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Location: Reading, United Kingdom
Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees across five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, we operate across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, supporting the security and stability of our nation. We provide cutting-edge technology and deliver social value, helping build a future we can all trust.
We are seeking a Hybrid Algorithm Researcher to develop advanced algorithmic software for future products in Advanced Signal Processing (ASP) and Position, Navigation & Timing (PNT). This is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between classical signal processing and AI-based methods. You will apply hybrid techniques to complex sensing, modelling, tracking, fusion, and estimation challenges in contested electromagnetic environments, turning novel research into practical, high-impact solutions.
This role is ideal for someone who excels in solving difficult technical problems, embedding research innovation into disruptively robust, adaptable, and effective technologies. You will contribute to low-TRL (Technology Readiness Level) research and development, shaping the future of resilient systems.
About the Role
The Hybrid Algorithm Researcher will:
- Lead the development of hybrid algorithmic software using C++, MATLAB, Mathematica, and Python
- Design, adapt, and evaluate algorithms for:
- Sensor modelling
- Signal processing
- Data fusion
- Tracking
- State estimation
- Anomaly detection
- Apply time- and frequency-domain methods, including Fourier analysis, digital sampling, and filter design
- Review and translate recent research into practical ASP/PNT solutions
- Improve robustness of traditional algorithms for real-world conditions
- Implement machine learning where it adds value, particularly for non-linear dynamics and complex systems
- Contribute to proposals, bids, and R&D project delivery
- Mentor junior engineers, fostering technical capability across the team
Responsibilities
- Algorithm Development – Develop hybrid algorithms blending classical and AI-driven methods.
- Modelling & System Analysis – Design test scenarios for sensors in complex, contested environments.
- Research Application – Translate contemporary signal processing and sensor fusion research into industry breakthroughs.
- Collaboration – Partner with interdisciplinary teams, from software engineers to system architects.
- Technical Leadership – Support innovative product development, ensuring ideas progress from labs to operational applications.
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Requirements
Essential Experience & Skills
- Extensive recent research and development experience in low-TRL environments, ideally in ASP, PNT, sensor fusion, or closely related fields (e.g., signals, navigation, or electromagnetics).
- Proven expertise in applying hybrid (classical + ML/black-box) algorithmic approaches to real-world engineering problems.
- Applied experience in:
- Feature extraction
- Data fusion
- Target tracking
- State estimation
- Anomaly detection
- Deep understanding of time- and frequency-domain methods (Fourier transforms, signal filtering, digital sampling).
- Ability to critically assess and implement cutting-edge research techniques.
- Robust coding proficiency in C++, MATLAB, Mathematica, and Python.
- Experience making algorithms resilient to unideal data, noise, and unpredictable physical dynamics.
- Experience driving product-oriented R&D, including technical leadership or delivery roles.
Desirable Qualifications
- Knowledge of emerging technologies in PNT, radar, sonar, or electronic warfare techniques.
- Familiarity with EKF, UKF, Lie group UKF, or physics-informed machine learning (PIML).
- Experience contributing to national bids, grant applications, or industry consortia.
- Exposure to contested electromagnetic environments (e.g., adversarial deception, signal jamming).
- Mentorship or technical leadership experience, including knowledge sharing with junior teams.
About You
This role attracts innovative problem-solvers who:
- Thrives at the interface between pure research and applied engineering.
- Masters mathematical reasoning, program development, and applied experimentation.
- Recognises when to deploy traditional methods, ML, or hybrid solutions.
- Communicates complex ideas clearly and collaborates across disciplines.
- Is drawn to high-impact, operationally relevant challenges.
- Takes ownership of delivering high-quality technical output and fostering an innovative team environment.
Education & Experience
- A BSc (Hons), MSc, or PhD in:
- Electrical/Electronic Engineering
- Signal Processing
- Physics
- Applied Mathematics
- Computer Science (with relevant specialisation)
- 3+ years of recent industry or academic experience in R&D('#V2), spanning theory to practical deployment.
Why Join Us?
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At Thales, you are part of pioneering teams shaping the future of resilient sensing and advanced navigation capabilities. You will:
- Develop cutting-edge technologies to address real-world military, aviation, space, and commercial sensing challenges.
- Contribute to future product innovation, solving complex problems in demanding operational contexts.
- Operate in a collaborative, highly influential environment with industry-leading research resources.
- Shape technical expertise within the team, elevating systems to new capabilities.
Benefits
Thales is committed to the success and wellbeing of our employees. Our benefits include:
- Performance-related bonus
- Flexible work hours – finish work on a Friday half-day (typically by 1:00 PM)
- Generous leave – 28 days annual leave + bank holidays, with option to buy an additional 40 hours/year
- Care and support
- Private health insurance
- Employee Pride Pension Scheme
- Confidential life cover
- Workplace welfare
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and mental wellbeing app access
- Company discounts on major retailers (e.g., Amazon, Apple, furniture)
- Gym membership discounts
- Paid volunteering day
- Security Clearance Requirement
Notably, this role mandates Security Clearance (SC).
- Existing clearance is advantageous but not compulsory; successful applicants agree to undergo clearance assessment before commencing employment.
- Principal requirements include a minimum of 5 years residency in the UK (in some cases, a minimum of 3 years within the last 5 years). See further details gov.uk.
At Thales UK, we are dedicated to diversity, inclusivity, and innovative talent. Our workforce reflects a range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, enriched by extensive programs supporting inclusion, wellbeing, and professional development.
For further reading on our commitment to these principles, visit our [ begyndelse] resources: [Linked Elixir Ports]
Note: If this role does not align with your current motivations, we welcome you to join our talent community – where your profile may be shared with hiring teams for future opportunities.
Find the next step by exploring [proudly hiring Thales Talent Community] today [Join Thales Talent Community]
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