Job Title: Electro-Optics Scientist Graduate
Job Location: Farnborough
Job Type: Permanent/Fulltime
Salary: £33,750
ID: 20030
At QinetiQ we are creating a workplace that is inclusive; where our differences are not only embraced but make us stronger. A place where we can connect with each other and benefit from the experiences and thinking from people with varied backgrounds, and at different stages in their careers.
Role Purpose:
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a graduate scientist (background in physics, chemistry or materials science) to join the Electro-Optical Physics and Vision Science (EO) team based at QinetiQ Farnborough, Hampshire. The EO team sits within the Stealth and Smart Technologies business area of the company’s UK Defence sector.
Key Accountabilities:
The EO team is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated scientists and engineers, which deliver a broad range of capabilities including fundamental materials research, materials characterisation, target imagery and signature analysis. The successful applicant will undertake materials research, characterisation and field trial tasks integral to the delivery of EO and related technology projects.
The job responsibilities will include:
1. Working with subject matter experts, and contribute to technical tasks related to EO/infra-red (IR) materials research in line with customer delivery activity
2. Delivery and analysis of materials characterisation measurements, (e.g. UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometers or Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers)
3. Following training, undertake and evaluate multi-sensor measurements, using camera, sensors, radiometers and other equipment, in the laboratory and during field trials
4. Analyse and correlate experimental data to modelled predictions
5. You will have laboratory management responsibilities, coordinating with our Facilities and Operations teams, including undertaking equipment calibration and assurance, and helping to maintain the technical capability
6. Be accountable for managing your own time and technical delivery progress, while keeping accurate technical records and logs
7. You will participate in field trial work which may take place across the UK
8. Communication of scientific findings in a clear and unambiguous manner - provide a high level of written and oral communication skills for delivery of presentations and reports appropriate for the audience.
Key Capabilities:
Basic understanding and experience of spectrometers / spectrophotometers, including;
9. UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometers
10. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers
11. Imaging systems e.g. radiometers or spectroradiometers
12. Interest in developing existing programming skills ideally in MATLAB
13. Evidence of the understanding of experimental design
14. Interest in developing aptitude for writing technical reports and/or papers
Experience & Qualifications:
This role requires a minimum of Bachelor’s degree qualification in a STEM subject (ideally physics, chemistry, materials science), with additional research-based qualification (e.g. MSci, etc.)
Desirable although not essential: any prior understanding of electro-optics and light-matter interactions are a benefit to this role
How to apply:
Please fill in the application and include both a CV and a covering letter.
Our Benefits (the list is not exhaustive):
15. On demand learning, access to courses, modules, and lectures via multiple digital learning platforms
16. Coaching and Mentoring
17. 25 days annual holiday excluding bank holiday
18. Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
19. Flexible Benefits package
20. Employee discount portal
21. Employee Assistance Programme
22. Employee-led networks
Security:
Many of our roles at QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting. Applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment, subject to approval. Many roles are also subject to restrictions on access to information, which means factors such as nationality, previous nationalities held and the country in which you were born may impact your role.
Further guidance regarding clearances can be found: UKSV National Security Vetting Solution: guidance for applicants - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Please also be aware that under immigration rules, our Early Careers roles do not meet the legal threshold for candidates who are resident in the UK on student visas.
Recruitment Process:
We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments.
QinetiQ is a place where you’ll be able to make a real difference. You’ll be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity, rewards integrity and merit, and where you’ll be empowered to fulfil your potential. We welcome candidates from all background, come and be part of our team!
To find out more about Life at QinetiQ, please see the link:
The closing date for applicants is 5th June 2026
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