Optical Scientist Engineer

The company IOMI is a Cambridge-based biotechnology startup building at the intersection of biology and artificial intelligence. We are a small, fast-moving team, and we are now looking for an experienced Optical Engineer or Scientist to build the custom instruments at the heart of our research. The role Cambridge, UK | 9-month fixed term, part time with the possibility of becoming permanent | Start November 2026 or ASAP This is a hands-on role designing, building and maintaining custom optics from individual components: illumination, lasers, objectives, filters and cameras. You will take each instrument from concept and sketch through assembly, alignment, characterisation and troubleshooting, to a robust system that our biology and data science team use every day. The work spans brightfield, darkfield, fluorescence and polarisation-resolved microscopy, together with high-speed imaging, automation and the control software that ties it all together. It calls for strong optics theory combined with the practical ability to get designs off the optical bench and into reliable, routine use. You will also help train and supervise students and interns working on our instruments. Career This is an early hire. You will have real ownership of the instrumentation, a direct say in what we build next, and the chance to shape how IOMI's technology develops as the company grows. Requirements

• A bachelor's degree with relevant hands-on experience, or a master's or PhD, in physics, optical engineering, engineering, chemistry, materials science or a related field, with a strong grounding in optics theory.
• Demonstrated experience building at least one bespoke optical microscope from individual components, covering design, sourcing, assembly, alignment and performance characterisation.
• Practical experience with lasers and laser safety, beam paths and fluorescence optics (excitation and emission filtering, dichroics and filter sets).
• Basic electronics and microcontrollers for triggering and hardware control.
• Self-motivated, careful and practical, able to work independently in a small team.
• Ideally, a sound understanding of polarisation optics (for example Jones or Mueller calculus) with practical polariser and analyser alignment, plus programming for instrument control (Python preferred), CAD and 3D printing, and high-speed or low-light cameras. How to apply Send your CV (maximum 2-3 pages), a cover letter and, if you have one, a publications list to nexus@iomi.bio. In your cover letter, describe at least one instrument you have built and your personal contribution to it. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. IOMI welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds.