LIDAR / LADAR has become widespread in recent years, and uses pulse lasers to make time of flight measurements in order to build up a digital model of a scene. MBDA is undertaking investigations into the use of extreme LIDAR as a missile seeker technology.

This project centres on the emerging need for optical devices engineered to allow high-speed LIDAR measurement in environments with high levels of vibration, temperature fluctuations and limited SWaP (size, weight and power) whilst maintaining long range and high-resolution capabilities.

As a research engineer you will undertake work looking into novel (solid state) beam steering techniques, high power pulse lasers, acousto-optics, fast detection, data processing and 3D scene reconstruction models. The work will provide a balance between experimental laboratory work, programming, and theoretical analysis. You will work looking into materials testing and how we can push the state of the art of optical technology in the relevant areas, as well as creating new methodologies for ensuring best use of the data provided by LIDAR systems.