Material Model Developer

AWE is currently recruiting for a Theoretical Scientist, to work as a Material Model Developer within our Materials Physics Group, to exercise and improve capability in understanding nuclear warhead safety, performance, effectiveness, and national nuclear security through scientific research, modelling and assessment.

Location:Aldermaston, West Berkshire. We are located between Reading and Basingstoke, with onsite parking.

Due to the classified nature of this role, it is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend the majority of their time working on site at AWE Aldermaston during their working hours.

Package: £33,000 - £44,000 (depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience)

Closing Date: 10th April 2024

About AWE

AWE plays a crucial role in the defence of the United Kingdom, by providing and maintaining the warheads for the country's nuclear deterrent. We are a centre of scientific, engineering, and technological excellence, with some of the most advanced research, design, and production facilities in the world. Our unique expertise also assists the UK Government in developing and delivering a range of innovative and integrated support services, including national nuclear security and counter-terrorism solutions.

AWE is at the start of once-in-a-generation work programmes that will ensure we protect the UK's safety and security for decades to come.

The Role

You will be working in a theory and modelling team within a multi-disciplinary group, that contributes to AWE's understanding of the behaviour of materials at high temperatures, pressures, and strain rates.

The team uses modelling techniques applied at a variety of physical length scales to understand how materials deform and fracture at high strain rates. The techniques applied range from first principles quantum mechanics and molecular dynamics, to mesoscale and continuum simulations. These aim to understand and predict the behaviour of a variety of materials in response to extreme loading conditions and develop models that can be applied to simulate the behaviour of nuclear warheads.

This specific role will require the candidate to develop models at primarily the meso- and continuum scale, such as finite element crystal plasticity codes.

The role will also involve undertaking independent research, as well as working as part of a team, to develop models and to design and analyse experiments performed by internal and external collaborators.

Who Are We Looking For?

To be considered for this role, you will need the following:

• A PhD, or a BA/MSc qualification with relevant industry experience, in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, or another numerate/STEM discipline.

• Experience with scientific programming, using languages such as Fortran, C++, Python, or a similar high-level language, and of working in the Unix/Linux environment.

• Experience in undertaking scientific research in either a university or industrial context.

• A methodical approach to complex problem solving using technical knowledge.

• A clear and concise communication approach, both oral and written.

• The ability to prioritise a varied workload, ensuring timely delivery with minimum supervision.

• A specialism or interest in one or more of the following areas is highly advantageous:

  • Molecular dynamics simulation

  • Plasticity modelling/crystal plasticity

  • Continuum mechanics

AWE is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity, and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from sections of the community which are currently under-represented at AWE, including women, BAME and people with disabilities.

What will you get from us?

As part of our People Promise, AWE (one of the best 25 big companies to work for in the UK) has a range of benefits to suit you. These include:

• Time to recharge your batteries with 270 hours of annual leave (including Bank Holidays).

• 9-day working fortnight - every other Friday off work.

• Flexible working hours.

• Consideration for flexible working arrangements so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know on your application if you wish to work part time.

• Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.

• Opportunities for Professional Career Development that include funding for the annual membership of a relevant professional body, access to mentors and training.

• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.

• A market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your own contribution).

• Life Assurance.

• Discounts - access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending savings.

• Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring for your family.

• A host of voluntary & core benefits to suit your health and wellbeing - more information available on our careers site.

Important things you need to know:

• You must be a UK national who has been resident in the UK for the past 10 years.

• Interviews will be 90 minutes in length and will be held over Microsoft Teams. You will be required to prepare a 10-minute presentation in advance.Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE.

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* Agencies: Please note that we do not out-source our recruitment