Quantum PNT Year In Industry Intern

Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust. Thales supports the security and stability of our nation by providing extraordinary technology to our customers, as well as delivering social value to the UK with our products and services.

Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust. Thales supports the security and stability of our nation by providing extraordinary technology to our customers, as well as delivering social value to the UK with our products and services.

We are looking for a Quantum PNT Year in Industry Intern to join our Thales Research, Technology & Innovation (TRT) team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on pioneering research into Quantum Position, Navigation & Timing (QPNT) and Quantum Sensing (QS), supporting the development of next-generation technologies. Working alongside experienced researchers, you'll contribute to low Technology Readiness Level (TRL) research, with an initial focus on applying open-source Python tools to Rydberg signal processing experiments.

Main Responsibilities

• Assist with the evaluation and further development of experimental software in Python and C.
• Support software-based experiments for Quantum Position, Navigation & Timing (QPNT) and Quantum Sensing (QS) technologies.
• Evaluate and apply open-source algorithmic tools to signal processing challenges.
• Work closely with the QPNT Lead Researcher to plan and perform research activities.
• Develop your technical skills and contribute to knowledge sharing within the team.

Ideal Experience & Skills

• Currently undertaking a degree in Physics, or a closely related discipline, with a Year in Industry as part of your course.
• Experience applying algorithmic problem solving to signal processing, sensor modelling or sensor data analysis.
• Practical programming experience in Python; knowledge of C would be advantageous.
• An interest in emerging sensing technologies, Position, Navigation & Timing, RF communications or quantum sensing.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a curiosity for research and innovation.

Benefits

• Performance-related bonus (grade dependent)
• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with opportunity to buy up to 40 hours/year (pro rata)
• 24 hours paid volunteering leave
• Pension scheme
• Life cover
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and access to a mental wellbeing app
• Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers
• Gym membership discounts

Security Clearance Requirement

Due to the nature of the work that we do at Thales, many of our roles are subject to security restrictions. This role requires Security Clearance (SC). It would be advantageous if currently held; however, if not currently held, the successful applicant will be required to undergo, achieve and maintain SC Clearance prior to commencing employment.

To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last five years. In some circumstances, a minimum of three years' residence in the UK over the last five years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.

Please visit the UKSV website for further guidance on National Security Vetting clearance levels.

At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all. The benefits we offer include private medical insurance, buying or selling annual leave, cycle to work schemes, employee discounts, paid volunteering day, stocks and shares, annual bonus and much more depending on the role. Read more about our benefits here.

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued for who they are and the unique strengths they bring. Discover more about our programmes, employee networks, wellbeing policies, and inclusive features here.

If this role isn’t quite right for you, we encourage you to join our talent community where your details will be shared with our recruitment teams for other potential opportunities. Join the Talent Community here.

Join Thales in the UK – Innovate with us and shape the future!