Dispersion Scientist

AWE's Radiological Assessment Team have a couple of exciting opportunities for Atmospheric Dispersion Scientists.

These roles support atmospheric dispersion and hazard prediction through experimental trials, scientific research, and software model development. These roles will provide the successful candidates with interesting and unique work on a daily basis.

Location: Aldermaston, West Berkshire (RG7 4PR). We are located between Reading and Basingstoke, with onsite parking.

Due to the classified nature of this role, it is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend a significant proportion of their time working on site, dependent on the work being undertaken.

Package: £38,000 - £60,000 (depending on suitability, qualifications, and level of experience).

A relocation package may be available - terms and conditions apply.

Closing Date: 30th September 2024

The Role:

The Systems Assessment Group (SAG) in the Physics function, is a multi-discipline group that provides mission effectiveness and weapon effects assessments to AWE and our government stakeholders. SAG also contribute to a range of capabilities in support of the UK's national nuclear security and treaty verification requirements.

The Radiological Assessment Team (RAT) within SAG covers a broad range encompassing radiation transport, atmospheric physics, and nuclear physics. We undertake fundamental scientific research, experimental trials, software model development and operational analysis to provide strategic answers directly into our customer community.

The role will consist of:

Leading, and participating in, the research and development of appropriate tools to predict the hazards associated with an atmospheric release of radiological material. This includes, but is not restricted to:

• Running and developing atmospheric dispersion models.

• Conducting consequence assessments for specific scenarios of interest

• Participation in experimental trials and collaboration with overseas organisations (overseas travel will be involved)

  • Research and modelling to determine source term parameters.

  • Planning and delivery of technical assessments using appropriate methodologies.

  • Engaging with technical communities across AWE.

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

  • Providing innovative and novel solutions to complex problems with a view to leading activities in their domain.

Who Are We Looking For?

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

• A PhD in physics, maths, computer science or an equivalent STEM-based discipline, or graduates with relevant post-graduate experience.
• Experience in code development for scientific programming.
• Experience in Python and/or MatLab.
• A methodical approach in undertaking technical research and conducting technical assessments to draw sound scientific conclusions.
• Communicate clearly both verbally and through technical reports.
• Be able to interpret, analyse and present data in a coherent and engaging manner.

A specialism in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous but not essential:

• Nuclear physics.
• Atmospheric physics.
• Atmospheric dispersion.
• Aerosolisation.
• Meteorology.
• Computational physics modelling.

What will you get from us?

AWE has a range of benefits to suit you. These include:

• 9-day working fortnight - every other Friday off work.
• 208 hours of annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
• A market leading contributory pension scheme - we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your own contribution.
• Life insurance of 4 x your annual salary.
• Consideration for flexible working arrangements so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle.
• 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.
• 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.

Important things you need to know:

• You must be a British citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 10 years.
• 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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