Research Engineer

Company Overview

An innovative medical technology company specialising in medica imaging and surgical technologies is expanding its R&D team.

The business develops advanced, connected technologies used by ophthalmic surgeons and clinical teams internationally, combining medical imaging, computer vision, optics and software to improve surgical planning and guidance.

This is a highly technical, science-led environment where research doesn't sit on a shelf — the algorithms and prototypes you develop have a direct route into products used in real clinical settings.

Role Overview

As a Computer Vision / Imaging Algorithm Engineer, you will research, prototype and validate the algorithms behind advanced ophthalmic imaging and surgical guidance technologies.

You’ll own technical questions from initial concept through experimentation, data collection, algorithm development and formal validation, working hands-on with both software and physical technology.

Crucially, your Python prototypes aren't simply proofs of concept — successful algorithms can progress directly into the product through formal verification and validation.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, develop and optimise image processing and computer vision algorithms using Python.
• Design and execute experiments, including defining datasets, test setups and measurable acceptance criteria.
• Analyse accuracy, precision, repeatability and measurement performance across algorithms and medical technologies.
• Develop robust Python prototypes and translate research concepts into validated, product-ready solutions.
• Produce technical protocols, research documentation and reports suitable for formal Quality and Regulatory review.

Skills & Experience

• MSc + 3 years' professional experience or a PhD in Computer Vision, Image Processing, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, Optics, Computer Science or a related technical discipline.
• Strong Python development skills, particularly NumPy, SciPy and OpenCV, with an understanding of maintainable and testable code.
• Strong practical knowledge of computer vision, image processing and statistical analysis of measurement systems.
• Comfortable designing experiments, working hands-on in a laboratory environment and translating data into clear technical conclusions.
• Experience within medical devices, ophthalmic imaging, optics, deep learning, clinical data or V&V would be highly advantageous.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This is an opportunity to work at the point where computer vision, medical imaging and real-world clinical technology meet.

Rather than developing algorithms in isolation, you'll be able to see your research progress from an initial idea through experimentation and validation into technology designed for use by surgeons and clinical teams.

You'll join a collaborative R&D environment with the freedom to explore new ideas, access to professional development and international exposure, including occasional travel across Europe and the US.

If you're passionate about computer vision and want your work to have a tangible impact on medical technology and patient care, I'd be very interested in speaking with you.

Your Consultant

James Allen is a specialist headhunter and executive search recruiter within the Medical Device and Life Sciences sector, focusing on Commercial, Go-to-Market, Sales, Strategy, Leadership and Engineering appointments across Europe. He works closely with ambitious medical device and healthcare businesses to identify high-impact commercial talent that can build teams, enter new markets, develop strategic partnerships and accelerate growth.