At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team to simulate irradiation damage in fusion materials.
- Company: Be part of the UKAEA Chair in Fusion Materials at a leading university.
- Benefits: 41 days annual leave, flexible working, and generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborate with top researchers and enjoy excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fusion research while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: PhD in computational simulation and expertise in atomic-scale material simulations.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 38784 £ per year.
Overview
This is an opportunity to join the fusion materials research group of the UKAEA Chair in Fusion Materials, Professor Chris Race, in the School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering. The group works closely with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) to develop physically-based modelling tools for predicting irradiation damage to materials in fusion reactors. In this role you will develop methods and tools for the prediction of primary irradiation damage in a range of reactor materials. You will have experience of performing atomistic simulations, an interest in developing analytical models, and proficiency in scripting languages for data analysis. You will be a keen communicator, interested in supervising post‑graduate students, and committed to reproducible research practices and open science.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Use classical molecular dynamics to undertake simulations of primary irradiation damage in a variety of materials.
- Develop and deploy novel analysis methods to characterise the emerging patterns of damage and how damage accumulates over time to high doses.
- Create and share tools encapsulating the insight from the simulation and analysis.
- Conduct and disseminate your research in line with best practice in open and reproducible research.
- Collaborate effectively with other researchers in the UK fusion community, including at UKAEA.
- Read academic papers, journals and textbooks and attend conferences to keep abreast of developments and interact regularly with UKAEA teams to ensure your research addresses the priorities of the fusion programme.
- Assist in the supervision of graduate students (PhD, MSc) and undergraduate project students.
- Write scientific reports and articles for publication, as and when required.
- Make presentations on the research work carried out to the university and national fusion research networks and at other selected scientific meetings.
- Plan and manage your own research activity and administrative duties in collaboration with others.
- Be aware of and manage risks in the work environment and their potential impact on your own work and that of others.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
- A first degree (BSc/Eng or MSc) or equivalent, in physics, mathematics, materials science, engineering or a related subject — Essential.
- A Ph.D. (or equivalent experience) in the area computational simulation of materials — Essential.
- Expertise in the simulation of materials at the atomic scale — Essential.
- Experience of running simulations in a high-performance computing environment — Essential.
- Expertise in the analysis of simulation data using scripting languages such as MATLAB and/or Python — Essential.
- A commitment to the principles of open science and sharing of research data — Essential.
- Excellent communication skills across a range of media and for a range of audiences — Essential.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills to work effectively with a wide range of people, including staff and students at all levels, and as part of a team — Essential.
- A demonstrated ability to write or contribute to publications in scientific journals — Essential.
- Proven organisational skills and an ability to work with minimal direction and supervision, planning and prioritising own workload — Essential.
- Experience of simulation of materials for applications in the nuclear industry — Desirable.
- An understanding of degradation mechanisms in nuclear materials — Desirable.
Further Information
- Grade: Grade 7
- Salary: £38,784
- Work arrangement: Full-time
- Duration: 36 months starting 01/08/2026
- Line manager: UKAEA Chair in Fusion Materials
- Contact: Prof. Chris Race, UKAEA Chair in Fusion Materials – christopher.race@sheffield.ac.uk
What we offer
- Minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holidays and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
- Generous pension scheme.
- A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
- Recognition awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
- A commitment to your development, access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways.
- A range of generous family‑friendly policies.
- Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies.
- Access to menopause support in the workplace.
- Paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more.
We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Closing Date: 15/06/2026
Research Associate (Simulation of Irradiation Damage in Fusion Materials) employer: Diversity Dashboard
Join a leading research group at the forefront of fusion materials science, where you will have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking work in a collaborative and supportive environment. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a generous benefits package including 41 days of annual leave, this role offers a unique chance to grow your career while making a meaningful impact in the field of nuclear materials research. The vibrant work culture encourages open communication and inclusivity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (Simulation of Irradiation Damage in Fusion Materials)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at UKAEA or in the fusion materials field. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio of your atomistic simulations and analytical models. When you get that interview, having tangible examples of your work can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be collaborating with various researchers and supervising students, being able to explain complex concepts clearly is key. Try explaining your research to a friend or family member.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at StudySmarter and contributing to the exciting work in fusion materials.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (Simulation of Irradiation Damage in Fusion Materials)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with atomistic simulations and scripting languages. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!
Show Your Passion for Research:In your application, let us know why you’re excited about fusion materials research. Share any experiences that demonstrate your commitment to open science and reproducible research practices. We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about their work!
Highlight Communication Skills:Since this role involves collaboration and supervision, make sure to emphasise your communication skills. Whether it’s writing scientific reports or presenting at conferences, we want to see how you can effectively share your research with others.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Diversity Dashboard
✨Know Your Simulations
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of classical molecular dynamics and atomistic simulations. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past work, especially how you've tackled primary irradiation damage in materials. This will show your expertise and passion for the subject.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience with scripting languages like MATLAB or Python. Think of a project where you developed novel analysis methods and be ready to explain your approach. This will demonstrate your technical skills and your ability to contribute to the team's research goals.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since excellent communication is key, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present your research or collaborate with others, so being able to convey your ideas clearly will set you apart. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your skills.
✨Emphasise Open Science Commitment
Be prepared to discuss your commitment to open science and reproducible research practices. Share examples of how you've shared data or collaborated with others in the past. This aligns with the values of the research group and shows that you're a team player who prioritises transparency.
