Welcome to AWE, where bold ideas meet groundbreaking science. We’re not just scientists—we’re visionaries, innovators, and protectors on a mission to safeguard the nation while shaping the future of technology. From delivering the UK’s next nuclear warhead to spearheading cutting-edge research in nuclear science, every day at AWE is an adventure of discovery and impact.
Your chance to excel: The Defence STEM Undergraduate Scheme (DSUS)
We’re thrilled to introduce the Defence STEM Undergraduate Scheme—a life-changing opportunity to elevate your university experience. This isn’t just a scholarship, it’s a launchpad to an extraordinary career in science.
Here’s what’s in store for you
- Full tuition fee coverage (up to £9,250/year).
- A yearly bursary (up to £5,000) to ease cost of living pressures.
- Paid summer placements—earn £23,500 pro rata while you dive into hands-on projects.
- Fast-track graduate opportunities— fast-track your application to a permanent graduate role with AWE.
At AWE, we recognise the challenges students face, and we’re here to empower you with financial support and career-ready skills.
Your experience at AWE: Hands-on, cutting-edge, and inspiring.
Imagine working on unique materials in world-class research facilities, using dedicated equipment and processes that directly support national safety and security. Through immersive, hands-on placements, you’ll explore:
- The science behind the UK's nuclear deterrent.
- Advanced manufacturing and production techniques.
- Interactions within the regulatory environment—gain firsthand knowledge of working with regulators.
If successful there is an opportunity to complete a is a 9-week Summer Placement, with a deep dive into the fascinating world of deterrence policy and defence. No two days are the same—it’s all about engaging projects and interactive learning.
About you
Are you eligible? We’re looking for YOU.
If you’re studying a science discipline, this opportunity is calling your name. We’re especially keen to hear from students specialising in:
- Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Analytical Science
- Physics
- Maths
- Computer Science
Important:
Applicants must be UK nationals with a UK passport and able to obtain security clearance.
What’s next?
Applying is simple—whether you’re just starting out at university or you’re approaching your 2nd year of your degree this autumn, this scheme is open to you.
Heres the process
- Apply online and complete testing with helpful practice tests provided. Complete a final stage interview.
- Shape the future of science with AWE.
- This isn’t just a scholarship—it’s your gateway to a career filled with innovation, discovery, and purpose. Questions? Reach out to the Early Careers Team at EarlyCareers@awe.co.uk.
Next steps
Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don’t always ‘tick every box’. That’s why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don’t meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we’d love to receive your application.
Important things you need to know
- We encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment if applications are high and the role therefore closes.
- You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV.
- We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process.
- Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.
Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.
Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.
If you’d like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.
