Applied Scientist & Theoretical Scientist

AWE plc; Spencers Wood; On-site; GBP 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense organization is offering a one-year placement for an Undergraduate Scientist in Spencers Wood. You'll support vital projects within the physics function, engaging in hands-on learning and collaboration. Ideal candidates are pursuing a degree in relevant fields and must be British Nationals eligible for security clearance. This position offers a competitive salary of £23,500 and numerous professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Salary of £23,500

270 hours of holiday

9-day working fortnight

Employee Assistance Programme

Access to retail savings

Qualifications

• Candidates must be working towards a degree with a minimum of 2:2 by August 2026.
• Must be a British National and eligible for security clearance.
• Problem-solvers with integrity and collaborative mindsets.

Responsibilities

• Support projects related to the lifecycle of warhead components.
• Contribute to radiation detection measurements and modelling activities.
• Engage in various on-programme learning activities.

Skills

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Critical thinking

Education

Degree in Physics, Mathematics, Data Science, or Computer Science

Job description

Overview

We are offering a rewarding one-year placement as an Undergraduate Scientist at AWE. In this role you will contribute to keeping the UK safe and secure. You will work within our physics function as part of a small team, applying your skills to support the full lifecycle of warhead components and technologies. Our teams cover areas such as radiation detection measurements and analysis, modelling codes (e.g. MCNP) for photons, electrons and neutrons, material properties in exotic states of matter, developing new computational algorithms, and performing complex mathematical assessments. During the programme, you will focus on one or two projects to gain deep insight, supported by a line manager and a mentor who will help you develop your career within the defence industry. Your on-programme learning will combine a corporate induction, on‑the‑job training, and classroom-based or online learning depending on your role. Off-programme learning includes taking part in an undergraduate group project with a business deliverable. You will have opportunities to network with other undergraduates and the graduate community at AWE.

1. Online Tests – If shortlisted, you will complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive assessments. Practice materials will be provided. 2. Virtual Assessment Centre – Successful candidates will be invited to virtual ACs running Nov–Dec 2025, with pre-assessment webinars to guide you.

Responsibilities

• Support projects within the physics function related to the lifecycle of warhead components and technologies.
• Contribute to radiation detection measurements and analysis, and modelling activities as part of a small team.
• Engage in on-programme learning activities, including corporate induction, on-job training, and role-specific learning.
• Collaborate in undergraduate group projects with business deliverables.

Qualifications

• Candidates working towards a degree in Physics (Theoretical & Applied), Mathematics, Data Science, Computer Science, or related fields.
• Must have attained a minimum of a 2:2 in your degree so far by August 2026 and be able to join AWE in August 2026.
• Must be a British National, able to start in August 2026, and eligible for security clearance.
• Curious, problem-solvers with integrity, resilience, and a collaborative mindset. Ability to grow and apply skills to real-world challenges.
• Accepted degree subjects: Physics, Mathematics, Information Science and Librarianship, Computer Science and Information Technology.

Rewards & Benefits

• Salary: £23,500
• Holiday entitlement: 270 hours of leave annually including bank holidays
• Excellent work/life balance and a vibrant grad social scene
• 9-day working fortnight – every other Friday off
• Salary-sacrifice benefit scheme
• Welcome payment
• Potential to secure a graduate role upon completion, subject to availability
• Access to savings on a wide range of spending across retail, hospitality and leisure
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Occupational Health Services

Why AWE?

• Build leadership skills, self-awareness and teamwork
• Join a vibrant early careers community with events, ERGs and networking opportunities
• Continual support from a line manager, pathway lead, and a buddy