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- Tasks: Join our Modelling Team to tackle real-world challenges in materials and chemical modelling.
- Company: AWE is a leading organisation focused on nuclear deterrent and security programmes.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 9-day working fortnight, flexible hours, and a market-leading pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of cutting-edge research while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in Chemistry, Mathematics, or related fields; experience in molecular modelling techniques required.
- Other info: Opportunities for hybrid working and professional development funding available.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: RG7 4PR, located between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking.
Package:
- Junior Modelling Scientist (recent PhD graduates): £36,640 - £40,000 (depending on your suitability and level of experience)
- Experienced Modelling Scientist (graduates with post-grad / Industry experience): £40,000 - £50,000 (depending on your suitability and level of experience)
Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will consider flexible working requests so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern on your application. Opportunities for hybrid working in some roles.
Let us introduce the role: The Modelling Team in Materials and Analytical Science (MAS) at AWE is looking for Scientists at various stages of their careers across Materials, Mathematical and Chemical Modelling disciplines to support research and development within a wide range of technically challenging projects. For our important mission to support current and future nuclear deterrent, security, and threat reduction programmes, we have new opportunities available in the Materials Modelling discipline.
The Materials Modelling team develop materials models and provide a predictive capability for materials properties, whilst applying new methodologies for new materials selection. Furthermore, the role involves finding modelling solutions to difficult real-world testing problems, coordinating with external technical partners on cutting-edge research projects and supporting the System modelling and simulation capabilities for AWE's Programmes.
Who are we looking for? We are interested in hearing from candidates who can demonstrate knowledge or experience in several of the following areas:
- A PhD in Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, or other numerate discipline;
- Experience in constructing material models of representative systems with particular focus on molecular reaction chemistry;
- Knowledge of Materials Science and/or Polymer Science;
- Experience with a range of atomistic and molecular modelling techniques including (but not limited to) Quantum Chemistry, Density Functional Theory (DFT), Molecular Mechanics and Dynamics (MM/MD), Monte Carlo (MC), Multiscale and Mesoscale modelling;
- Experience using computational chemistry codes/software packages such as but not limited to Gaussian, NWChem, ONETEP, LAMMPS, VASP, and BIOVIA Materials Studio;
- Demonstrable understanding in areas related to molecular modelling such as quantum chemistry, statistical mechanics and chemical reaction kinetics;
- Familiarity with High Performance Computing (HPC) architectures and the Unix/Linux environment;
- Programming and/or scripting experience in Python/C++/Shell/MATLAB;
- Knowledge of good software development practices including the use of tools to support this purpose such as GitLab;
- Able to work independently and unsupervised, as well as within a team to achieve common goals;
- Flexible, self-motivated and the ability to handle multiple tasks;
- Able to provide technical input within own field of expertise that can influence project, team or end user;
- Strong communication skills verbal and written.
You will need to have the ability to work calmly and constructively in a priority changing environment and be able to manage your own workload. You will also have initiative, enthusiasm, a flexible approach, and ability to work to tight deadlines.
Some reasons we think you'll love it here: AWE has a wide range of benefits to suit you. These include:
- 9-day working fortnight - meaning you get every other Friday off work, in addition to 270 hours of annual leave;
- Market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions);
- Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay;
- Opportunities for Professional Career Development including funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body;
- Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services;
- Life Assurance (4 x annual salary);
- Discounts - access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending;
- Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring.
The 'Working at AWE' page on our website is where you can find full details in the 'AWE Benefits Guide'.
Material and Chemical Modelling Scientists employer: Physics World
Contact Detail:
Physics World Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Material and Chemical Modelling Scientists
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific modelling techniques mentioned in the job description, such as Quantum Chemistry and Molecular Mechanics. Being able to discuss these methodologies confidently during an interview will demonstrate your expertise and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of materials and chemical modelling. Attend relevant conferences or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or mentors who might provide insights into the company culture at AWE and the specifics of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with computational chemistry software packages like Gaussian or LAMMPS. Be ready to share specific examples of projects where you successfully applied these tools, as this will highlight your practical skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated on projects or took initiative, as this aligns well with AWE's expectations for flexibility and teamwork.
We think you need these skills to ace Material and Chemical Modelling Scientists
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your PhD and any specific modelling techniques or software you have used, such as Quantum Chemistry or Molecular Mechanics.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only expresses your enthusiasm for the role but also demonstrates your understanding of AWE's mission. Mention how your background in materials science or computational chemistry can contribute to their projects.
Highlight Relevant Projects: Include specific examples of past projects or research that showcase your expertise in material modelling and computational techniques. This could involve discussing your experience with atomistic modelling or programming in Python.
Be Clear About Your Working Preferences: Since AWE is open to flexible working requests, clearly state your preferred working pattern in your application. This shows that you are proactive and considerate of work-life balance.
How to prepare for a job interview at Physics World
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with various modelling techniques and computational chemistry software. Highlight specific projects where you applied these skills, as this will demonstrate your practical knowledge and problem-solving abilities.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Materials Science
Make sure to articulate your knowledge in materials science and polymer science. Discuss any relevant research or coursework that showcases your understanding of material properties and their applications in real-world scenarios.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Scenarios
Since the role involves collaboration with external partners and team members, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams. Emphasise your communication skills and ability to contribute to group goals.
✨Express Your Flexibility and Initiative
AWE values self-motivated individuals who can handle multiple tasks. Be sure to convey your adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges, as well as any experiences where you've had to manage changing priorities effectively.
