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AWE plays a crucial role in the defence of the United Kingdom, by providing and maintaining the warheads for the country’s nuclear deterrent. We are a centre of scientific, engineering and technological excellence, with some of the most advanced research, design and production facilities in the world. Our unique expertise also assists the UK Government in developing and delivering a range of innovative and integrated support services, including national nuclear security and counter-terrorism solutions.
This is a fantastic opportunity for university students who want to become valuable professionals. This opportunity will enable you to grasp experience as you will be working in the science arena. Also, you will be given the opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge as a placement student!
What is the role?
As a Radiochemistry undergraduate student you will have the opportunity to work with world-class scientists in an exciting part of AWE that provides a wide range of analytical capabilities and expert advice to AWE and government agencies / external customers, whilst ensuring AWE meets regulatory and licence condition compliance.
There are three placements available:
Radiochemistry with Mass Spectrometry Placement
Lab based placement split between two teams who use radiochemistry separations to isolate and purify trace actinides from environmental samples prior to measurement using Inorganic mass spectrometry to characterise isotopic & elemental signatures. Previous experience with radiochemistry or isotope mass spectrometry would be preferable.
Radiochemistry with Radiation Detection Placement
Lab based placement split between two teams who use radiochemistry separations to isolate and purify a range of nuclides of interest from environmental and radioactive samples with measurements through gamma spectroscopy, liquid scintillation counting and alpha spectroscopy. Previous coding experience would be preferable although there will be ample opportunities to learn throughout the placement
Radiation Detection Scientist Placement
Lab and desk-based placement performing radiometric analysis and data analysis for multiple customers across AWE and UK government. This placement will offer the successful candidate the opportunity to plan and perform their own analysis using gamma spectroscopy, liquid scintillation counting and alpha spectrometry as well as other novel detection systems. Experience will also be gained in data science methods although previous experience is not essential and ample training will be provided
Why apply?
As a Radiochemistry undergraduate student you will have the opportunity to work with world-class scientists in an exciting part of AWE that provides a wide range of analytical capabilities and expert advice to AWE and government agencies / external customers, whilst ensuring AWE meets regulatory and licence condition compliance.
You will also receive:
- AWE offers all undergraduate students a salary of £18,300
- A market leading contributory pension scheme
- Generous holiday entitlement
- Excellent work/life balance
- 9-day working fortnight. This means you get every other Friday off work.
Alongside these benefits you will get the opportunity to learn from some of the top leaders in their field.
Who can apply?
AWE is interested in applications from candidates working towards a degree in Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Physics, or combined Chemistry/Physics. Most importantly we are looking for enthusiastic individuals keen to get involved and work on interesting research and tasks.
You will possess the following traits and qualities:
- Growth Mindset; You’re full of grit and determination. Clear where you are going and how you will get there.
- Curious; you’re a person who loves to think outside the box. (You’re a person who loves to take the box apart!).
- Innovative; you’re open to learning about new technologies and ground-breaking ideas.
- Resilience; you’re an advocate of ‘speaking up’ for yourself and others openly and constructively.
- Team Worker; you’re dependable and reliable. You’re interested in collaborating with and supporting others.
Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role and be willing and able to work in designated areas, if applicable.
It only takes 30 seconds to register your interest and Sanctuary Graduates are here to support you through your application journey!
