Theoretical Scientist

Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE); Aldermaston; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Theoretical Scientist to join their Radiation Science Group. This role is perfect for a Physicist eager to develop physics codes and model radiation interactions. You'll engage with advanced radiation effects tools, utilizing Monte Carlo and deterministic transport techniques. The position offers a unique opportunity to work on High-Performance Computing platforms, contributing to innovative experimental programs. With a flexible working pattern and generous benefits, this role promises a rewarding career in a dynamic environment, ideal for those passionate about physics and technology.

Benefits

9-day working fortnight

Contributory pension scheme

Full pay maternity leave

Full pay paternity leave

Professional development opportunities

Employee Assistance Programme

Life Assurance

Discounts on everyday expenses

Special Leave policies

Qualifications

• Strong degree in Physics or related field, focusing on modeling or code development.
• Experience with radiation transport codes and programming languages.

Responsibilities

• Develop physics codes and model radiation interactions with matter.
• Utilize High-Performance Computing platforms for core products.

Skills

Physics

Modeling

Code Development

Python

C++

Monte Carlo Techniques

Deterministic Transport Techniques

Linux

High-Performance Computing

Education

Degree in Physics or related field

Tools

MCNP

OpenMC

Geant4

Job description

Job Description

Theoretical Scientist

Closing Date: 8th May 2025

Location: RG7 4PR, between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking.

Due to the classified nature of the work involved, limited opportunities for remote work are available. The successful candidate will primarily work on-site at AWE Aldermaston.

Package

Junior Scientist (recent graduates): £29,490 - £37,000

Experienced Scientist (PhD or postgraduate experience): £38,020 - £47,500

Working Pattern

AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. Flexible working requests are considered; please specify your preferred pattern on your application.

Role Overview

AWE seeks a Theoretical Scientist to join the Environments and Transport (EAT) Team within the Radiation Science Group (RSG).

This role is ideal for a Physicist interested in developing physics codes and modeling radiation interactions with matter. The successful candidate will work on radiation effects tools, applying Monte Carlo and deterministic transport techniques, and developing physics codes using modern software practices.

You will utilize AWE's High-Performance Computing platforms for core products and experimental programs, supporting Finite Element Analysis with meshing tools.

Candidate Profile

Essential:

• A strong degree in Physics or a related field, with a focus on modeling or code development.
• Willingness to travel overseas for workshops and peer reviews.

Desirable:

• Understanding of radiation interactions with matter.
• Experience with radiation transport codes like MCNP, OpenMC, or Geant4.
• Experience in physics code development and programming languages such as Python or C++.
• Familiarity with Linux and HPC environments.

Additional qualities include the ability to work calmly under changing priorities, managing workload independently, with initiative, enthusiasm, and a flexible approach to meet tight deadlines.

Benefits

• 9-day working fortnight with every other Friday off and 270 hours of annual leave.
• Market-leading contributory pension scheme (9%-13%).
• Family-friendly policies including 39 weeks full pay maternity leave and 4 weeks full pay paternity leave.
• Professional development opportunities, including funding for relevant professional memberships.
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
• Life Assurance (4x annual salary).
• Discounts on various everyday expenses.
• Special Leave policies for volunteering, public service, and caring responsibilities.

For full details, visit the 'Working at AWE' page and the 'AWE Benefits Guide' on our website.