Lead Short Pulse Laser Scientist

At DiPOLE Systems, we are developing laser systems for real-world deployment in advanced manufacturing, energy and defence. The challenge is not just achieving exceptional performance, but delivering hardware with the robustness and repeatability those applications demand.

About DiPOLE Systems
We’re a venture-backed deep-tech company developing high-performance laser systems that combine high power with high repetition rate operation. Built on core IP developed at STFC’s Central Laser Facility, our work focuses on turning breakthrough science into products that can be manufactured, deployed and supported in the field. DiPOLE systems are already in use at major international research facilities, and we’re now building the next generation for wider commercial deployment.

Why now
We’ve recently closed our seed round and are scaling the team to develop new product lines based on technology already demonstrated in the lab. Our focus now is on reducing size and complexity, improving robustness, and translating advanced laser designs into products that can be built, deployed and supported at scale.

The role
We’re hiring a Lead Short Pulse Laser Scientist to provide hands-on technical leadership in the development of next-generation short pulse laser systems, including femtosecond and picosecond architectures based on DiPOLE amplifier technology. This is a senior technical role with real ownership: you’ll lead key design decisions, guide system architecture and trade-offs, and work closely with optical, mechanical and systems engineers to turn advanced concepts into practical products. You’ll remain close to the detail, contribute directly to technical work, and help strengthen our science capability as the team grows. The role reports to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

What success looks like
In this role, you’ll help define and deliver new short pulse laser systems from early concept through to prototype validation and product-ready design. You’ll improve performance, robustness and manufacturability, helping us turn laboratory-grade systems into reliable, repeatable products suitable for deployment in real-world environments.

What you’ll do

• Lead design of advanced short pulse laser systems from concept through to build, test, manufacture and deployment
• Develop and optimise short pulse chirped pulse amplification (CPA) architectures, including mode-locked oscillators, amplifiers (solid-state & OPA), pulse shaping, stretchers and compressors
• Lead modelling of broadband pulse amplification approaches to support system design
• Work with the Company’s leadership team to define technical strategy and roadmap for ultrafast laser projects
• Own critical design decisions and trade-offs across performance, reliability, cost and manufacturability
• Work day-to-day with scientists, optical and mechanical engineers, and suppliers to define requirements

• Mentor and support junior team members, providing technical leadership

What you’ll bring

Essential

• PhD in Physics, Optical Engineering, Photonics or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience
• Strong background in short pulse laser science, ultrafast optics and nonlinear optics
• Expertise in modelling and developing broadband amplification systems, including CPA and/or OPCPA
• Hands-on experience with short pulse laser systems, diagnostics, and pulse characterisation
• Strong experimental skills in the design, build, testing and troubleshooting of complex optical systems
• Track record of leading technically demanding research or product development work, and of working effectively across science and engineering teams
• Strong problem-solving skills with track record of leading complex research or product development projects
• Good understanding of laser safety standards and best laboratory practice

Desirable

• Experience with high-power or high-energy ultrafast laser systems
• Experience designing stretchers and compressors for short pulse systems
• Programming skills in MATLAB, Python or LabVIEW for modelling, control or data analysis
• Experience with system integration, control systems, and optical design tools such as Zemax OpticStudio
• Familiarity with real-world applications of short pulse laser systems, for example in advanced manufacturing or secondary source generation
• Experience working in precision laser laboratory and cleanroom environments, and with translating system requirements into optical specifications with external suppliers
• A track record of scientific publications, conference presentations, or other external technical contributions, and willingness to travel occasionally in support of customers, partners or technical representation

Why join DiPOLE

• Join early and help shape a venture-backed deep-tech company as we move from prototype to product
• Take on a role with real technical ownership, where you’ll influence system direction as well as delivery
• Work closely with senior leadership on high-impact technical decisions
• Help build the foundations of a high-performing science and engineering culture
• Tackle challenging, real-world laser system problems with direct relevance to deployable products
• Be based at Harwell Campus, Didcot, one of the UK’s leading environments for advanced science and engineering
• Work in a team that values thoughtful design, strong technical standards, clear documentation and sustainable pace

Compensation & practicalities

• Salary: £75,000 – £100,000, depending on experience
• Equity: employee share options (we expect to offer options as part of the package; exact grant depends on experience and will be discussed during the process). Typically, options vest over time (often with a 1-year cliff); we’ll confirm the scheme and terms during the process.
• Based at Harwell Campus, Didcot
• Primarily on-site, reflecting the hands-on nature of the work
• Flexible working arrangements supported where compatible with lab, build and test activity

Hiring process
We aim to run a clear process: an application form, an initial call, a technical interview, and a practical/design discussion (we’ll share what to expect in advance). We’re happy to make reasonable adjustments for candidates who need them.

How to apply
Send us your CV and a cover letter recruitment@dipolesystems.com referencing relevant optical system design work you’ve done.

If you’re not sure you tick every box but you think you’d be great in the role, we’d still like to hear from you.