At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in nuclear engineering and collaborate with industry partners.
- Company: University of Derby, a leader in nuclear research and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and opportunities for impactful research.
- Other info: Work closely with Rolls-Royce and contribute to industry-aligned PhD programmes.
- Why this job: Shape the future of nuclear engineering and make a real difference in the sector.
- Qualifications: Strong research background and ability to inspire teams and secure funding.
The predicted salary is between 58225 - 88467 € per year.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Nuclear Engineering
The UK nuclear sector is entering a period of transformational growth, with national strategies highlighting a substantial and urgent skills gap in nuclear engineering. At the University of Derby, we are committed to being part of the solution. The University of Derby has a clear ambition to build a distinctive, high-impact nuclear engineering research agenda that delivers national and international benefit.
Significant investment in three senior academic research appointments (one Professor and two Associate Professors) will strengthen research leadership, build critical mass, and shape future capability across nuclear power generation, product and systems engineering. The emphasis is on applied, industry-aligned research that addresses industry-focused challenges, attracts external funding, and delivers tangible impact for the nuclear sector. This research agenda is closely integrated with advanced research training and innovation. It builds on established success with Rolls‑Royce through the Nuclear Skills Academy, degree apprenticeships, and specialist MSc provision. Research excellence will underpin education, skills development, and workforce innovation, positioning the institution as a trusted leader in nuclear research and innovation.
Growing our partnership with BAE Systems, the role will support industry‑embedded PhD programmes, collaboration with in‑house nuclear training teams, and accredited programmes.
Areas of Specialism:
- Advanced Materials, Manufacturing and Prototyping
- Thermal Hydraulics
Your Impact:
- Provide strategic leadership of research across the School and with key industry partners.
- Strengthen and expand external partnerships, securing funding through collaborative research and development initiatives.
- Supervise PhD students funded through University and industry partnerships.
- Contribute to postgraduate teaching, including expert seminars and dissertation supervision on the MSc in Nuclear Product Engineering for Power Generation.
About You:
- A strong portfolio of high-quality peer‑reviewed publications.
- Sustained success in securing external research funding.
- The ability to inspire academic teams, influence industry partners, and drive impactful innovation.
We also welcome applications from candidates with predominantly industrial backgrounds, where the scope, scale, and impact of achievements clearly demonstrate senior expertise.
Salary: £58,225 to £88,467 per annum (for exceptional performers, there is scope for further progression of up to £101,738 per annum).
Additional Requirements:
These roles are employed by the University of Derby but work in partnership with Rolls‑Royce Submarines Ltd; therefore, in order to undertake the position, an individual must hold Security Clearance (SC) without any caveats to that clearance. Rolls‑Royce will support the application for SC if the individual does not currently already have this in place. Due to the nature of work that Rolls‑Royce Submarines Ltd conducts and the protection of certain assets, a person must be a UK national, or in MoD‑approved cases, a dual national from a non‑ITAR country.
Professor/Associate Professor in Nuclear Engineering employer: EURAXESS Ireland
The University of Derby is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of nuclear engineering. With significant investment in research leadership and strong partnerships with industry leaders like Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems, employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, competitive salaries, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the future of nuclear power generation. Our commitment to applied research and education ensures that you will be at the forefront of addressing critical industry challenges while contributing to a skilled workforce for the UK nuclear sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Professor/Associate Professor in Nuclear Engineering
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the nuclear engineering field! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues or mentors. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or industry leaders, make sure to highlight your research achievements and any successful projects you've led. We want to see how you can bring value to the University of Derby and the nuclear sector!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework on the University of Derby and its partnerships, especially with Rolls-Royce. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals in nuclear engineering. Practising common interview questions can also help you feel more confident when the time comes.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Professor/Associate Professor in Nuclear Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the role. Highlight your experience in nuclear engineering and any relevant partnerships you've built. We want to see how you can contribute to our ambitious research agenda!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t hold back on sharing your successes! Include details about your high-quality publications and any external funding you've secured. This is your chance to shine and show us what you bring to the table.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application efficiently!
How to prepare for a job interview at EURAXESS Ireland
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and publications. Be ready to discuss how your work aligns with the University of Derby's ambitions in nuclear engineering and how it can contribute to their strategic goals.
✨Showcase Your Industry Connections
Highlight any partnerships or collaborations you've had with industry leaders, especially in the nuclear sector. Discuss how these relationships can help secure funding and enhance the university's research agenda.
✨Prepare for Teaching Discussions
Since the role involves postgraduate teaching, be prepared to talk about your teaching philosophy and methods. Think of examples where you've successfully supervised students or led seminars, particularly in areas related to nuclear product engineering.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
The position requires strategic leadership, so come ready with examples of how you've inspired teams or driven innovation in previous roles. Show how you can influence both academic and industry partners to achieve impactful results.
