This Research Associate (RA) will form an integral part of the Actinides Centre of Excellence (ACE), which is a collaboration between the University of Manchester and AWE, and has the intention to grow by the inclusion of other national partners and universities. This role represents an exciting opportunity by helping to establish ACE (https://www.awe.co.uk/2026/06/awe-and-the-university-of-manchester-launch-actinides-centre-of-excellence/) - a national hub of collaborative research activity that aims to progress fundamental and low TRL Actinide Science & Innovation, intends to attract and train cohorts of future nuclear talent, and create tomorrow's Subject Matter Experts. This role is part of a commitment from both the University of Manchester and AWE to advancing actinides research and innovation across thematic areas including materials recycle and solution process chemistry, and will play a pivotal part in shaping our future research landscape in nuclear science and engineering.
The RA will be responsible for undertaking experimental research in actinide process chemistry and chemical engineering to assist in the development, optimization and sustainability of advanced actinide recovery processes. This role provides the opportunity to work across multiple projects over the term of the post delivering high priority actinide research needs for AWE as determined by the ACE management team. Experimental research activities are likely to vary from, for example, understanding actinide speciation in a wide range of solution process conditions to undertaking scale up experiments to support the design of advanced actinide recovery processes. Processes of interest may involve (but are not limited to):
- Dissolution
- Ion exchange/adsorption
- Solvent extraction, precipitation
- Electrodeposition operations;
across primarily aqueous systems but could also involve organic and molten salt media. It is expected this research associate will closely engage with the other ACE research focus areas in analysis & spectroscopy and solid state science, and contribute to the growth of ACE activities with the involvement of new partners and expanded research interests. This role, therefore, offers a significant opportunity to develop a wide range of high-level skills and expertise providing a clear pathway to become a highly valued subject matter expert for the nuclear sector.
(Grades 6-9)
Our benefits include:
Generous employer contribution pension
29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
Ride to work and EV car scheme available
For more information, please see University of Manchester Benefits . You can also find information on our Flexible and Hybrid working here .
We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community where we are able, within the law, to question and test received wisdom, express new ideas and explore controversial or unpopular topics and opinions. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy .
Enquiries about the role, shortlisting and interviews
Name: Clint Sharrad (Deputy Director of the Dalton Nuclear Institute)
Email: clint.a.sharrad@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries and administrative support
recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk
Technical and job portal support
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
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Research Associate (Actinide Materials Recycle and Solution Process Chemistry) in Manchester employer: Diversity Dashboard
As a Facilities Assistant with the City of Edinburgh Council, you will enjoy secure and flexible employment in a supportive environment that values your contributions. With opportunities for training and development, you can grow your career while making a positive impact on your community by maintaining essential buildings. The council promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce, ensuring that all employees feel respected and valued.
