Summer Placement - Applied Radiation Technology

Fusion, the process that powers the sun and stars, is one of the most promising options for generating the cleaner, carbon-free energy that our world badly needs. UKAEA leads the way in realizing fusion energy, partnering with industry and research organisations to achieve ground breaking advancements. Our goal is to bring fusion electricity to the grid by developing the power stations of tomorrow and the skilled workforce to deliver them.

The Applied Radiation Technology Group (ART) develops fusion technologies and underpinning R&D programmes by leading the application and development of nuclear modelling codes, tools, and analysis of nuclear data. The group performs highly detailed, accurate and reliable time-dependent simulations and modelling in neutronics, waste management, and magnet safety to support concept development and detailed design, safety case, and operations. 

As a Summer Placement Student, you will deliver a defined short-term project that contributes to larger R&D projects led by the ART group to model and measure nuclear environments. You will also conduct validation and verification experiments to support the design, commissioning, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of fusion machines and experiments, helping to advance the realisation of fusion power plants.

Your core responsibilities include:

• Perform data and nuclear analysis to support the development, validation, and verification of novel experimental techniques, including the adaptation of existing methods, in support of fusion power plant development.
• Work alongside experienced staff to gain practical experience with the group’s methods, practices, and tools, including the design, operation, maintenance, and demonstration of nuclear instrumentation.
• Develop scientific coding skills to help create and improve nuclear analysis tools that enhance the ART group’s capability and efficiency.
• Build knowledge of fusion-relevant topics and apply this understanding to assigned projects.
• Identify opportunities to improve experimental apparatus, process plant systems, and operational practices.
• Collaborate with other teams and groups to build networks and ensure effective delivery of shared objectives.

• Studying towards a degree in Science or Engineering 
• Confident with all Microsoft applications including Excel, Word and Powerpoint
• Driven, with a strong appetite to learn and take on new challenges
• Able to collaborate effectively and communicate clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Well organised and adaptable with the ability to plan and prioritise workload

UKAEA’s mission is clean energy for all, and we welcome talented people from all backgrounds to help us achieve this goal. We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and strive to ensure fair representation across our workforce. We particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented in STEM, including women and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, while ensuring all appointments are made on merit. Further information can be found here. UKAEA is committed to being accessible. Please email if you require help or adjustments to compete on a fair basis.