Theoretical Scientist

AWE has an exciting opportunity for a Theoretical Physicist to join the Thermomechanical Effects Team (within our Radiation Science Group), to grow our simulation capability.

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

Package: £38,0000-£42,000 pa (depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience)

Closing Date: 3rd April 2024

The Role.

The Thermomechanical Effects Team's mission is to assess the performance of nuclear weapons in extreme environments using state of the art modelling tools to predict how weapon materials, components and systems respond to extreme conditions.

You will learn how to use a range of bespoke and commercial simulation tools to understand the problems and will have opportunities to develop tools and techniques for our unique simulation regime.

Although beneficial, prior experience is not required. Owing to the unique nature of our work we will provide training in the relevant physics and simulation tools to give you a sound grounding in the work.

The simulations you perform will directly support the design and approval process, troubleshoot complex problems and assist with new technology research. This will involve analysis of experiment data, supporting the design of experiments to validate models and becoming a subject matter expert in our work area to support broader programme objectives.

Who Are We Looking For?

To be a success in this role you will need:

• A PhD in Physics or an equivalent STEM-based discipline, or a Masters Degree with relevant post-graduate experience in computational simulation.

• Enthusiasm for learning new physics and contributing to the advancement of understanding of materials under extreme conditions.

• Experience in numerical simulation of complex physics problems.

• Knowledge of any of the following would be beneficial but is not essential to being successful in the role: radiation effects, solid state physics, computational methods, shock physics, computational fluid dynamics, thermodynamics.

• Knowledge of at least one data analysis tool (Python, Perl, C++, Fortran) would be beneficial but is not essential as training can be provided.

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 well-being - more information available on our careers site.

Important things you need to know:

• 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