Experimental Physicist Summer Placement in Harwell

Science and Technology Facilities Council

Salary: £23,493 per annum

Contract Type: Fixed Term – 6 to 12 weeks

Hours: Full-time

Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0QX

Closing date: 8th March 2026

Interview: Onsite in April

Start date: June 2026

ISIS Neutron and Muon Source produces beams of neutrons and muons that allow scientists to study materials at the atomic level using a range of instruments all suited for different setups and scientific needs. Neutron and muon experiments are non‑destructive and are used to probe a range of atomic level effects and phenomena, such as stress and strains in mechanical parts, battery discharging states, or complex biological structures. The cryogenics team provide sample environments down to 20 mK and magnetic fields up to 13 T. Low temperatures allow scientists to capture sharp, noise‑reduced data due to dampened thermal atomic vibrations. Low temperatures and applied magnetic fields may also be useful in studying phase transitions and long‑range magnetic ordering.

A summer placement in the cryogenics team would allow a student to learn about our equipment from experts in mechanical engineering, physics and machining, tailoring the learning to the student if required. The cryogenics team are developing their high magnetic field capabilities for neutron scattering experiments. The project will develop and optimise a dysprosium “booster” insert that is used inside superconducting magnets to locally enhance the magnetic field at the sample position beyond the intrinsic magnet limit. This will involve building and testing a dysprosium booster insert, then analysing the data produced to better understand how the structure and properties of the dysprosium affect its performance. Design iterations will be made to optimise the peak field boost from the dysprosium. The project will provide hands‑on experience with cryogenic engineering, experimental data analysis, and the physics of magnetism at cryogenic temperatures, all within the context of neutron scattering.

Summer Placements at STFC

STFC’s incredibly diverse range of placements allow you to work alongside world leading engineers, scientists, and technicians in highly collaborative environments. Whichever you choose, you will become a critical member of the team in which you will be exposed to exciting projects and challenges from the start. You will also be supported every step of the way by our dedicated Early Careers Development Team.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Join the cryogenics team for 6 – 12 weeks.
• Develop their understanding of cryogenic engineering and magnetism.
• Develop the functionality of a dysprosium magnet booster.
• Analyse data and draw logical conclusions to improve future designs.

Person Specification

The below criteria will be scored during Shortlisting (S), Interview (I) or both (S&I). In order to apply for the role we are looking for the following:

Essential:

• You are in full‑time education at university, and will be returning to university/your studies to complete your undergraduate degree once the summer placement has concluded (S).
• You have the right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement (S).
• Able to commence full‑time, on‑site, employment during the summer 2026 (S).
• Ability to work in a radiation controlled area (S).
• Good communication, team working, and time/task management skills (S&I).
• The ability to apply logic to learn hands‑on and theoretical skills; and solve both technical and non‑technical problems (S&I).
• Familiarity with making experimental measurements individually or in a small group, analysing data and establishing next steps (S&I).
• Demonstrable understanding of applied physics concepts, e.g. quantum mechanics, thermodynamics or cryogenic engineering (S&I).

Desirable:

• Experience with electronic experimental data collection using, for example, oscilloscopes, digital voltmeters and lock‑in amplifiers (S&I).
• Use of a scientific programming language (e.g. Python/MatLab/Labview) for data collection or analysis (S&I).

Employee Benefits

• 30 days holiday pro rata.
• Flexible working hours.
• Easily accessible public transport links/ free parking.
• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

As this job does not fulfil the UK Government minimum criterion for obtaining sponsored migrant worker status, we will be unable to apply for sponsorship for anyone not eligible to work in the UK. At interview, all shortlisted candidates are required to bring with them identification documents and original documents that prove they hold or can obtain the right to work in the UK.

You can check your eligibility here: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa/y

Application Guidance

Please note that we can only accept a maximum of 2 applications per candidate. Part of our application process involves submitting your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should address your suitability for the opportunity based how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert. Please note that we hold the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of applications have been received.

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