At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and evaluate innovative uranium-containing glasses for nuclear waste management.
- Company: University of Sheffield, collaborating with the UK National Nuclear Laboratory.
- Benefits: 41 days annual leave, flexible working, and additional paid time off for caring responsibilities.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge project at a leading university and make a real impact in nuclear safety.
- Qualifications: PhD in materials science or related field, with strong lab skills and knowledge of glass materials.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Position Overview
Post‑doctoral researcher – University of Sheffield, Faculty of Engineering, School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering. Working pattern: Full time. Tenure: 9‑month, industry‑sponsored research collaboration with the UK National Nuclear Laboratory. Project location: Sellafield nuclear facility.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, produce and evaluate uranium‑containing glasses to support high level waste immobilisation.
- Conduct thermal treatment, aqueous phase analysis and solid state characterisation techniques.
- Advise on radioactive waste immobilisation in glass materials and liaise closely with industry partners.
Qualifications
- PhD in materials or an appropriate physical science (or close to completion).
- Strong practical laboratory skills including glass making, aqueous phase analysis and solid state characterisation techniques.
- Knowledge and experience of radioactive waste immobilisation in glass materials.
- Proactive worker with good time management, troubleshooting and forward planning skills.
- Excellent communication skills to liaise with industry partners.
Benefits
- 41 days annual leave (including closure days and Bank Holidays).
- Option to purchase up to ten additional days.
- Up to 5 days of paid time off for emergency caring responsibilities.
- Flexible working opportunities and hybrid working where possible.
Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to building teams of people from diverse heritages and lifestyles across the world, and believe diversity delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.
Research Associate in Nuclear Glass Development and Durability in Sheffield employer: University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Associate in Nuclear Glass Development and Durability, situated at the Sellafield nuclear facility. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the university provides extensive benefits including 41 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and a focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all team members can thrive in their roles while contributing to impactful research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Nuclear Glass Development and Durability in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the nuclear and materials science fields. Attend relevant conferences or seminars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to industry professionals. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Research Associate role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your lab work, especially any projects related to glass making or radioactive waste immobilisation. This will give potential employers a tangible sense of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! When you get the chance for an interview or networking event, be ready to explain your research and its impact clearly and confidently. Tailor your message to highlight how your experience aligns with the needs of the role at the University of Sheffield.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you prepare for interviews and connect with the right people. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm for the position and the organisation!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Nuclear Glass Development and Durability in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Associate. Highlight your PhD and any relevant experience in materials science, especially around glass making and radioactive waste immobilisation. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about nuclear glass development and how your background makes you a great fit for this project. Don’t forget to mention your communication skills and ability to work with industry partners.
Showcase Your Practical Skills:Since this role requires strong practical laboratory skills, be sure to include specific examples of your experience with glass making, aqueous phase analysis, and solid state characterisation techniques. We love seeing hands-on experience!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of uranium-containing glasses and radioactive waste immobilisation. Be ready to discuss your PhD research and how it relates to the role. The interviewers will appreciate your depth of understanding and practical experience.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Prepare to talk about your hands-on experience with glass making, aqueous phase analysis, and solid state characterisation techniques. Bring examples of past projects or challenges you've tackled in the lab to demonstrate your strong practical skills.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll be liaising with industry partners, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Good communication is key, so think about how you can convey your ideas effectively and engage with your interviewers.
✨Be Proactive and Organised
Highlight your time management and troubleshooting skills during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've planned projects or solved problems in the past. This will show that you're a proactive worker who can handle the demands of the role.
