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- Tasks: Lead plasma operations and research for fusion devices, ensuring smooth experimental campaigns.
- Company: Join UKAEA, a leader in fusion energy innovation, shaping the future of sustainable power.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, a strong pension scheme, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking fusion research with a collaborative and inclusive culture.
- Qualifications: PhD in physics or fusion engineering, with experience in tokamak operations and research leadership.
- Other info: UKAEA values diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
The predicted salary is between 51000 - 62000 £ per year.
Overview
Senior Plasma Operations Expert – Culham, UK. Full-time role with a salary of £56,596 (inclusive of Specialist Allowance) plus benefits. Division: Plasma Science and Fusion Operations. Department: Plasma Physics. Site Location: UKAEA Culham, Oxfordshire. Confirmed Grade: Level 5.
Company Description
UKAEA leads the way in realising fusion energy, partnering with industry and research for groundbreaking advancements. Our goal is to bring fusion electricity to the grid, supported by tomorrow\\\’s power stations. We valueInnovation, Commitment, Trust and Collaboration. As an employee, you will benefit from a range of generous rewards and development opportunities.
Benefits
- Outstanding defined benefit pension scheme
- Corporate bonus scheme up to 7% and a Relocation allowance (if eligible)
- Flexible working options, including family-friendly policies
- Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders
- Generous annual leave: 25 days + 3 days Christmas closure + 2.5 privilege days, plus UK bank holidays
- Career development opportunities
- Inclusive culture with equality and diversity commitments
Job Description
The salary for this role is £56,596 (inclusive of a Specialist Allowance). Onsite working is expected for 4 days each week; flexible working requests are supported. This role is based at Culham, Oxfordshire.
The role requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions and possibly a search of open source data.
The Role
As Senior Plasma Operations Expert, you will play a pivotal role in plasma operations activities for present and future fusion devices, including fusion power plants.
Key Accountabilities:
- Conduct and lead research in plasma operations and plasma physics within experimental campaigns in UKAEA programmes (e.g., MAST-U) and international facilities.
- Act as Responsible Officer for control or protection systems in present or future devices, as required.
- Be a member of appropriate forums as an expert in plasma operations.
- Operate fusion devices in control room roles.
- Contribute to design and development activities for existing and new devices (e.g., STEP), influencing the direction and execution of plasma operations with deep subject-matter expertise.
- Support UKAEA’s corporate strategy by providing plasma operations expertise and leading activities where appropriate.
- Collaborate with national and international partners to support the fusion programme as a plasma operations expert.
- Lead and work with internal and external collaborators as required.
- Manage plasma operations activities as needed, forecasting scientific needs, planning resources, preparing rosters, and delivering reports to panels and committees, including coordinating pools of control room staff and organising training.
- Participate in experimental programmes (e.g., WPTE EUROfusion) as part of experimental teams.
Qualifications
Essential:
- PhD (or equivalent experience) in physics or a fusion-related engineering field
- Experience of tokamak operations in a fusion device
- Good understanding of fusion physics
- Experience operating a tokamak in a control room role
- Proven ability to conduct independent research and lead research teams
- Excellent verbal and written communication and influencing skills
- A good team player with experience working in national and international teams
Additional Information
For a full list of benefits and to apply, select the apply button to be taken through to the UKAEA careers pages. UKAEA is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. If you require adjustments to compete fairly, please contact the talent team.
Please note that vacancies are generally advertised for 4 weeks and may close earlier if we receive a large number of applications.
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Senior Plasma Operations Expert employer: Physics World
Contact Detail:
Physics World Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Plasma Operations Expert
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the fusion energy sector. Attend conferences, workshops, or webinars related to plasma physics and fusion technology. Engaging with experts can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with UKAEA's current projects and initiatives. Understanding their ongoing research and development efforts will help you tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with tokamak operations in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of your contributions in control room roles and how you've led research teams in past projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your collaborative skills by highlighting experiences where you've worked with international teams. Emphasising your ability to communicate effectively across cultures can set you apart as a candidate who fits well within UKAEA's inclusive culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Plasma Operations Expert
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Plasma Operations Expert position. Understand the key accountabilities and qualifications required, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in plasma operations and fusion physics in your CV. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your expertise and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for fusion energy and your commitment to innovation and collaboration. Mention how your background and skills make you a perfect fit for the role and the company culture.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Physics World
✨Showcase Your Expertise
As a Senior Plasma Operations Expert, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of plasma physics and tokamak operations. Prepare to discuss your previous research and experiences in detail, highlighting how they relate to the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that assess your knowledge of fusion devices and operational protocols. Brush up on recent advancements in plasma operations and be ready to explain complex concepts clearly and concisely.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked with national and international teams. Highlight your ability to lead and influence others in a research setting.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with UKAEA's values of Innovation, Commitment, Trust, and Collaboration. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of advancing fusion energy.
