Applied Physicist

Description:

PA Consulting is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Applied Physicist – Experimental Physics to join its Applied Sciences team at the Global Innovation and Technology Centre in Cambridge. This role is designed for scientists who are motivated to move beyond theory and apply fundamental science to real-world problems by developing prototypes and tangible solutions for clients across industries such as healthcare, defence, consumer electronics, communications, FMCG, and more.

At PA, applied scientists work on early-stage and proof-of-concept projects, answering the critical question: “Is this possible?”. By combining ingenuity, rigorous science, and hands-on experimentation, the Applied Sciences team helps clients make data-driven product development decisions, gain competitive advantage, and accelerate innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and contribute to experimental research, applying physics to design, prototype, and characterise breakthrough technologies.

• Develop sensing and measurement systems for complex, high-demand applications.

• Build lab test rigs and experimental setups to conduct proof-of-principle tests grounded in scientific principles.

• Collect, analyse, and interpret experimental data using tools such as Matlab, Python, LabVIEW, R, or Minitab.

• Translate scientific findings into commercially viable, scalable product solutions across sectors including medical devices, optics, fluidics, and advanced materials.

• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams of engineers, designers, and scientists to deliver cutting-edge client solutions.

• Communicate findings effectively, presenting results to stakeholders and clients with clarity and impact.

Candidate Profile:

• Strong academic background in Physics (PhD preferred) with a focus on applied solutions.

• Hands-on experience developing sensing/measurement systems in industrial or research settings.

• Proficiency in data acquisition, processing, and algorithm development.

• Practical skills in building and troubleshooting lab rigs and experimental apparatus.

• Proven ability to collect, analyse, and present data logically and rigorously.

• Industrial R&D experience in high-technology organisations, ideally in cross-disciplinary teams.

• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to bridge science and business needs.

• Knowledge of optics, fluidics, new materials, or medical device development is highly advantageous.

Life at PA Consulting:
PA Consulting values ingenuity, inclusivity, and diversity, fostering a culture where every individual can thrive. Employees enjoy purpose-led work, growth opportunities, and exposure to a wide range of projects shaping the future of industries worldwide.

Benefits Include:

• Private healthcare for employees and their families

• 25 days annual leave (plus 0.5 day on Christmas Eve) with option to purchase 5 additional days

• Generous company pension scheme

• Annual performance-based bonus and share ownership options

• Lifestyle perks including cycle-to-work and tax-efficient schemes

• Opportunities for community and charity engagement