Graduate Chemist in Aston-on-Trent

As a Chemistry Graduate you will have the opportunity to be part of some of the biggest, most interesting and challenging projects facing the nuclear industry today. Our chemists provide both practical and theoretical support to projects across many aspects of the nuclear life cycle in both the civil and defence sectors, in the UK and worldwide. We provide chemistry support to projects including nuclear new build (both fission and fusion reactors), design of the next generation of nuclear reactors, supporting the UK operational nuclear fleet, nuclear decommissioning, and nuclear propulsion.

Your role could include providing analytical chemistry and radiochemistry support to our clients from our laboratories, commissioning and operating novel rigs to inform solutions to chemistry challenges faced by our clients or providing desk-based chemistry consultancy and regulatory support to support our clients across the nuclear life cycle. We apply modern science in new and different ways; and help to develop new, cleaner, safer, or more efficient means of producing and harnessing nuclear energy to help combat climate change.

Responsibilities

• Provide analytical chemistry and radiochemistry support to clients in laboratory and field settings.
• Commission and operate novel rigs to develop solutions to chemistry challenges.
• Deliver desk‑based chemistry consultancy and regulatory support across the nuclear life cycle.
• Analyse experimental data, critically evaluate findings, and draw conclusions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and present results to scientific and non‑scientific audiences.
• Maintain and optimise laboratory processes and digital platforms used to support chemistry work.

Qualifications

• Completed an undergraduate or master’s degree (e.g., chemistry, radiochemistry, physical sciences) by summer 2026.
• Minimum 2:2 in your first degree.
• Have the permanent right to work in the UK.
• Strong communication skills – able to engage with scientific and non‑scientific personnel clearly and confidently.
• Ability to critically evaluate data and draw conclusions.
• Ability to work effectively within a team while also being independent.
• Excellent time‑management and organisational skills – able to juggle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Self‑starter who is flexible, adaptable to change, and eager to take ownership, ask questions, and seek out opportunities to grow.
• Some laboratory experience is beneficial; understanding of digital platforms and how they can be applied to solve chemistry problems is also desirable.
• Experience of providing consultancy to customers, though not necessarily in a scientific role, is a plus (e.g., retail or hospitality).

Benefits

• Exciting projects with a diverse team of UK and international experts.
• Comprehensive, structured training covering professional registration and personal development.
• Mentorship from seasoned professionals dedicated to your career goals.
• Career progression support post‑programme to continue developing experience and capabilities.
• Hybrid work‑style with a flexible hybrid working pattern.
• Free single medical cover and digital GP service.
• Reimbursement for relevant professional development and memberships.
• Inclusive and diverse work environment with Employee Networks.
• Focus on safety, health, and wellbeing with a supportive culture and mental health champion network.
• Opportunity to bring your whole, authentic self to work.

Application Process

Our Graduate Programme assumes that participants are commencing their first professional role post‑graduation. To qualify, you must have completed your first degree no earlier than the summer of 2024 and not worked in a similar professional role since graduation.