Assistant Scientist 2025

We have a permanent position for an assistant scientist to work with our gamma-ray spectrometry team in the nuclear metrology group, supporting the vital role gamma-ray spectrometry plays in our scientific research and calibration services to deliver exceptional impact across medicine, nuclear power, and environmental monitoring.

The role

As an assistant scientist, you will be expected to be a highly motivated and self-driven team member who is keen to learn new skills and enthusiastic to get involved in what we do. You will be required to prepare a wide range of radioactive calibration samples, perform measurements and data analysis following specific protocols and carry out routine maintenance to support the day-to-day running of our gamma-ray spectrometry facility. Full training will be provided, so no previous experience of gamma-ray spectrometry is required although would be seen as a benefit.

The NPLs Nuclear Metrology group has a world-leading, multidisciplinary team and has a suite of state-of-the-art measurement facilities. The successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to deliver real impact across a range of projects and services in healthcare, radiation safety, defence, and environmental protection.

Your work will involve

• Routine maintenance and quality checks on the gamma spectrometers, supporting the investigation and resolution of any technical issues with the technical team
• Managing a schedule of measurements for multiple projects, services and users
• Maintaining a safe working environment in the gamma spectrometry laboratories; keeping the laboratory clean and tidy and supplied with personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Performing routine gamma spectrometry measurements, calibrations and perform cross-checks on the work of others
• Preparing sources and samples for gamma spectrometry measurements
• Reviewing and updating procedures and risk assessments
• Designing and manufacturing sample holders by 3D printing
• Support installation and setup of new detectors and equipment
• Supporting the training of others in the group
• Taking responsibility for maintaining exemplary standards of quality and health and safety in the laboratories
• Communicating effectively and working collaboratively with other team members
• Supporting a range of other projects, services and measurement techniques across the nuclear metrology group

At NPL we learn from each other, respect each other and work together to do better, for ourselves and for our customers. And whilst we’re always looking to stretch beyond what we know, we don’t make things more complicated when there’s no need. Together, we’re helping make the impossible, possible.

Beyond that, we’re looking for someone who’ll thrive in an environment like ours.

The skills you will bring to the role

• Computer literate with experience with Excel and Word.
• Practical research experience, carrying out experiments, documenting results and writing up conclusions
• Coding skills (specifically C) would be beneficial.
• The ability to work as part of a team but also self-motivated to work independently
• Excellent attention to detail
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal
• Background in Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics (degree level would be beneficial however not essential)

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. Some departments may require a higher level of security clearance.

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.