PhD Physicist (2026 start)

Introduction

We are looking for PhD Physicists with a passion for innovation and technology to join our Applied Science team.

You will take on complex problems across a range of industries, including Healthcare, Defence, and Energy, by applying your scientific understanding, and your drive and curiosity to learn new things.

You will be motivated by the idea of applying your theoretical knowledge and experimental skill to solving real-world engineering challenges.

What we can offer

This role will offer a wide variety of technical challenges and opportunities for personal development. We take pride in being ahead of the technology curve, working with and developing exciting new technology. The projects we work on are highly diverse and you will combine your existing skills and knowledge with an appetite to rapidly identify and assimilate whatever new information is necessary to solve the problem at hand. Examples of recent work undertaken for our clients include:

• Development of a novel imaging system based on multi-wavelength holography

• Design, simulation and manufacture of custom ultrasonic measurement system

• Development of a miniaturised magnetic positioning system for a high-volume consumer product

• Teardown and reverse engineering of complex high-power laser instrument for industrial application

• Technical analysis of superconducting power distribution system

We are a nurturing team – you will be supported throughout to develop your career in the direction you want, with mentoring and training provided. Opportunities for development and progression are varied and will be tailored to the interests, experience, and skills of the successful candidate, with scope to develop increased technical, commercial and/or programme expertise and leadership.

What you can bring

•
Strong academic credentials, with a relevant Physics BSc (or equivalent) and a PhD in a related field.

• Experience working in the lab, as well as conducting desk based analysis

• Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal)

• A collaborative approach

• The ability to gain UK security clearance.

Additionally, we’re seeking candidates who can demonstrate at least one of the following, whether through university coursework or personal projects:

• An interest working on optical and/or photonic systems, with practical experience of either free-space optics, fibre-optic systems, or photonic devices.

• Knowledge of quantum technologies (sensing, compute, comms).

• Experience driving finite-element simulation tools (e.g. Ansys Maxwell, Ansys Fluent), and/or experience performing custom numerical simulations using generic software tools, like Python or MATLAB.

• Practical experience with electronics or radio systems.

Most importantly, you must be willing to take on new challenges, learn on the job, and grow your capabilities.

Some projects at Cambridge Consultants are subject to security restrictions. This role requires you to obtain a Security Check level security clearance ( https://www.gov.uk/guidance/united-kingdom-security-vetting-applicant ). You must be able to work in the UK without restrictions in accordance with UK National Law and be prepared to successfully undertake an appropriate level of UK National Security Vetting according to UK Government National Security Vetting criteria.