Senior Research Engineer - Optics and Sensing

About Us:

The Electronic Systems Research Team are responsible for inventing and developing many of the key technologies that enable Dyson’s innovative new products. Our global team operates across Singapore and the UK, working on both established and emerging product categories. The team use technology to solve problems that others ignore. Our Singapore team of creative engineers is growing, and we want to hear from you if you are interested in joining us to bring pioneering technologies from concept to reality in innovative consumer products, building technology demonstrations and proof of concept product prototypes. The team cover a diverse range of research topics including sensor technology, power electronics, machine learning, embedded systems and embedded software. We work closely with internal Dyson teams, external research institutions and suppliers to consider all aspects of complex products including thermal design, optics, electromagnetics, aero-acoustics, mechanical design, microbiology and compliance. We are looking for inquisitive engineers who can take ownership of technical challenges and drive solutions through to completion to develop the electronic systems for the next generation of Dyson products.

About the Role:

As a Senior Research Engineer working on optics and sensing systems, you will be responsible for researching, developing, and evaluating novel optical and sensing technologies for future products. You will work across camera systems, optical sensing, machine vision, and multi-sensor platforms, conducting both simulation and experimental investigations to assess technical feasibility and performance.

The role requires a hands-on engineer, capable of working independently, building experimental rigs, analysing data, and driving technology development from idea generation through to demonstrator delivery.

Key responsibilities include:

• Research and evaluate emerging optical, imaging, and sensing technologies through technical literature, supplier engagement, patents, and experimental investigations.
• Design, build, and validate proof-of-concept systems and experimental rigs to assess technology feasibility and performance.
• Conduct optical and sensing performance characterisation, testing, and data analysis.
• Develop image processing, signal processing, and data analysis tools using MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++.
• Perform optical simulations using Zemax and/or LightTools, including non-sequential ray tracing for illumination and light delivery systems.
• Support optical system design activities including imaging optics, illumination systems, filters, polarisers, and camera modules.
• Characterise and qualify camera system performance using image quality metrics and industry-standard methodologies.
• Evaluate image quality using tools such as Imatest, MATLAB, and Python-based analysis frameworks.
• Work with image sensors, optics suppliers, and technology partners to identify and assess suitable hardware solutions.
• Develop and implement test methodologies for sensing and imaging systems.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including machine learning, software, mechanical, electronics, compliance, and product development teams.
• Document technical findings and communicate results through reports, presentations, and design reviews.
• Take ownership of technical challenges and independently drive solutions to completion.

Key Skills / Experience

Skills and Experience

Essential

• Degree (Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD) in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electronics Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience developing optical, imaging, or sensing systems.
• Strong hands-on laboratory and experimental skills, including building, debugging, and validating test rigs and prototypes.
• Experience with optical system testing and characterisation.
• Good understanding of imaging systems, camera modules, image sensors, illumination systems, and optical components.
• Experience in image processing, signal processing, and data analytics.
• Proficiency in MATLAB or Python for algorithm development and data analysis.
• Experience with non-sequential optical simulation, ray tracing, and illumination design.
• Ability to independently plan, execute, and deliver technical investigations with minimal supervision.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Self-motivated with a passion for learning and exploring new technologies.

Preferred

• Experience with sequential optical design and imaging lens system development.
• Experience characterising consumer camera systems and evaluating image quality performance.
• Familiarity with image quality metrics such as MTF, Distortion, Relative illumination, Colour accuracy, Noise performance, Dynamic range
• Experience with Imatest or equivalent image-quality evaluation software.
• Experience with machine vision or computational imaging systems.
• Knowledge of machine learning and AI models applied to sensing or imaging systems.
• Experience working with one or more of the following sensing technologies: IMU, PIR sensors, MEMS sensors, Microphones, Magnetic sensors (Hall Effect, AMR, TMR, etc.), Optical flow sensors, ToF or depth sensors
• Experience working with consumer electronics or high-volume product development.
• Familiarity with sensor fusion and multimodal sensing systems.

Personal Attributes

• Curious and passionate about emerging technologies.
• Self-driven and capable of operating effectively within an individual contributor environment.
• Strong ownership mindset and ability to work independently.
• Excellent communication and technical presentation skills.
• Collaborative and able to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Practical, hands-on engineer who enjoys solving real-world problems through experimentation.

Dyson is an equal opportunity employer. We know that great minds don’t think alike, and it takes all kinds of minds to make our technology so unique. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and employment decisions are made without regard to race, colour, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other any other dimension of diversity.