Optics Group Lead (Quantum Optics)

Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom; on-site

Company

hirify.global commercialises research from the Cavendish Laboratory and develops quantum photonic technology for scalable quantum networking infrastructure.

What you will do

• Lead the Testbed Optics group and set technical direction for advanced classical and quantum optics experiments.
• Own optical system architecture covering free-space and fibre optics, laser systems, interferometry, alignment, stability, noise reduction, and performance optimisation.
• Guide technical decisions, design reviews, experimental planning, risk assessment, and evidence-based optimisation.
• Mentor and develop optics engineers, scientists, and researchers while improving problem-solving capability.
• Establish best practices for optical design, alignment, automation, documentation, data analysis, and knowledge transfer.
• Collaborate with nanofabrication, electronics, mechanical engineering, software, and AMO teams on integrated test plans and optical subsystem delivery.

Requirements

• PhD or equivalent industrial experience in quantum optics, experimental photonics, AMO physics, optical engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated technical leadership in optics, including setting direction, reviewing designs and experiments, and solving complex optical problems.
• Ability to move from optical simulation to laboratory implementation and iterative optimisation, integrating mechanics, electronics, and control software.
• Working knowledge of atomic and quantum physics sufficient to understand system-level requirements.
• Experience mentoring, coaching, or supervising technical team members.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Nice to have

• Experience with adaptive optics, Fourier optics, beam steering, beam-pointing stabilisation, low-noise measurements, laser stabilisation, or Pound-Drever-Hall locking.
• Experience with Zemax, tolerance analysis, Gaussian beam propagation, fibre coupling, or system-level optical simulation.
• Start-up experience, laser safety, optics laboratory development, frequency combs, ARTIQ, ion trapping, neutral atoms, or HOM measurements.

Culture & Benefits

• Inclusive and collaborative multidisciplinary environment focused on quantum technology innovation.
• Flexible working options alongside an on-site role.
• Visa sponsorship available.
• Private medical and dental cover, group disability insurance, enhanced paid family leave, and 28 days of annual leave plus public holidays in England and Wales.
• Paid one-month sabbatical after four years, holiday purchase option, gym membership, cycle scheme, office refreshments, and access to Cambridge Botanical Gardens.