Interferometry & Displacement Scientist

The scientific responsibility

Resolve angular motion while understanding what the readout itself adds. Develop the displacement or angle measurement and its calibration across the full operating range.

Technical depth we are looking for

Interferometry; autocollimation; optical lever readout; phase estimation; cyclic error; alignment coupling; frequency response.

We expect research-level command of the relevant physics and methods, plus the ability to explain assumptions to adjacent specialists. A doctorate or equivalent demonstrated achievement is appropriate; the evidence of your work matters more than a particular institution.

Evidence to bring

A precision readout with calibrated sensitivity, linearity tests, noise spectra and environmental coupling measurements.

Provide public or authorized links and distinguish your individual contribution from the team’s work. Include a failure, correction or negative result that improved your judgment. Do not send confidential material.

Your first design assignment

Compare candidate readouts against bandwidth, back-action, alignment stability and cost, then specify a cross-check with a different principle.

This is a proposed priority after appointment, not an unpaid application assignment. The exact scope follows funding, access to appropriate facilities and an agreed work plan.

The failure mode you must be able to expose

Reporting impressive displacement resolution while ignoring angular-to-length coupling, cyclic error or a drifting reference.

A concrete first deliverable

A readout trade study, calibration protocol and noise model with testable limits.

Acceptance should be based on inspectable records, stated limitations and independent technical review. A positive propulsion result is not a prerequisite for useful scientific work.

A question for our technical conversation

How would you show that the readout has not created the apparent signal?

Appointment and compensation

This is a proposed capability profile within the founding priorities. Selected full-time founding appointments are proposed at USD $1M starting annual base salary with a USD $10M+ milestone bonus opportunity, subject to secured funding and signed terms. Location, benefits, start date and exact scope remain to be agreed. Read the complete compensation framework.