Lead Data Scientist / Lead Theoretical Modeller / Lead Software Developer

Lead Data Scientist / Lead Theoretical Modeller / Lead Software Developer

Abingdon Rd, Culham, UK

Full-time

Company Description

Fusion, the process that powers the Sun and stars, is one of the most promising options for generating cleaner, carbon-free energy. UKAEA leads the way in realising fusion energy, partnering with industry and academia for groundbreaking advancements. Our goal is to bring fusion electricity to the grid to support the development of tomorrow's power stations. In pursuit of our mission, UKAEA embraces core values of innovation, commitment, trust and collaboration.

The Computing Division at UKAEA plays a vital role in fusion reactor research, covering HPC, data solutions, algorithm development, and AI. This role, within the plasma simulation group, aims to apply modern computational methods to areas of plasma physics. We collaborate closely with specialists in the plasma division and are aiming to expand partnerships with institutions in the US and Europe. Key research areas include developing new simulation capabilities, utilising machine learning for reactor design, and deploying uncertainty quantification tools. Candidates need a background in plasma physics or a closely related discipline, plus experience in scientific computing and/or knowledge of machine learning. The roles may involve the opportunity for an extended secondment to a partner institution.   

Roles at this level are focused on technical leadership and mentoring and require significant experience in a relevant field. You’ll be working as a key member of the team, taking on responsibility for your work area and leading teams of collaborators with a range of experience and backgrounds. Posts may involve significant elements of project leadership, software development and support, where you’ll either have specialist knowledge as a team member or be leading a team. 

Essential Requirements:

- Doctoral degree in a computational, mathematical, or physical science discipline (or equivalent experience). 

- Established knowledge of plasma physics and fusion energy. 

- Demonstrable experience with compiled languages (e.g., C++, Fortran, C) or advanced scripting languages (Julia, R, Python). 

- A solid foundation in either numerical methods, high performance computing, scientific software engineering or machine learning. 

- An established track record of research publication or high-quality software development. 

- Experience leading a small team as a project or technical manager. 

As an employee of UKAEA, you’ll benefit from:

- Outstanding benefit pension scheme, details of which can be found at the end of this advert.

- Corporate bonus scheme up to 7% and Relocation allowance (if eligible).

- Flexible working options including family-friendly policies and the right to request flexible working from the start of your employment. 

- Employee Assistance Programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders.

- Generous annual leave allowance starting with 25 days, plus 3 days Christmas closure and 2.5 privilege days, in addition to UK bank holidays.

- Range of career development opportunities.

- A vibrant culture committed to equality and being inclusive.

Salary: level 5 - £52,293 

Additional information

A full list of our benefits can be found here https://careers.ukaea.uk/life-at-ukaea/employee-benefits/

We welcome applications from under-represented groups, particularly individuals from black and other ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities, and women. Our Executive team, supported by our 'Equality, Diversity and Inclusion' (EDI) Partner and Inclusion Ambassadors, actively promotes EDI and takes steps to increase diversity within our organisation. We reinforce best practices in recruitment and selection and evaluate approaches to remove barriers to success.

Advert information