At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct research in plasma operations and support fusion energy projects.
- Company: Join the UK Atomic Energy Authority, a leader in clean energy innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent pension, flexible working, and diverse team culture.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of fusion energy and collaborate globally.
- Qualifications: PhD in physics or fusion engineering and a passion for research.
The predicted salary is between 43702 - 43702 £ per year.
The salary for this role is £43,702 (inclusive of a Specialist Allowance). Onsite working is expected for 4 days a week, however, we actively support requests for flexible working.
This role can be based at any of the following sites: Culham, Oxfordshire.
This role requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions and possibly a search of open source data.
Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to make a difference? Join our team and contribute to the future of fusion energy. As a Plasma Operations Physicist, you will play a pivotal role in plasma operations activities in present and future fusion devices, including fusion power plants. You will join a world class team and support MAST-U operations, contribute to the operations of future machines such as STEP, and travel to other plasma machines around the world to learn and share operational knowledge.
The job holder is expected to develop an area of expertise with tokamak and plasma operations while also developing a general understanding of how future machines will operate in their full life cycle. Experience in areas such (but not restricted to) plasma control, diagnostics, auxiliary heating, plasma physics, modelling or other operational areas (e.g. accelerators, intense lasers) would be ideal candidates for this role.
Job Responsibilities:
- Conduct research in plasma operations and plasma physics in the experimental campaigns in UKAEA programmes, such as MAST-U or international facilities.
- Support the Responsible Officers of control or protection systems in present or future devices, as required.
- Attend appropriate forums, as an expert in plasma operations.
- Learn and perform operational control room roles.
- Work together with UKAEA specialists in the design and development activities for existing and new devices, such as STEP.
- Support experts in providing advice on plasma operations that influences UKAEA’s corporate strategy.
- Support plasma operations activities led by the plasma operations experts and internal UKAEA committees and panels.
- Take part in external collaborations where appropriate.
- Participate in experimental programmes (e.g. WPTE EURO fusion) as appropriate, as part of experimental teams.
Salary: £43,702 (inclusive of Specialist Allowance) + excellent benefits including outstanding pension.
Essential Requirements:
- PhD (or equivalent experience) in physics or fusion-related engineering field.
- Desire to develop skills in fusion operations.
- Understanding of fusion physics.
- Readiness to conduct research and take part in research teams.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- A good team player ready to work in national and international teams.
UK Atomic Energy Authority is committed to being accessible. Please email talent@ukaea.uk if you have any questions or require help or adjustments to compete on a fair basis, for example, changes to the way we interview or share information.
Please note that vacancies are generally advertised for 4 weeks but may close earlier if we receive a large number of applications.
Plasma Operations Physicist employer: Fusion Energy Base
The UK Atomic Energy Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of fusion energy while working in a collaborative and innovative environment. Located in Culham, Oxfordshire, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, a competitive salary, and outstanding pension schemes, alongside a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. With ample opportunities for professional growth and involvement in cutting-edge research, this role as a Plasma Operations Physicist promises a meaningful and rewarding career path.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Plasma Operations Physicist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the fusion energy field on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your plasma physics knowledge and recent advancements in fusion technology. Show us you're not just a candidate, but a passionate expert ready to contribute!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it's explaining complex concepts or discussing your research, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. We want to see how you can share your expertise with the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining our mission for clean energy.
We think you need these skills to ace Plasma Operations Physicist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Plasma Operations Physicist role. Highlight your relevant experience in plasma physics, diagnostics, and any research you've conducted. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about fusion energy and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We’re all about collaboration here at UKAEA. In your application, mention experiences where you’ve worked in teams, especially in international settings. It’s important for us to know you can thrive in diverse groups!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our awesome benefits!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fusion Energy Base
✨Know Your Plasma Physics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of plasma physics and fusion operations. Be ready to discuss your PhD research and how it relates to the role. Showing a deep understanding of tokamak systems and operational control will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role requires collaboration with both national and international teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before, especially in research settings. Highlight your communication skills and readiness to contribute to group efforts.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to plasma control, diagnostics, and auxiliary heating. Review relevant literature and be prepared to discuss your experience with experimental campaigns or any related projects. This will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the future of fusion energy and the specific projects at UKAEA. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation's mission, making you stand out as a candidate.
