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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to design and fabricate a 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.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking fusion power research with world-class facilities and support.
- Qualifications: PhD in Physics or Nuclear Engineering and experience with neutronics and radiometrics required.
- Other info: Position funded until March 2026, starting February 2025.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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 the 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. Find out more about the School here 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
Find out about more of our employee benefits and life at Lancaster on our website – an informal chat about the role, please contact Dr. Samuel Murphy, Senior Lecturer in Nuclear Engineering – #J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior Research Associate in Nuclear Engineering 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
✨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 readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former employees of Lancaster University's School of Engineering on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide you with valuable insights into the team dynamics and project expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your problem-solving skills through examples from your past research or projects. Think of specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, especially in contexts related to nuclear engineering or handling radioactive materials.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the TriBreed project and its objectives thoroughly. Understanding the project's goals and how your background aligns with them will allow you to articulate your fit for the role more effectively during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Nuclear Engineering
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, particularly in neutronics, radiometrics, and handling radioactive materials. Emphasize any specific projects or research that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that connects your background and skills to the role's requirements. Discuss your problem-solving abilities and organizational skills, and express your enthusiasm for working within a multidisciplinary team.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your experience with tools like OpenMC or MCNP, and any relevant techniques such as gamma ray spectrometry. This will demonstrate your technical proficiency and suitability for the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your PhD research and how it relates to the Tritium Breeder project. Highlight your experience with neutronics and radiometrics, as well as any hands-on work with radioactive materials.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of past challenges you've faced in your research and how you approached solving them. This will show your ability to think critically and adaptively, which is crucial for the role.
✨Familiarize Yourself with the Project
Research the TriBreed project and its objectives thoroughly. Understanding the project's goals and the technologies involved will allow you to ask insightful questions and demonstrate your genuine interest.
✨Emphasize Team Collaboration
Since you'll be part of a multidisciplinary team, share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others. Highlight your communication skills and how you contribute to a positive team environment.
