Research Associate: Atomistic Irradiation Simulations in Sheffield

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 used 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 should have experience performing atomistic simulations, an interest in developing analytical models, and proficiency in using scripting languages for data analysis. You will be a keen communicator, interested in supervising postgraduate 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 emerging patterns of damage and how damage accumulates over time to high doses.
• Create and share tools that encapsulate the insight from the simulation and analysis.
• Conduct and disseminate 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 so that your research addresses programme priorities.
• Assist in the supervision of graduate students (PhD, MSc) and undergraduate project students.
• Write scientific reports and articles for publication, typically publishing 1‑2 journal or conference papers per year and may also involve writing technical reports for sponsoring organisations.
• Make presentations on the research work at the university, national fusion research networks and 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:

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and are respected. Even if your past experience does not match perfectly with this role’s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in your application statement.

Criteria:

• Essential: 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 computational simulation of materials.
• Essential: Expertise in simulating materials at the atomic scale.
• Essential: Experience running simulations in a high‑performance computing environment.
• Essential: Expertise in analysing simulation data using scripting languages such as MATLAB and/or Python.
• Essential: 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 with a wide range of people, including staff and students at all levels, and as part of a team.
• Essential: Demonstrated ability to write or contribute to publications in scientific journals.
• Essential: Proven organisational skills and an ability to work with minimal direction, planning and prioritising own workload.
• Desirable: Experience of simulation of materials for applications in the nuclear industry.
• Desirable: Understanding of degradation mechanisms in nuclear materials.

Further information:

• Grade: 7
• Salary: £38,784
• Work arrangement: Full-time
• Duration: 36 months starting 01/08/2026
• Line manager: UKAEA Chair in Fusion Materials
• Direct reports: N/A

Benefits:

• A 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.
• Staff networks for social interaction, peer support and personal development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond.
• Commitment to development with access to learning and mentoring schemes, integrated with 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

Equality, diversity and inclusion:

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.

For informal enquiries about this job contact Prof. Chris Race, UKAEA Chair in Fusion Materials.