About the role

Join BT’s Network’s Research team to help shape the next generation of optical and quantum network capabilities. You’ll turn research into practical outcomes by building proofs of concept, developing demonstrations and supporting field trials across lab, exchange and network environments.

This is a hands-on role for someone with a PhD in optics, optical networks or quantum who enjoys working directly with equipment and wants to apply their research in industry. You’ll join a world-leading group conducting pioneering experiments and collaborating with leading organisations across the global optics and quantum ecosystem.

The role can be based in Ipswich or Bristol and our hybrid working model means you are expected to be in the office / laboratory 3 days per week..

What you’ll be doing

•    Build optical and quantum proofs of concept and demonstrations.
•    Configure, connect and integrate test equipment and vendor equipment for lab experiments and field trials.
•    Verify optical network and quantum system performance in the lab.
•    Support trials in operational environments, including exchanges, by installing and provisioning equipment.
•    Collaborate with stakeholders across BT working on future optical networks, security and potential quantum services.
•    Work with external partners, universities, vendors and other organisations across the optics and quantum ecosystem.
•    Help translate emerging research into capabilities that could support BT’s networks, customers and future products.

Essential Skills / Experience

Our three must-have requirements are:

• Hands-on laboratory experience: Practical experience setting up and operating lab equipment, working with optical fibre and building experimental systems—not solely theoretical, modelling or desk-based research.
• A drive to apply research in industry: A clear interest in moving beyond academic research to build, test and demonstrate technology with practical value.
• A relevant PhD would be beneficial: A PhD focused on optics, optical networks or quantum.

Desirable Skills / Experience

You may also bring experience in one or more of the following areas:

•    Building optical systems using components such as optical fibre, lasers and receivers.
•    Optical transmission, optical networking or quantum systems.
•    Configuring IP or Ethernet networks and associated vendor equipment.
•    Deploying or building networks in a university, technology vendor, network operator or similar environment.

You do not need to arrive with extensive commercial experience. We welcome candidates from academia with practical hands on experience who are motivated to apply their expertise in industry and develop their understanding of commercial research.

Why join us
You’ll work alongside highly regarded researchers on ambitious optical and quantum projects, with opportunities to contribute to pioneering experiments and practical demonstrations. The team’s position within BT creates broad scope to collaborate with leading companies, universities and specialists worldwide.
This is an opportunity to build on your academic expertise, gain exposure to industrial research and see your work move from the lab towards real network and customer applications.

Our Package

Tailored benefits make a real difference. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range to support your growth, wellbeing, and everyday life. You can design the package to suit you and your lifestyle. Your core benefits include: 

10% on target annual bonus 

Access to an online private GP 24/7 for you and your immediate family  

Market-leading paid carers leave with up to 2 weeks off  

Equalised maternity, paternity, and adoption leave – 18 weeks’ full pay and 8 weeks’ half pay 

Discounted EE and BT products, including mobile and broadband 

Market leading Pension scheme – 5% from you and 10% from us 

Holiday purchase scheme 

You can select additional benefits, including healthcare, dental, gym memberships and more when you’re ready.