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Undergraduate Placement - Materials Scientist

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AWE

Sep 17

  • Internship
    Full-time
    Placement Program
  • Reading
  • Quick Apply

AI generated summary

  • You must be a British citizen studying Materials Science or Chemistry, able to obtain security clearance for the role.
  • You will develop foam and inorganic materials, conduct analyses, synthesize precursors, perform experiments, and support engineering with various analytical techniques and stakeholder engagement.

Requirements

  • - Candidates will be studying for a degree in related fields such as Materials Science or Chemistry.
  • - Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role.
  • - You must be a British National to apply for a role with us.
  • - You must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.

Responsibilities

  • The development of foam and aerogel materials for laser target application to support the modelling and characterisation of plasma-based reactions. This includes investigating the development and manufacture of materials using less hazardous chemicals, as well as analysing materials including chemical, physical and x-ray CT properties/characteristics.
  • The development of new inorganic materials for control triggered electrical breakdown. You will be involved in investigating and developing alternative materials, the production for testing and electrical breakdown testing, as well as analysing materials including chemical, physical, and crystallographic.
  • The development and application of analytical methodologies associated with the qualitative and quantitative assessment of organic, inorganic and metallic materials. Techniques include mechanical, elemental, spectroscopic, rheology and thermal analyses.
  • Synthesis of inert precursors for direct in-flow, high-purity synthesis of pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN); the application of synthetic chemistry techniques to prepare and purify target precursor compounds and evaluating batch and flow chemistry process techniques, exploring a range of process conditions, as well as chemical characterisation of inert precursors and PETN products.
  • Performing experimentation and applying chemistry and/or materials science knowledge to further understand the material behaviour in complex multi-material systems.
  • Supporting Engineering through the analysis of test pieces using various microscopic and analytical techniques, engaging with a variety of stakeholders including international partners.

FAQs

What is the duration of the undergraduate placement?

The undergraduate placement is for a duration of 12 months.

When is the start date for the placement?

The placement induction start date will be in August 2025.

What are the key responsibilities of the role?

The key responsibilities include developing foam and aerogel materials, investigating inorganic materials, applying analytical methodologies, synthesizing inert precursors, performing experimentation on material behavior, and supporting engineering through analysis of test pieces.

What qualifications are required to apply for this role?

Candidates must be studying for a degree in related fields such as Materials Science or Chemistry.

What benefits can successful candidates expect?

Successful candidates will receive a salary of £22,250, pension contributions, every second Friday off, 270 hours of annual leave, and access to an employee discounts portal.

Are there any security clearance requirements for this position?

Yes, candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role.

Who can apply for this role?

Only British Nationals can apply for this role, as stated in the job description.

Where is the workplace located?

The workplace is located at Aldermaston, near Reading, Berkshire.

How does the recruitment process work?

The recruitment process is rolling, meaning positions are filled as soon as suitable candidates are found, so it is advised to apply as soon as possible.

What qualities are sought in candidates for this role?

Candidates should have a passion for materials development or analytical chemistry, a growth mindset, curiosity, innovation, resilience, and be team workers.

We are a team of remarkable people achieving extraordinary things in support of UK defence and security

Defence & Aerospace
Industry
5001-10,000
Employees
1987
Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

AWE (Atomic Weapons Establishment) is a British defence company primarily involved in the design, manufacture, and support of nuclear weapons for the United Kingdom's national defence. Their ultimate mission is to contribute to the country's security by ensuring the reliability and safety of the UK's nuclear deterrent. AWE plays a crucial role in maintaining the nation's defence capabilities, focusing on nuclear deterrence and security technologies. The purpose of AWE is deeply rooted in safeguarding the integrity and effectiveness of the UK's nuclear arsenal, adhering to the highest safety standards and technological advancements to support the defence and strategic interests of the United Kingdom.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and regular pay reviews

    We use an independent company to benchmark our salaries, to ensure they’re competitive against industry standards. And we also conduct regular performance-related pay reviews.

  • Annual leave

    Because our working pattern differs from that of other companies, we calculate our annual leave in hours. You’ll benefit from a generous total of 270 hours’ leave a year which includes an allowance for Bank Holidays.

  • Agile and flexible working

    As a business, we’re moving to a more agile working model, which means for some roles we’re introducing the opportunity to work offsite or at home. And, if it works for you and for the business, we’re also open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

  • AWE Life Insurance

    We also provide a life insurance benefit for all employees, aged up to and including 74. This means that, in the event of your death, a lump sum death-in-service benefit of four-times your salary is payable.

  • The AWE Group Personal Pension

    Upon being enrolled in the pension plan, you’ll pay a percentage of your salary into the pension each month. It’s flexible, so you can increase or decrease the amount you pay into the plan at any time. The Company will also make a contribution to your pension on your behalf.