Data Scientist / Theoretical Modeller / Software Developer

Company Description

By 2050, the planet could be using twice as much electricity compared to today. Are you interested in contributing and helping to shape the future of the world’s energy? If so, read on.

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 for groundbreaking advancements. Our goal is to bring fusion electricity to the grid, supported by tomorrow's power stations.In pursuit of our mission UKAEA embraces core values of innnovation, commitment, trust and collaboration.

The Computing Division at UKAEA plays a vital role in fusion reactor research, covering HPC, data solutions, algorithm development, and AI. This role, within the plasma simulation group, applies modern computational methods to areas of plasma physics. We collaborate closely with specialists in the plasma division and are aiming to expand partnerships with institutions in the US and Europe. Key research areas include developing new simulation capabilities, utilizing machine learning for reactor design, and deploying uncertainty quantification tools. Candidates need a background in plasma physics or a closely related discipline, plus experience in scientific computing and/or knowledge of machine learning. The roles may involve the opportunity for an extended secondment to a partner institution.   

As an employee of UKAEA you will benefit from:

• Outstanding defined benefit pension scheme, details of which can be found at the end of this advert.
• Corporate bonus scheme up to 7% and a Relocation allowance (if eligible).
• Flexible working options including family friendly policies and the right to request flexible working from the start of your employment. 
• Employee Assistance Programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders.
• Generous annual leave allowance starting with 25 days, plus 3 days Christmas closure and 2.5 privilege days, in addition to UK bank holidays.
• Wide range of career development opportunities.
• A vibrant culture committed to equality and being fully inclusive.

The salary for this role will be Level 4 - £35,520 plus Market Premium Payment (MPP) of £3,100. 

Job Description

UKAEA’s pay arrangements and grading structure are currently under review as part of a transformation project and proposed multi-year pay deal. UKAEA aims to introduce a new grading structure in 2024. This will enable us to lead the delivery of sustainable fusion energy and maximise the scientific and economic benefit. Now is a great time to join the Organisation and be part of the journey.

This role requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions.

The Role

Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to make a difference? Join our team and contribute to the future of fusion energy. 

Work in the Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) unit at UKAEA covers a diverse range of areas including high performance and high throughput computing (HPC/HTC), algorithm development, scientific software engineering, artificial intelligence and exascale technologies. We work at the frontiers of engineering and science to ensure that fusion reactors are well understood and well-engineered and that our scientists and engineers have access to world leading technology and facilities to perform their research.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and organize workload efficiently to meet project deadlines and objectives.
• Provide technical guidance and advice to team members, acting as a subject matter expert in a specialized area.
• Author or co-author scientific papers and present findings at conferences to disseminate knowledge internally and externally.
• Use professional judgment and expertise to design and implement solutions for various scientific tasks and challenges.

Qualifications

Essential Requirements:

• Doctoral degree in a computational, mathematical, or physical science discipline (or equivalent experience). 
• Demonstrable knowledge of plasma physics or a closely related discipline (e.g. computational fluid dynamics). 
• Proficiency in at least one compiled level language (e.g., C++, Fortran, C, Rust) or advanced scripting language (Julia, R, Python), along with strong UNIX command line interface skills. 
• Experience in modern software engineering practices. 
• Ability to work within a diverse team while also taking personal responsibility. 

Additional Information

What we offer

Our comprehensive benefits package includes a vibrant culture committed to being fully inclusive, an Employee Assistance Programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders, Flexible working options including family friendly policies, Emergency paid leave, Generous annual leave allowance (30.5 days) increased with length of service, wide range of career development opportunities, outstanding defined benefit pension scheme; Corporate bonus scheme.

Please note all employees working at the UK Atomic Energy Authority will be required to complete an online Disclosure Certificate application as part of their clearance – The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks will show the details of all current criminal convictions or will confirm that there are no such convictions.

Note for applicants who are applying for employment with UKAEA either from outside the United Kingdom or who have spent time outside the United Kingdom in the last five years. Please visit  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/criminal-records-checks-for-overseas-applicants . If the country, you are resident in or have resided in is not listed on this website or that the UK Government is not aware of how to obtain criminal records check from that state then we are unable to process your application.