Research Specialist (Optics / Quantum)

Location: Hybrid role based in Bristol or Ipswich, United Kingdom, with attendance in the office or laboratory 3 days per week.

Company

hirify.global is a UK communications group operating brands including BT, EE, Openreach and Plusnet, serving consumers, businesses, public-sector organisations and communications providers.

What you will do

• Build optical and quantum proofs of concept and technical demonstrations.
• Configure, connect and integrate laboratory and vendor equipment for experiments and field trials.
• Verify the performance of optical networks and quantum systems in laboratory environments.
• Install and provision equipment for trials in operational environments, including network exchanges.
• Collaborate with BT stakeholders, external partners, universities, vendors and other organisations across the optics and quantum ecosystem.
• Translate emerging research into capabilities for future networks, customers and products.

Requirements

• Practical laboratory experience setting up and operating equipment, working with optical fibre and building experimental systems.
• Motivation to apply academic research in industry through building, testing and demonstrating practical technology.
• Experience or knowledge in optics, optical networks or quantum systems.
• Experience building optical systems with components such as optical fibre, lasers and receivers.
• Experience configuring IP or Ethernet networks and associated vendor equipment.
• Experience deploying or building networks in a university, technology vendor, network operator or similar environment.

Nice to have

• A PhD focused on optics, optical networks or quantum.
• Commercial or industrial research experience.

Culture & Benefits

• Work alongside researchers on optical and quantum experiments and practical demonstrations.
• Collaborate with leading companies, universities and specialists worldwide.
• Receive a 10% on-target annual bonus.
• Access pension contributions of 5% from the employee and 10% from BT, plus holiday purchase options.
• Receive private GP access, paid carers leave, enhanced parental leave and discounted BT and EE products.
• Choose additional benefits including healthcare, dental cover and gym memberships.