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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to design and analyze a cutting-edge tritium breeder prototype.
- Company: Lancaster University is a leader in Nuclear Science and Engineering research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension scheme, and flexible benefits tailored to you.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research with a focus on fusion power and innovative technologies.
- Qualifications: PhD in Physics or Nuclear Engineering and experience with neutronics and radiometrics required.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 39105 - 45163 £ per year.
- 0057-25 Senior Research Associate in Nuclear Engineering
Senior Research Associate in Nuclear Engineering
School of Engineering
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £39,105 to £45,163 (Full time, indefinite with end date)
Closing Date: Sunday 23 February 2025
Interview Date: Monday 03 March 2025
Reference: 0057-25
Overview of the project
Lancaster University’s School of Engineering is seeking to appoint a Research Associate for the Tritium Breeder (TriBreed) project. This is a full-time post with funding until 31/03/2026. We would ideally like someone to start in February 2025.
The TriBreed project is part of UK Atomic Energy Authority’s £200m Lithium Breeding Tritium Innovation (LIBRTI) programme that aims to develop fusion powerplant-scale tritium breeding. TriBreed, led by Lancaster University in collaboration with Oxford University and Kyoto Fusioneering, focuses on developing a prototype tritium breeder blanket device utilizing advanced octalithium ceramic breeder materials. The TriBreed prototype will be irradiated using a new neutron facility at University of Birmingham, where the high neutron flux will allow more precise measurement of tritium production enabling validation of neutron transport codes. TriBreed will also demonstrate fabrication of increased quantities of octalithium ceramics and identify tritium retention supporting microstructural optimisation.
Role responsibilities
As part of a friendly, multidisciplinary team of 14 people, you will be responsible for:
- design and fabrication of the TriBreed prototype and its integrated diagnostic system
- post-irradiation analysis using gamma ray spectrometry and ultra-low level liquid scintillation
- analysis of tritium retention in samples using Lancaster’s Accelerator Mass Spectrometer
- developing decommissioning strategy for the TriBreed experiment
About you
We are keen to hear from candidates who have:
- a PhD (or close to completion) in Physics or Nuclear Engineering
- experience of neutronics (OpenMC or MCNP) and radiometrics (e.g. gamma ray spectrometry/ultra-low level liquid scintillation counting)
- a background in handling radioactive materials
- great problem-solving and organisational skills
Why work with us
This study is located within the School of Engineering where 95% of our research has been rated world leading or internationally excellent. Lancaster plays host to one of the UK’s leading Nuclear Science and Engineering research groups, with over 8 academic staff and three nationally important facilities, including Lancaster’s Accelerator Mass Spectrometer.
Lancaster University provides an environment that strongly supports the needs of each employee, promoting a healthy work-life balance. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including:
- competitive salary with annual reviews
- generous employer pension scheme
- a family-friendly approach to those with parental or caring responsibilities
- additional flexible benefits to suit your needs and interests
And as one of our research team you will benefit from:
- our varied organisational development programme to expand your research skills
- 10 researcher development day entitlement under the Researcher Development Concordat
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Dr. Samuel Murphy, Senior Lecturer in Nuclear Engineering –
Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based.
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
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Senior Research Associate in Nuclear Engineering - 0057-25 employer: Lancaster University
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate in Nuclear Engineering - 0057-25
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific technologies and methodologies mentioned in the job description, such as OpenMC or MCNP for neutronics. Being able to discuss these tools confidently during your interview will demonstrate your expertise and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former employees of Lancaster University's School of Engineering on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide you with insider insights about the team culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with radioactive materials and any relevant safety protocols. Highlighting your understanding of handling such materials will show that you are not only qualified but also safety-conscious, which is crucial in nuclear engineering.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the TriBreed project and its objectives thoroughly. Being able to articulate how your skills and experiences align with the project's goals will set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Nuclear Engineering - 0057-25
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Familiarize yourself with the TriBreed project and its objectives. Highlight your understanding of tritium breeding and fusion powerplant-scale developments in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects relevant experience in Physics or Nuclear Engineering, particularly in neutronics and radiometrics. Emphasize any hands-on experience with radioactive materials and problem-solving skills.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that connects your background to the role's responsibilities. Discuss your PhD work and how it aligns with the goals of the TriBreed project, showcasing your passion for nuclear engineering.
Prepare for the Interview: If selected for an interview, be ready to discuss your technical expertise and previous projects. Prepare questions about the team dynamics and the specific challenges of the TriBreed project to demonstrate your interest.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Understand the Project
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the TriBreed project and its objectives. Familiarize yourself with the specifics of tritium breeding and the technologies involved, such as octalithium ceramic materials and neutron transport codes.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your PhD research and any relevant experience in neutronics and radiometrics. Highlight specific projects or tasks where you've handled radioactive materials or conducted similar analyses.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples that showcase your problem-solving abilities, especially in complex engineering scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in past projects and how you overcame them.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the project's future, and the specific responsibilities of the role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
