Future Network Technologist - FTC
Digital Catapult is a UK deep tech innovation organisation that accelerates the practical application of advanced technologies. It supports startups, industry, government, investors and academia through research and development, consultancy, acceleration programmes, testbed facilities and collaborative innovation.
Projects
About Digital Catapult
Digital Catapult bridges the gap between deep tech research and real-world deployment. Its work spans artificial intelligence, quantum computing, advanced networks, distributed systems, immersive technologies and the Internet of Things. The organisation provides bespoke software and data systems, platform engineering, technology and innovation consultancy, acceleration programmes, membership, access to specialised laboratories and testbeds, and ecosystem convening. It works with startups and scaleups, large businesses, government and public-sector organisations, investors, and academic institutions across the UK.
Skills
Candidate Availability
Required and preferred rules are kept separate and reflect the wording in the original posting.
About the Role
Digital Catapult seeks a Future Network Technologist for a 12-month fixed-term contract supporting the AESTRAM project. The role focuses on orchestration across open, quantum-safe terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, combining technical research, testing, software development, stakeholder engagement, and research dissemination.
Requirements
- MSc in Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent industrial research experience.
- PhD in a relevant area is advantageous.
- Research experience in at least two of TN/NTN, network and service orchestration, telecom AI, Open RAN, and quantum-safe networks.
- Experience with network optimisation models and tools is beneficial.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and documentation skills.
- Experience with specialised test and measurement tools and packet capture tools such as tcpdump and Wireshark.
- Strong understanding of 3GPP, O-RAN, and ETSI standards.
- Experience in collaborative research projects is advantageous.
- Practical experience with commercial or testbed network equipment is advantageous.
- Successful completion of BPSS clearance before starting employment.
Responsibilities
- Contribute to open future network architectures across the AESTRAM project.
- Shape research directions around 6G, AI services, and terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.
- Design architectures, functions, and interfaces.
- Develop, evaluate, and defend original research ideas in open, AI-powered, and quantum-safe networking.
- Consolidate research into publications, simulations, intellectual property, and demonstrations.
- Benchmark and optimise end-to-end Open RAN systems.
- Execute test suites using specialised test and measurement tools and report results.
- Direct and assist with software and demonstration network development.
- Prepare and deliver oral presentations and written reports.
- Ensure quality deliverables and transfer research results to stakeholders.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave
- Bank Holidays
- 3 days between Christmas and New Year
- Double-matched pension up to 10% of salary
- Discretionary company bonus
- 4% salary benefits allowance
- Health cash plan
- Private Medical Insurance
- Option to buy holiday
- Option to top up pension
- E-Vehicle Scheme
- Cycle2Work
- Tech Scheme
- Gym Discounts
- Give As You Earn
- PerkPal
- Life insurance at 4x salary
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Financial Wellbeing advice
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- Hybrid working
- Company social events
- Free office snacks
Hiring Process
Applicants must successfully complete Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance before starting employment.