At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research in nuclear engineering and inspire the next generation of engineers.
- Company: Join the University of Derby, a top-rated institution with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 47 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Collaborate with industry leaders like Rolls-Royce and engage in impactful projects.
- Why this job: Shape the future of nuclear engineering and contribute to the UK's Net Zero goals.
- Qualifications: Proven track record in research or industry leadership in nuclear engineering.
The predicted salary is between 70774 - 88467 £ per year.
About the University
We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better. The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region. We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes. Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.
About the College/Department
Here at the University of Derby, the College of Science and Engineering is the home STEM, the skills that are essential to the UK's Industrial Strategy. From digitisation to decarbonisation, we have an important role to play in shaping the future. And by researching or collaborating with us, you can too. The College brings together a powerful combination of scientific expertise, technological innovation, and creative practice. With disciplines spanning computing, AI, Data Science, engineering, environmental sciences, built environments and Psychology. We are uniquely positioned to solve real-world challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration. Our courses are designed with employability and future industry needs in mind, supported by cutting-edge facilities, strong employer partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability. Through applied research and hands-on learning, we equip students and staff to drive progress in areas that matter most; from smart technology to clean energy, advanced manufacturing to immersive design.
School of Engineering and Built Environment
The School of Engineering and Built Environment at the University of Derby is a dynamic and future-focused academic community that blends technical excellence with creative innovation. It offers a wide range of programmes across engineering, architecture, construction, and design, preparing students to tackle global challenges in sustainability, infrastructure, and the built environment. The School is home to research-active academics with backgrounds in architecture, interior design, and construction. Our staff bring real-world experience and academic rigour to the classroom, supporting students in developing both creative portfolios and technical competencies. The discipline area is located in the University's STEM annex in Markeaton Street, where staff offices and lab facilities are co-located. Key investments in the last few years include dedicated intelligent instrumentation and smart sensor technologies, robotics, renewable energy, power engineering and advanced materials and manufacturing. The discipline area is actively engaged in knowledge exchange projects and has an active applied research agenda.
About the Role
Join us in shaping the future of Nuclear Engineering. The UK nuclear sector is entering a period of transformational growth, with national strategies highlighting a substantial and urgent skills gap in nuclear engineering. At the University of Derby, we are committed to being part of the solution. The University of Derby has a clear ambition to build a distinctive, high-impact nuclear engineering research agenda that delivers national and international benefit. Significant investment in senior academic research appointments will strengthen research leadership, build critical mass, and shape future capability across nuclear power generation, product and systems engineering. The emphasis is on applied, industry-aligned research that addresses industry-focussed challenges, attracts external funding, and delivers tangible impact for the nuclear sector. This research agenda is closely integrated with advanced research training and innovation. It builds on established success with Rolls-Royce through the Nuclear Skills Academy, degree apprenticeships, and specialist MSc provision. Research excellence will underpin education, skills development, and workforce innovation, positioning the institution as a trusted leader in nuclear research and innovation. Growing our partnership with BAE Systems, the role will support industry-embedded PhD programmes, collaboration with in-house nuclear training teams, and accredited programmes.
Areas of Specialism
We welcome applications from accomplished research or industry leaders in any of the following areas:
- Advanced Materials, Manufacturing & Prototyping
- Digital Engineering
- Thermal Hydraulics
- Reactor Technology (including SMR)
Your Impact
As a Professor, you will play a pivotal role in advancing the University's reputation in nuclear research and innovation. You will:
- Provide strategic leadership of research across the School and with key industry partners.
- Strengthen and expand external partnerships, securing funding through collaborative research and development initiatives.
- Supervise PhD students funded through University and industry partnerships.
- Contribute to postgraduate teaching, including expert seminars and dissertation supervision on the MSc in Nuclear Product Engineering for Power Generation.
Interview date: Wednesday 22nd July 2026. This role is employed by University of Derby but works in partnership with Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd, therefore in order to undertake this position an individual must hold Security Clearance (SC) without any caveats to that clearance. Rolls-Royce will support the application for Security Clearance if the individual does not currently already have this in place. Due to the nature of work that Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd conducts and the protection of certain assets a person must be a UK national or in MoD approved cases a Dual National from a non-ITAR country.
About You
We are seeking established leaders with a recognised track record of excellence. You will demonstrate:
- A strong portfolio of high-quality peer-reviewed publications.
- Sustained success in securing external research funding.
- The ability to inspire academic teams, influence industry partners, and drive impactful innovation.
Benefits
Generous annual leave entitlement of 47 days inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days (pro rata). Teacher's Pension Scheme. Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme. Access to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailers. Discounted onsite gym. Holiday purchase. Cycle to Work scheme. A flexible working environment. A commitment to personal and professional development.
Key Contact
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Professor Nasser Sherkat, Head of School of Engineering and Built Environment.
Important Information
In order to meet the Professorial criteria, you will need to demonstrate proven achievement against two criteria:
- Significant achievement in at least one of either Research or Professional Practice or Teaching & learning and must also demonstrate
- High level of achievement in relation to both Professional Standing and Senior leadership.
- An up to date current curriculum vitae;
- A supporting covering letter outlining your suitability to the underlying role requirement, and;
- The names of two employment referees (including ideally, the last line manager/HR).
- A written statement evidencing how you meet the criteria for the award of the title of Professor;
- Details of four appropriately qualified referees (of at least Professor status) in relation to the Professorial title.
Closing Date: 29 Jun 2026
Area: Teaching and Research
Salary: £70,774 to £88,467 per annum (for exceptional performers, there is scope for further progression up to £101,738 per annum).
Professor of Nuclear Engineering (0060-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB employer: What Jobs
The University of Derby is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises staff wellbeing and professional development. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to groundbreaking research in nuclear engineering, employees benefit from generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the future of energy while enjoying a rewarding career in a dynamic academic community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Professor of Nuclear Engineering (0060-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Professor of Nuclear Engineering (0060-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB role you’re after at What Jobs.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at What Jobs a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at What Jobs.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Professor of Nuclear Engineering (0060-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB at What Jobs, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Professor of Nuclear Engineering (0060-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Professor of Nuclear Engineering (0060-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at What Jobs a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to What Jobs specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at What Jobs
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with What Jobs, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like What Jobs want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
