National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
Scientist
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Our world-leading Time & Frequency department is seeking a Higher Scientist with proven expertise in scientific data analyses and applied physics.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
This permanent, hybrid role is an exceptional opportunity to join the global authority in precision timing at a defining moment for UK digital infrastructure.
Backed by a government investment of £180 million in the National Timing Centre (NTC) programme, we are developing a world-first resilient time distribution capability that will provide industry with a robust complement to satellite systems (such as GPS) – which are increasingly vulnerable to disruption from solar storms, jamming and spoofing.
You’ll be developing and operating atomic fountain clocks, which are at the heart of the UK’s national timescale, UTC (NPL). Our caesium fountains are among the most accurate in the world. We also build primary fountain clocks for timing labs across the world and are developing a new compact cold atom clock.
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Key Responsibilities:
- Design, implementation and operation of atomic clocks
- Systematic evaluation of fountain clock accuracy
- Apply specialist knowledge to solve challenging technical problems
- Analyse and prepare data for steering local and international time scales
- Support activities across the department in other areas of timing
ABOUT YOU:
To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills, experience, and qualifications:
Essential:
- PhD (or equivalent) experience in Physics, Electronic Engineering, or related field
- Experience with practical experiments in the atomic, molecular, or optical area
- Instrumentation or electronics development
- Software development (such as Python and Labview)
Desirable:
- Experience with lasers and optics, and the use of test and measurement instrumentation
- Proficiency in electronics, instrumentation development and RF/microwave engineering
- Experience with vacuum and/or cryogenic systems
- Statistical techniques for manipulating time series data
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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. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.
However, to work in this role in The Quantum and Timing business unit, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, 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.
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