Senior Research Engineer - Optics and Sensing

About Dyson Electronic Systems Research Team

Dyson's Electronic Systems Research Team pioneers and crafts core technologies that underpin groundbreaking consumer products. Operating globally from Singapore and the UK, this team pushes the envelope in established and emerging product domains by tackling overlooked technological challenges. The Singapore branch is expanding and invites inquisitive engineers eager to transform novel ideas into tangible prototypes. The team works broadly across sensor technology, power electronics, machine learning, embedded systems and software, collaborating with internal experts and external partners in areas like thermal design, optics, electromagnetics, acoustics, mechanical engineering, microbiology, and compliance.

Role Overview

The Senior Research Engineer focusing on optics and sensing will explore, develop, and validate innovative optical and sensing technology concepts for future Dyson products. Responsibilities include working on camera systems, optical sensing, machine vision, and multi-sensor integration, undertaking simulations and empirical research to demonstrate technical viability and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigate cutting-edge optical, imaging, and sensing technologies via literature review, supplier consultations, patent analysis, and experimental studies.
• Design and construct proof-of-concept experimental setups to evaluate technological feasibility and performance characteristics.
• Conduct performance characterization, testing, and comprehensive data analysis for optical and sensing systems.
• Develop algorithms and data processing tools for image and signal analysis using MATLAB, Python, and C/C++.
• Execute optical simulations using Zemax and LightTools, focusing on non-sequential ray tracing for illumination design.
• Assist in the design of optical components including imaging optics, illumination setups, filters, polarizers, and camera modules.
• Establish and execute camera system performance assessments using standardized image quality metrics and methods.
• Use tools like Imatest, MATLAB, and Python frameworks to evaluate imaging quality.
• Collaborate with image sensor manufacturers, optics suppliers, and technology partners to source and test hardware components.
• Formulate testing methodologies for sensing and imaging hardware.
• Work collaboratively across diverse teams including machine learning, software engineering, mechanical and electronics engineering, compliance, and product teams.
• Document research findings and present technical outcomes in reports, presentations, and reviews.
• Take initiative and ownership of engineering challenges, driving solutions to completion autonomously.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• A degree (Bachelor's, Master's or PhD) in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electronics Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Proven experience in developing optical, imaging, or sensing systems.
• Strong practical skills in laboratory experimentation including building, debugging, and validating test rigs and prototype systems.
• Expertise in optical system testing and characterization methodologies.
• Solid understanding of imaging systems, camera modules, image sensors, illumination design, and optical components.
• Experience in image and signal processing as well as data analytics.
• Proficient in programming environments such as MATLAB or Python for algorithm and data development.
• Familiar with advanced optical simulation tools, especially non-sequential ray tracing and illumination system design.
• Excellent ability to independently plan and carry out technical investigations with minimal oversight.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills combined with a self-driven learning attitude.

Desired Skills and Knowledge

• Experience with sequential optical design and lens system development for imaging.
• Background in characterizing consumer camera systems and assessing image quality.
• Familiarity with image quality metrics such as MTF, distortion, relative illumination, color accuracy, noise performance, and dynamic range.
• Using Imatest or similar image quality assessment tools.
• Experience with machine vision or computational imaging technologies.
• Knowledge of applying machine learning and AI to sensing and imaging systems.
• Working knowledge of diverse sensing technologies such as IMU, PIR, MEMS sensors, microphones, magnetic sensors, optical flow, ToF or depth sensors.
• Experience with consumer electronics and high-volume manufacturing products.
• Understanding of sensor fusion and multimodal sensing systems.

Personal Attributes

• A genuine curiosity and passion for emerging technologies.
• Self-motivated and effective working as an individual contributor.
• Strong ownership mentality and ability to work independently.
• Excellent communication and technical presentation capabilities.
• Collaborative mindset to work well across multidisciplinary teams.
• A practical, hands-on approach to solving real-world technical challenges.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Dyson embraces diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. All hiring decisions are made without bias regarding race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.