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- Tasks: Contribute to vital projects ensuring UK safety and security as an Undergraduate Scientist.
- Company: Join AWE, a leader in national security and innovation.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £23,500, plus benefits and a welcome bonus.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining valuable industry experience.
- Qualifications: Pursuing a degree in Physics or related fields.
- Other info: Exciting one-year placement with opportunities for growth.
The predicted salary is between 23500 - 32900 £ per year.
Starting salary £23,500 + plus benefits and welcome bonus Office based in Aldermaston, nr Reading, Berkshire.
We are offering a rewarding and exciting one-year placement as an Undergraduate Scientist at AWE – a role where you will make a genuine contribution to keeping the UK safe and secure.
Entry Requirements
We are interested in applications from candidates working towards a degree in:
- Physics (Theoretical & Applied, Mathematics, Data Science, Structural Engineers, Computer Science
- Before starting with the business, you will need to be able to provide evidence that you have attained a minimum of a 2:2 in your degree so far by August 2026.
- You must be able to Join AWE in August 2026. We recruit on a rolling basis which means as soon as our positions have been filled, we will close.
What to Expect on the Programme
As an Undergraduate student within our physics function you will be working within a small team to apply your skills and knowledge to support the full lifecycle of warhead components and technologies. We have a diverse range of teams who work to support the delivery of our mission that focus on; Radiation detection measurements and analysis, photon, electron and neutron modelling codes e.g. MCNP, Simulating and measuring material properties in exotic states of matter such as those found in the centre of stars and planets, developing new and novel computational algorithms to solve physics problems and complex mathematical assessment to name just a few!
During the programme, youll focus mainly on one or two projects or areas, gaining a deep insight into the work that is done. Youll be supported by a line manager and a mentor, who will help you to navigate your time with us and support you in developing the skills to build your career within the defence industry.
Your on-programme learning will combine a corporate induction to help you find your feet, on-job training and some classroom-based or online learning depending on your role.
Alongside this, your off-programme learning will include being part in an undergraduate group project team focusing on a business deliverable. We will give you every opportunity to network with other undergraduates, as well as the graduate community, so you can start building your business contacts at AWE.
Benefits:
- £23,500 salary
- Holiday entitlement of 270 hours of leave annually including bank holidays
- Excellent work/life balance and a vibrant and welcoming grad social scene
- 9-day working fortnight – so every other Friday off
- A salary-sacrifice benefit scheme
- A welcome payment
- Potential to secure a Graduate role for when you finish university, subject to availability
- Access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending across retail, hospitality and leisure
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to our Occupational Health Services
Application Process:
Our process is designed to be simple, fair and transparent:
- Online Application Opens 15th September. Explore the option and apply for one pathway that best suits your interests and goals.
- Online Tests If shortlisted, youll complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive assessments. Practice materials will be available to ensure you know what to expect.
- Virtual Assessment Centre Successful candidates will be invited to virtual ACs running NovDec 2025, with pre-assessment webinars to guide you.
You must be a British National, able to start in August 2026, and eligible for security clearance. Applications close on Friday 24th October, but will close earlier if we receive enough applications, so apply early.
Support & Inclusion:
We welcome diverse applicants and strive to create a workplace where differences are recognised and celebrated. We encourage requests for reasonable adjustments if required, to ensure you feel able to perform your best. Any information you share will be used only to support you through the process in line with GDPR.
Why AWE?:
- Build leadership skills, self-awareness, and teamwork.
- Join a vibrant early careers community with events, ERGs and networking opportunities.
- Benefit from continual support: a line manager, pathway lead, and buddy to guide your journey.
Who Were Looking For:
Curious, problem-solvers with integrity, resilience, and a collaborative mindset. Youll thrive if youre eager to grow and ready to apply your skills to real-world challenges.
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Applied & Theoretical Scientist - Year in Industry employer: Atomic Weapons Establishment
Contact Detail:
Atomic Weapons Establishment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Applied & Theoretical Scientist - Year in Industry
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's alumni or professors who might have connections at AWE. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching AWE and their projects. Show us you’re genuinely interested in how your skills can contribute to keeping the UK safe and secure.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! As an Applied & Theoretical Scientist, you'll need to think on your feet. Try mock interviews with friends or use online resources to sharpen your responses.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Applied & Theoretical Scientist - Year in Industry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of an Applied & Theoretical Scientist. Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this placement and how you can contribute to AWE. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use examples from your studies or projects to show how you’ve applied your knowledge in practical situations. This helps us see your potential as a scientist in action.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Atomic Weapons Establishment
✨Know Your Physics
Brush up on your physics knowledge, especially the areas relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss your coursework and any projects you've worked on that relate to applied and theoretical science.
✨Show Your Passion for Safety and Security
AWE is all about keeping the UK safe and secure. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for this mission during the interview. Share any experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to safety in scientific practices.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the placement, team dynamics, and what a typical day looks like. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Practice Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect some technical questions or problem-solving scenarios during the interview. Practise explaining your thought process clearly and logically, as this will showcase your analytical skills and how you approach challenges.
