, with proven experience in: Leading and conducting international research with publications in recognized journals. Developing and contributing to underwater acoustics standards. Developing technical solutions funded by civil and defense sectors. Presenting results through reports, manuscripts, and presentations. Developing and executing business strategies for technical initiatives. Managing large-scale research programs. Leading and motivating scientific staff. You should be an inspirational leader with scientific and commercial awareness, thrive in collaborative environments, and possess the ability to obtain SC clearance. Applications will be reviewed continuously, and the closing date may be brought forward. We encourage interested applicants to apply promptly.

NPL is the UK's National Metrology Institute. Our role is to research, create and deliver the measurement infrastructure which underpins the UK's prosperity and quality of life across many fields of industry. The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is seeking an experienced Senior Scientist to join our Ultrasound and Underwater Acoustics Group in Teddington. NPL is world-leading in this area and has a suite of dedicated facilities, including laboratory tanks, an acoustics pressure vessel and an open-water site. You will join NPL at an exciting time of growth where there will be a great opportunity to maximise impact from high-quality science. As a Senior Scientist at NPL, your role will involve: Leading cutting-edge research, recognising aspects that could be commercially viable. Developing improved acoustic modelling techniques to augment measurements made utilising NPL's specialised laboratory facilities. Developing improved data analysis techniques for experimental data derived from ocean acoustic measurements. Contributing to collaborative research projects with NPL's partners, both nationally and internationally. Leading the technical work of NPL projects, including preparation of project proposals and supervising and guiding the work of more junior staff. The opportunity to contribute to scientific output through journal publications and conferences, and to represent the UK on technical standards committees. Representing NPL to promote our work and raise our profile. Crafting winning bids, in line with NPL's growth strategy. Working inclusively and collaboratively to develop partnership opportunities. Presenting NPL's work at conferences and in scientific papers. As a Senior Scientist, you will play a key role in delivering NPL's scientific work, contributing to research and development projects, requiring a careful, methodical approach and attention to detail. What you will bring to the role: Proven experience in a similar Scientist role, well-established in the field with a significant scientific profile. Demonstrable scientific understanding of ocean acoustics and marine acoustic technology. Graduate or post-graduate qualification in Physics or Acoustics or a related discipline. Able to communicate clearly, both verbally and in technical reports and proposals. Experience in supporting and developing junior members of the team. In-depth understanding of the underlying physical principles, and the ability to problem solve and propose appropriate technical solutions. Experience in developing software for finite element modelling, acoustic propagation and data analysis. A demonstrated capability for mathematical modelling. Ability to interact and network with collaborators and future customers. Ability to work to deadlines within a team. Have an awareness of the industry and business. Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical. We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. To work in this role at NPL, you will need to have an SC clearance, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.

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. At NPL, we touch ordinary lives in extraordinary ways and you could too. NPL is looking for a senior expert with demonstrable world leading experience in Underwater Acoustics to join us as a Principal Scientist. Research is what drives our business. And it will be up to you to develop and lead your team, setting your technical area's strategic direction and ensuring your vision is delivered. When it comes to solutions, you don't just rely on established methodologies. To get the results you seek, you're willing to challenge what we do and how we do it, so that we're expanding our capability. In doing so, you'll be able to drive collaboration - internally and externally - to enhance activity and optimise commercial opportunities. Your passion for your work means you already have a great network through which you'll promote our work, representing NPL and speaking wherever you're needed. As your work progresses, and new learnings established, you'll make sure you bring the team with you - training and developing them so that they grow with us. Responsibilities The responsibilities of the Principal Scientist within Underwater Acoustics will include: Leading, designing and executing experimental and theoretical research including development of novel measurement tools and methods in support of current and future underwater acoustic applications. Creating a vision for the underwater acoustics in the Ultrasound & Underwater Acoustics Group, addressing UK government challenges for the underwater acoustics area. Playing a leading role on national and international standards committees, representing NPL and the UK at international meetings. Leading and fostering the team's engagement with UK and overseas organisations (other National Metrology Institutes, UK Government, Academia and Commercial Customers) to maintain NPL position as a leading NMI in underwater acoustics. Responding to commercial and grant-based ITTs and obtaining research funding for this area aligned with NPL strategic priorities. Consulting and working in partnership with internal and external stakeholders to determine how NPL can provide support to improve the quality of methods and tools used for underwater acoustic applications, and develop tools and methods for future applications that require traceability. Working in partnership with other NPL departments, and collaborating across NPL to develop new opportunities and to develop new research and service opportunities including establishment of mutually beneficial collaborations and nurturing of existing partnerships. Planning and management of science portfolio, including development of project proposals, management of projects to achieve results in accordance with milestone schedules and within budget, and development of partnerships with other internal and external partners. Working with industry partners to establish formal collaborative agreements to create innovative, high-impact research programs, and transfer their successes directly to industry. The position will be based at NPL's Teddington site, involving occasional travel, such as customer site visits, in situ measurements work and representing NPL at national and international meetings, conferences and events. Qualifications To be successful in the role, you will be sought out and internationally respected by the underwater acoustics community for your expertise and have: Proven experience winning, leading and conducting international research work with published articles in internationally recognised scientific journals. Experience leading national and international standards development, or a track record contributing to underwater acoustics standards. Track record developing and implementing technical solutions in underwater acoustics funded by the civil and/or defence sectors. Track record presenting results in the form of reports, manuscripts, oral presentations. Experience developing and executing business strategy to commercial and technical initiatives. Experience managing full life cycle of large scale research programs. Demonstrable experience leading and motivating scientific and technical staff. To lead and inspire a scientific team, not only will you need to be a leading expert in your field, you'll also need experience of motivating a team. Inspirational, influential and a relationship builder, you have the scientific and commercial awareness to help NPL achieve our ambitions. Beyond that, we're looking for someone who'll thrive in an environment like ours. At NPL we learn from each other, respect each other and work together to do better. For ourselves and for our customers. And whilst we're always looking to stretch beyond what we know, we don't make things more complicated when there's no need. We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. To work in this role at NPL, you will need to have an SC clearance, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance. Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.

