R&D Physicist

Destinus seeks a Mid-level R&D Physicist in Payerne, CH, to develop in-house experimental diagnostics for solid rocket motors. The role focuses on building and operating measurement systems for high-speed dynamic phenomena.

This position is responsible for establishing and managing internal experimental capabilities to capture velocities, pressures, and rapid physical events. The hired professional will take full ownership of experimental setups, guiding them from initial concept and construction through commissioning and routine operation.

Responsibilities

• Design, construct, and commission rigs to characterize physical phenomena such as shock, temperature, and optical behavior.
• Select, integrate, and align laser-based measurement systems alongside detection electronics.
• Develop sensor chains, signal conditioning units, and high-speed data acquisition workflows.
• Build and debug custom electronics or interface boards for specific experimental needs.
• Define test plans, calibration procedures, and data analysis methods for measurement campaigns.
• Operate R&D setups during tests, including troubleshooting and making real-time adjustments.
• Analyze experimental data and correlate findings with physical models or engineering predictions.
• Document experiments, procedures, and results with high rigor for design and qualification purposes.
• Collaborate with propulsion, pyrotechnics, structures, and test teams to align experimental approaches with engineering questions.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of hands-on experience in experimental physics, R&D, or diagnostics environments.
• Practical experience with optical and laser-based measurement techniques, such as interferometry, velocimetry, or spectroscopy.
• Solid understanding of analog and digital electronics, including wiring, debugging, and instrumenting test setups.
• Experience with high-speed data acquisition, oscilloscopes, signal conditioning, and detector electronics.
• Proficiency in data analysis using Python or equivalent tools.
• A hands-on, problem-solving mindset capable of building rigs independently.
• Structured approach to test planning, calibration, and uncertainty quantification.
• Strong documentation discipline and ability to work safely in lab and test environments.
• Good communication skills and comfort working in cross-functional, fast-moving teams.
• Willingness to travel to other Destinus sites in Switzerland (up to 20% of time).
• Fluency in English is required.

Nice to have

• Experience with PCB and electronics design.
• Fluency in German or French.

About the company

Destinus advances solid rocket motor and pyrotechnic technology by focusing on the measurement of dynamic phenomena that occur in microseconds.

• Focus on measuring ultra-fast dynamic phenomena in rocket technology.
• Cross-functional collaboration across propulsion, pyrotechnics, and structures teams.