A highly experienced Optical Scientist who will lead the optical development, design, and optimization of advanced Instrumentation. This role combines theoretical expertise with practical implementation in both research and commercial applications for all PerkinElmer products.
The hands-on role requires the successful candidate to develop a good understanding of the function and use of the product as well as the underlying technology, in order to be able to develop and document both high-level functional and performance requirements and detailed sub-system requirements.
Collaborates with Key stakeholders to contribute to system design and specification, which may include concept development, design calculations or modelling of the system. The role will include collaboration and support of all PerkinElmer R&D centres.
The role also includes investigation of selected manufacturing/field failures in order to determine root cause and initiate remedial actions.

• Lead the conceptualization, design, modelling (e.g., Zemax), and development of sophisticated optical systems for PerkinElmer’s diverse product lines, including but not limited to:
• Spectrophotometers (UV-Vis-NIR, FTIR)
• Atomic spectroscopy (AAS, ICP-OES/MS)
• Imaging systems (microscopy, plate readers)
• laser-based instrumentation
• Define and validate system-level optical specifications and performance metrics, ensuring alignment with product requirements and market needs.
• Optimize optical designs for critical performance parameters such as sensitivity, resolution, signal-to-noise ratio, throughput, and manufacturability.
• Develop and document high-level functional requirements and detailed optical sub-system specifications.
• Conduct rigorous experimental validation and calibration of optical systems and instruments
• Serve as a subject matter expert and technical lead on complex optical challenges across multiple projects and product categories.
• Lead and contribute to research initiatives for novel spectroscopic techniques and innovative optical solutions that can be integrated into future PerkinElmer products.
• Actively investigate and evaluate emerging optical technologies, materials, and methodologies for potential application.
• Mentor and guide junior optical scientists and engineers, fostering technical growth within the team.
• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary R&D teams (including mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineers) across global sites (UK, China, North America) to ensure seamless integration of optical systems.
• Lead root cause analysis for complex manufacturing or field issues related to optical systems, proposing and implementing robust corrective actions.
• Work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability (DFM) and support the transfer of new optical designs.
• Author comprehensive technical documentation, research papers, and invention disclosures