NPL's Intellectual Property underpins much of NPL's work and supports the real-world impact created through adoption of NPL technologies. We have a proud record of commercialisation - our IP has supported the growth of UK companies as well as the commercialisation of innovative NPL solutions through routes such as spin-outs, licensing and NPL's products and services. A few recent examples include the development of and launch of DAART, a digital metrology platform for radiotherapy audits, a new miniature atomic clock, developed by NPL and now being commercialised with a commercial party, and Thermology Health, a spinout organisation from NPL, who have developed the world's most accurate thermal imaging platform that enables early diagnostics based on ultra-accurate temperature readings and AI analytics. This is an exciting opportunity for an IP specialist to expand their experience and knowledge, working as part a team of IP and technology transfer specialists in the Partnerships Department with a strong focus on collaborating with our science and legal teams, external patent attorneys and external partners on the identification, protection and exploitation of IP. Key Responsibilities include: Reviewing invention disclosures and advising on best protection strategies Conducting due diligence and unencumbering IP so it can be commercialised Working alongside Product Managers to ensure the IP strategy aligns with and strengthens the overall business plan for each innovation Structuring and negotiating IP deals and IP terms in third party agreements Advising on IP risks and mitigations Managing a broad and technically diverse IP portfolio (activities include leading on patent and trademark prosecution and managing associated budgets, and post-licensing management) Raising IP awareness in the organisation by delivering training and being the first point of contact for any IP queries The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills along with a curious mind and attention to detail. Experience required: Strong technical background, qualified at degree level in Science or Engineering (preferably at postgraduate level) Hands-on experience in technology transfer and/or managing a science-based IP portfolio in research organisations or academia. A demonstrated interest in innovation and commercialisation of research Proven strong communication skills to engage with a wide range of stakeholders (including scientists, senior management, prospective investors and licensees) Demonstrated ability to manage a wide range of IP activities both independently and as part of a dynamic team and prioritise according to the overall business needs Our work sets us apart. Our differences bring us together. Be part of something amazing. We're hiring across different levels and welcome applications from professionals at different levels of experience and backgrounds. We are now working in a hybrid way, with a mix of remote and office working. We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in. Applications will be reviewed, and interviews will be conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical. The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality 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, black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 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 see our Diversity & Inclusion page. We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we're always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.

UKTL Introduction Led by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, the UK Telecoms Lab (UKTL), announced in October 2022, will give the UK the cutting-edge technology to keep our telecommunications networks safe, accelerate the roll-out of 5G, and grow our brilliant telecoms sector by bringing in new entrants to diversify the supply chain market. Successful candidates will have a unique experience working on or supporting the latest ground-breaking cyber security and networking technologies on a national and international scale. This opportunity will allow those involved to have first-hand exposure to the latest technologies via the research and development that we are undertaking to secure our telecommunications networks, in order to keep the UK the safest place to live and do business online. As a trusted and independent national capability, the UKTL will interact at the intersection of standards bodies, such as 3GPP, the National Cyber Security Centre and the wider UK intelligence community, academia, Ofcom, as well as Communications Service Providers and telecommunication equipment vendors. You will lead the UKTL 's strategic direction, performance, investment planning, strategic customer and international relationships. You will also own the UKTL's security risks and be accountable for the governance of its security management. This role will be key for developing initial strategic relationships in the early days of the UKTL. The ideal candidate will have excellent existing industry relationships with both operators and vendors. Develop an internationally respected telecommunication testing organisation that delivers against the UKTL objectives including long-term sustainability, independence and excellence. Setting strategic direction, including the security evaluation and research services the UKTL will provide and the customers it will engage with. You will set the narrative in any reports that are written about the capability and how messaging will be managed. Manage and influence stakeholders as a respected leader , including senior representatives across Government and industry . Manage e xternal public relations - including public speaking at events, which is anticipa ted to be required extensively during the early stages of the capability to build awareness and reputation. Liaise with the leadership of key partners to ensure successful delivery of joint outcomes within a sustainable business model, both within HMG and in industry. Represent the UKTL at the UKTL governance board (Chaired by DCMS, and including representatives from NCSC and Ofcom), and advise on the forward looking shape and outlook of the Work Programme and capabilities of the facility.

UKTL Introduction Led by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, the UK Telecoms Lab (UKTL), announced in October 2022, will give the UK the cutting-edge technology to keep our telecommunications networks safe, accelerate the roll-out of 5G, and grow our brilliant telecoms sector by bringing in new entrants to diversify the supply chain market. Successful candidates will have a unique experience working on or supporting the latest ground-breaking cyber security and networking technologies on a national and international scale. This opportunity will allow those involved to have first-hand exposure to the latest technologies via the research and development that we are undertaking to secure our telecommunications networks, in order to keep the UK the safest place to live and do business online. As a trusted and independent national capability, the UKTL will interact at the intersection of standards bodies, such as 3GPP, the National Cyber Security Centre and the wider UK intelligence community, academia, Ofcom, as well as Communications Service Providers and telecommunication equipment vendors. As the UKTL Chief Technical Officer (CTO) you will establish and lead the technical direction of a flag-ship new capability in the UK government's investment into the Telecoms sector.

Internally your job title will be Group Leader 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. We are looking for an Operations Manager to be based in Huddersfield to take care of all aspects of the operational management for the team. You will be directly responsible for a team of ten scientists and engineers, ensuring delivery to time cost and quality, health and safety and the well-being of the team. There are also members of other NPL teams that work out of Huddersfield and you will ensure their well-being whilst on site. Along the way, you will manage expectations and take remedial action as needed. Not only will you facilitate the work the research teams conduct internally, you will also build strong relationships with our customers, so that their needs are met. The science team delivers bespoke services to industry and scientific programmes in conjunction with external collaborators and other NPL groups. The successful candidate will contribute to the strategic development of the group and will be expected to engage with relevant regional stakeholders. This is an exciting time for NPL across West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester areas as we work with our partners in the Advanced Machinery and Productivity Institute (AMPI). This role will be primarily based in Huddersfield, but there will be an expectation that the successful candidate will spend a couple of days a month in Teddington, West London to integrate into our leadership community. We are now working in a hybrid way, with a mix of remote and office working. We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible.

The Gas Metrology Group within the Atmospheric Environmental Science Department carries out world-leading measurement science research maintaining the UKs National Standards for gas composition and disseminating traceability that underpins a broad range measurements to a wide variety of stakeholders in industry and academia. A major focus is on providing the metrology needed to address major environmental challenges such as climate change and air quality. We are looking for a Senior Research Scientist to join NPL's Gas Metrology Group to provide technical leadership within the Environmental Gases Team and to complement the existing senior science team in managing the groups delivery and output of scientific excellence.We are now working in a hybrid way, with a mix of remote and office working. We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.You will have a PhD in a relevant science (e.g., Chemistry, Physics) or engineering field with extensive experience (at least 5 years) working within a laboratory environment and will be comfortable delivering scientific work to a very high standard whilst supporting junior members of the team to do the same.You will be required to provide technical leadership within the Environmental gases science team of NPL's Gas Metrology Group. This role will involve a balance of planning, conducting and supervising experimental work in the laboratory with data analysis, scientific paper, report and proposal writing, project management, business development, strategic planning and customer facing activities.For this Senior Research Scientist position the following are required to successfully deliver the role:Extensive knowledge of analytical chemistry and gas analysis techniques such as gas chromatography and/or spectroscopyExperience of mass spectrometry would be preferableDemonstratable experience of planning and leading a team to deliver research activitiesExamples of networking, developing and maintaining external collaboration leading to new commercial work or funded projects A track record of peer-reviewed papers and conference presentationsYou must be able to work independently and as part of a team to achieve goals to advance innovation in the laboratories. Great communication skills and an enthusiasm for science are essential and you will be challenged to think for yourself.You can expect opportunities to solve real-world science and engineering problems in the laboratory. Beyond that, we're looking for someone who'll thrive in an environment like ours. These are lab-based positions, at our laboratories in Teddington and you will be expected to work mainly on-site.Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.NPL and BEIS have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applicationsfrom candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexualorientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applicationsfrom women, disabled and BAME candidates in particular are encouraged. Alldisabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy theminimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under theDisability Confident Scheme.We're transforming. As a national laboratory, we're exploring even more commercial routes to market and that's presenting us with greater opportunity - for you and us. Our success relies on the diversity and talent of our people, we strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued and supported to excel in their chosen field. This value is at the core of our organisation.We believe in a culture of fairness by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, background or any other factor irrelevant to a person's work. At NPL we are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. NPL's values are at the heart of what we do and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.As part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we signed up to the Institute of Physics' Project Juno in 2015 as a Juno Supporter. NPL were proud to be awarded Juno Practitioner status in 2018. NPL also joined Stonewall as a Diversity champion in 2015, participating in their annual Workplace Equality Index for the equality of LGBT+ community at NPL. In 2018, NPL became a member of the Business Disability Forum and joined the disability confident scheme as level 1 committed employer.To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we're always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.