Vacant job

As a researcher here, you will work with advanced laser systems where your expertise makes a real difference – from the laboratory to the field. Do you want to drive research that goes from basic idea to practical implementation for Sweden's defence? Then FOI could be your new workplace! We offer a balanced work life, a stimulating work environment, and socially important work!

About the position

We are looking for an engaged and driven researcher who wants to work and develop within the broad and challenging field of laser-based sensors and systems. The research area spans from basic theory to complex engineering trade-offs and the environment's impact on the technology.

As a researcher here, you are responsible for the entire research process, from idea to practical implementation for our clients. The work has a strong experimental foundation but includes everything from identifying relevant questions and modelling results to designing, building, and evaluating test setups in both laboratory and field environments.

Here, you will work in a stimulating environment together with experienced colleagues, where collaboration and knowledge sharing are a natural part of everyday life. We offer a workplace where your ideas are highly valued and where you have the opportunity to grow and develop your skills in an environment that promotes both personal and professional development.

About the unit

You will be part of the Laser Systems unit, which belongs to the Electronic Warfare department. We are an engaged group working on developing, demonstrating, and evaluating laser-based systems for military and security-oriented applications. Our operations are strongly experimentally oriented, and we value a culture characterized by collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Do you have the competence profile we need?

Requirements

We are looking for you who have:

• A PhD in, for example, physics or control engineering, or a specialization that FOI assesses as equivalent and relevant.
• Experience of the entire research process – from question formulation to analysis and reporting.
• Very good ability to express yourself orally and in writing in Swedish and English.
• A valid driver's license (Category B).

You are self-motivated, team-oriented, flexible, quality-conscious, and structured. You are also curious and have good practical skills. We place great emphasis on your personal qualities.

Merits

It is an advantage if you have:

• Programming skills in, for example, Python or C/C++.
• Experience in providing expert support to external clients.
• Previous experience in applied research, development work, or work in the optics field (e.g., camera technology or lasers).
• Experience in project management or supervision.

What do we offer you?

The Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI) is a government agency that conducts world-leading research in defence and security to support Sweden's military and civil defence. We offer a unique workplace where you have the opportunity to work on what is important for total defence and society as a whole. The research is applied both within defence authorities and among civilian actors and plays a crucial role in building a relevant and effective defence capability.

We consciously work for a good work environment with a good balance between work and private life. In addition, we offer a range of benefits. Read more about what it is like to work with us: https://www.foi.se/jobba-hos-oss.html (https://www.foi.se/jobba-hos-oss.html)

The position is a permanent employment that may begin with a six-month probationary period.

Do you want to help find answers for a safer world?

We welcome your application in the form of a CV and cover letter via the application button no later than August 20, 2026.

For more information about the position, you are welcome to contact Matts Björck. Union representatives are Jonny Genzel (Saco-S) and Pernilla Bergfeldt (OFR/S – ST). All can be reached at 08-555 030 00.

As the position is security-classified, Swedish citizenship is required. Security clearance with register check will be conducted prior to employment according to the Security Protection Act (2018:585). Prior to security clearance, certified copies of education and employment certificates relevant to the position are requested.

FOI is a public authority, meaning submitted application documents become public records that may be disclosed to third parties upon request in accordance with the Public Access to Information and Secrecy Act.

Offers from recruitment agencies are declined.