Research Scientist/Engineer in Lasers and Photonics

CONTEXT

We are seeking a full-time research scientist or engineer with a master’s degree in physics, photonics, optical engineering or a related engineering discipline to join the ‘PESLAPOD’ project. The position combines laser and optical system modelling, experimental measurements, and the integration and testing of technologies for laser power transfer and optical communication with drones.

The Royal Military Academy is a recognised university conducting academic and applied research funded by Belgian Defence and external organisations. We value diversity and equal opportunities. Whether you are a man, a woman or X, or come from any background, we firmly believe that diversity enriches our community, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

PROJECT

PESLAPOD (Persistent Eye in the Sky from Laser Powered Drones) is a three-year research project managed by the European Defence Agency. It investigates long-range laser power transfer to extend the endurance of small electric drones, with the longer-term ambition of enabling continuous airborne operation. The project also addresses secure, reliable communication with drones and resilient navigation in environments with jamming or unavailable satellite navigation signals (GNSS).

Alongside other international partners, Belgium has committed to contributing to this research project through research activities at the Royal Military Academy. You will work within the Royal Military Academy’s Department of Communication, Information, Systems, and Sensors (CISS), specifically in the Laser & Optronics research unit (https://optro.rma.ac.be), in close collaboration with scientists and engineers from other consortium partners.

MAIN TASKS

• Model and evaluate laser beam propagation and optical link performance for drone power transfer and communication, taking atmospheric conditions and operational constraints into account.
• Develop and conduct laboratory measurements to characterise relevant laser and optical components, including beam properties, optical power and receiver performance.
• Contribute to the integration and experimental validation of laser power transfer and optical communication systems.
• Prepare for and participate in field trials, analyse measurement data, and compare experimental results with model predictions.
• Assess laser safety requirements and develop appropriate operating procedures and protective measures for the applications under study.
• Review current approaches (state of the art) to high‑power laser safety and contribute to the assessment of safety requirements, operating procedures and protective measures for laboratory and field activities.
• Contribute to the concept study for long-distance optical power transfer to high‑altitude pseudo‑satellites.
• Prepare technical reports and scientific publications, and present results at consortium meetings, conferences and stakeholder meetings.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Applicants should hold a master’s degree in physics, photonics, optical engineering, electrical engineering or a related discipline, with relevant knowledge of lasers and optical systems.

Applications are welcome from recent graduates to candidates with research and/or industrial experience.

“MUST HAVE” skills

• A sound understanding of lasers, optics and beam propagation.
• Practical experience with optical experiments or instrumentation, gained through academic projects, a thesis, an internship or employment.
• Ability to analyse experimental data and interpret results using physical principles.
• Ability to prepare clear technical and scientific documents.
• Good spoken and written English is essential.

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be an advantage:

• Optical alignment, beam profiling and laser power measurements.
• Free‑space optical communications or optical power transfer.
• Atmospheric propagation modelling or measurements.
• Photodetectors, optical receivers and data acquisition.
• Python, MATLAB or LabVIEW for modelling, instrument control or data analysis.
• Training or experience in the use of high-energy lasers.
• Laser safety, particularly for high‑power laser systems, would be an asset

Personal skills

• You work carefully and systematically, with attention to experimental quality and safety.
• You take initiative and progressively develop independence, with guidance from experienced researchers.
• You collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary and international team.
• You communicate methods and results clearly.
• You respect confidentiality requirements when handling consortium information and intellectual property.
• Knowledge of Dutch and/or French is an added value.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS