Summer Placement Scheme - Materials Science & Engineering

The Materials Division comprises three groups:  

• The Materials Research Facility (MRF): dedicated to the analysis of active materials and in particular, irradiation damage in nuclear materials; activities revolve around microstructural, thermophysical and mechanical characterisation and include the development of new pieces of experimental equipment and new analytical techniques;  

• The Fusion Materials Interfaces (FMI)team: focussed on the interaction between materials and neutrons, coolants, oxidants, plasma and other phenomena; activities include the application of density functional theory and FEM among various tools, for micro/meso/macroscale modelling, creation of inventory codes, neutron-based experiments, diagnostic and experimental development with radiochemistry and development of strategies for reduced waste in fusion; 

• The Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) team: dedicated to the development and/or enhancement of nuclear materials, ranging from low to high TRL (technology readiness level), including metals, ceramic-composites, coatings, multi-materials and interfaces; activities include microstructural design, evaluation of the impact on properties of additive manufacturing and novel joining at interfaces, combinatorial load impact assessment under irradiation. 

The Role

Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to make a difference? Join our Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) team and contribute to the future of fusion energy. 

We offer excellent opportunities for motivated and enthusiastic undergraduate students studying at UK Universities to join our 8-12-week summer placement scheme. The scheme is designed for students entering their penultimate or final year of studies, with potential opportunities post-graduation. 

Our scheme gives you a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of one of the most advanced sources of sustainable and clean energy. During your summer programme, you will experience a broad range of diverse tasks, work on real projects, and gain invaluable experience within the fusion energy sector. UKAEA offers a nurturing and supportive community for you to gain some valuable work experience in a fascinating and rapidly evolving industry.