Materials Deformation Simulation Specialist
Overview
The salary for this role is £48,290 (inclusive of a Specialist Allowance). Onsite working is expected for a minimum of 3 days a week, however, we actively support requests for flexible working. This role will be based at Culham, Oxfordshire. The candidate must complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions and possibly a search of open source data.
Role
We are seeking a research scientist to develop advanced High‑Performance Computing (HPC) models to support the design and operation of future fusion energy systems, focusing on predicting deformation and irradiation effects in advanced metallic and ceramic materials. You will apply microscopic and finite element simulation methods to study material behaviour under extreme conditions such as irradiation, high temperature, and mechanical stress, using large‑scale atomistic and finite element simulations on national and international supercomputing facilities to develop predictive models of damage, deformation, and gas transport in fusion reactor components.
If you are keen to contribute to cutting‑edge fusion research, this role offers the opportunity to work within the EPSRC/EUROfusion research programme and collaborate with colleagues across UKAEA to advance the application of computational materials science in support of the safe and reliable operation of future tokamak reactors.
Key Responsibilities
* Advance UKAEA’s research in complex materials modelling using finite element simulations to predict engineering‑relevant properties and assess material behaviour in fusion environments.
* Apply computational methods including density functional theory and atomistic force fields to study material evolution under fusion‑relevant conditions.
* Extend research activity to non‑fusion applications to broaden impact and application of modelling approaches.
* Contribute to and support international collaborations involving multiple partner countries.
* Develop new cross‑disciplinary collaborations in materials and engineering simulation to strengthen UKAEA’s international position.
* Produce high‑quality scientific outputs, including conference presentations and first‑author journal publications.
* Contribute primarily to the EPSRC/EUROfusion research programme while collaborating with wider UKAEA programmes.
Compensation and Benefits
£48,290 (inclusive of Specialist Allowance) plus excellent benefits including an outstanding pension.
Full list of benefits: https://careers.ukaea.uk/life-at-ukaea/employee-benefits/
Qualifications
Essential Requirements
* Degree‑level education in physics, materials science, engineering, computing, or related discipline.
* Proven or developing expertise in simulations involving High Performance Computing, preferably in condensed matter theory or computational materials science.
* Track record of first‑author journal publications.
* Experience guiding and mentoring other staff within area of expertise.
Desirable
* PhD degree in condensed matter theory, computational materials science, or related discipline.
* Long‑term vision for fusion research needs in engineering materials science.
* Fellowship or membership status, e.g. of IoPL.
* Lecturing experience.
* Ability to communicate and influence other stakeholders effectively, especially post‑holder’s equivalents in universities, international laboratories, etc.
* Interest and ability to supervise members of staff involved in related projects.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
UK Atomic Energy Authority is committed to clean energy and welcomes talented people from all backgrounds. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups in STEM, including women and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, while ensuring all appointments are made on merit. We are committed to being accessible. Contact talent@ukaea.uk if you require assistance or adjustments to compete fairly.
#J-18808-Ljbffr