Research Associate

Rolls-royce; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A research institution in the nuclear sector is seeking a post-doctoral researcher to develop methodologies for fuel performance modelling of dispersion fuels. The role includes supervising PhD students and dissemination of findings to relevant teams. Ideal candidates hold a PhD in nuclear engineering or a related field and possess strong analytical and teamwork skills. This opportunity offers a competitive benefits package, including a market-leading pension scheme and exceptional annual leave entitlement.

Benefits

Market-leading pension scheme

Employee health and wellbeing services

Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement

Additional paid closure over Christmas

Local and national discounts

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent experience in nuclear fuel engineering.
• Strong analytical and data-analysis skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop data and methodologies for fuel performance modelling.
• Support and supervise PhD students.
• Disseminate key findings to relevant teams.
• Collaborate with the nuclear fuels group at Manchester.

Skills

Analytical skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in nuclear fuel engineering or related field

Job description

Role Overview

The University of Manchester hosts a Rolls‑Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in the field of Nuclear Science and Engineering. This UTC has expanded to support developments in robust nuclear fuels under a Rolls‑Royce Chair position held by Prof. Turner. The programme focuses on dispersion fuel technologies that comprise fissile uranium kernels dispersed within an inert matrix. These fuels address national challenges such as meeting Net‑Zero targets, defence through the nuclear submarine programme, and space exploration. Rolls‑Royce has funded a three‑year post‑doctoral research role to develop data and methodologies for fuel performance modelling of dispersion fuels, linking with the wider fuels programme. The role also includes knowledge exchange into Rolls‑Royce Submarines and informal supervision of PhD students funded by Rolls‑Royce, with dissemination of key findings to relevant teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop data and methodologies for fuel performance modelling of dispersion fuels.
• Support and informally supervise PhD students funded by Rolls‑Royce in this area.
• Disseminate key findings to Rolls‑Royce Submarines teams and other external stakeholders.
• Model complex systems and measure key properties to underpin these models using representative fuel samples.
• Maintain and renew security clearance for the duration of the position.
• Collaborate closely with the DoRN team and the wider nuclear fuels group at Manchester, providing leadership, training and support to PhD students.
• Develop and pursue independent research ideas in the field of nuclear fuel performance and modelling.

Qualifications & Requirements

• UK national, required to undergo and maintain security clearance.
• PhD or equivalent experience in nuclear fuel engineering, materials science, or related field with expertise in experimental and modelling approaches.
• Strong analytical, experimental design, and data‑analysis skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to craft reports for both academic and industrial audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively within multi‑disciplinary teams and guide junior researchers.
• Commitment to a three‑year post‑doctoral research appointment.

Benefits

• Market‑leading pension scheme.
• Employee health and wellbeing services, including an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays.
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period.
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers.

Equal Opportunity

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit. Our University is positive about flexible working - hybrid arrangements may be considered.

Contact

Name: Professor Joel Turner