AWE have a small number of opportunities for Physicists to join our Plasma Physics Programme. Available roles include both Computational Modelling and Experimental Physicists.

We design, perform, and analyse experiments on world-leading High Energy Density science facilities, including high power lasers such as AWE's Orion facility and the US National Ignition Facility (NIF), and pulsed power facilities such as the Z machine, and XFELs.

These experiments provide data to exercise, validate, and improve our capability in modelling and understanding the physics of nuclear warhead design and performance. We also perform research with a broader aim to actively develop experimental approaches and techniques, to maintain and advance our scientific capabilities.

Location: We are located between Reading and Basingstoke, with onsite parking. There are good bus links between Reading, Basingstoke, and Newbury.

The successful applicant will need to be able to work from our Aldermaston site for the majority of the working week.

Package: 31,000 - 44,000 depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience.

Closing Date: 16th January 2024

If we receive an exceptionally high level of applications, this vacancy may close early, so don't delay, apply now!

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We work in small teams to design, plan, and deliver experimental campaigns. Experiments are often undertaken in collaboration with US partners or academic institutions, and there is extensive overlap with inertial fusion energy research.

Presentation of work at specialist conferences and external publication is encouraged where appropriate.

Depending on the role and individual there may be opportunities to spend time at universities for specialist training.

There may also be opportunity to spend an extended period in the US to support delivery of experimental campaigns.

You will be responsible for:

Developing, supporting, and executing experiments at AWE and international laser facilities, to test, underwrite and validate theoretical models and in-house physics codes

Using and developing existing or new computational tools to predict and analyse experimental data

Engagement with relevant communities across AWE

Contributing to interactions with international partners and external stakeholders in their field

Preparing detailed proposals and technical reports on experiments and their analysis

Participating in Review, Learn and Improve activities and implement the outcomes to ensure the continued development and implementation of best practice in the delivery of technical work

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

Degree in a scientific or STEM discipline, equivalent NQF level 6 qualification or equivalent experience

Working level of experience in undertaking technical research and conducting technical assessments to draw sound scientific conclusions

Conversant in the use of desk top computers and familiarity with standard IT products

Clear and concise communication approach, both oral and written

Good proactive, influencing, and interpersonal skills

Ability to prioritise a varied workload for self or a small team, ensuring timely delivery with minimum supervision

Methodical approach to complex problem solving using technical knowledge

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 - our employees have 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:

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.

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