Neutronics Scientist
STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Oxfordshire
£37,213- £43,164 per annum (dependent upon qualifications and experience)
Full time, Permanent
About Us
The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) is one of Europe’s largest research organisations. We’re trusted to support, enable and undertake pioneering projects in an amazing diversity of fields. Through world-class facilities and people, we’re driving ground-breaking advances in science and technology.
STFC’s ISIS facility is a world-leading source of pulsed neutrons and muons. The facility performs cutting edge research into the structure and properties of materials at an atomic and molecular level.
About the Role
We now have an opportunity for a scientist to join the growing ISIS Neutronics Group.
The design of new neutron capabilities at ISIS is underpinned by detailed calculations and simulations. Such new capabilities include, for example, modifications to the ISIS Target Stations, designs for new neutron instruments or upgrades to existing instruments.
Neutronic calculations are key to the development of the target, moderator assemblies,shielding, instrument beamline configurations, neutron detectors and final instrument performance.
They allow optimization of components in response to the scientific needs of the research community. The ISIS neutronics team currently uses standard neutron transport codes, such as MCNPX, together with in-house developed software.
This is an area of growth and development within ISIS, with key challenges as we continue to develop the ISIS facility and also participate in international projects and collaborations such as the European Spallation Source.
The Neutronics Scientist will be responsible for:
• Carrying out an important role in the development of neutronic simulation technique and its application to the work at ISIS, encompassing target, moderator, reflector, shielding and instrument developments.
• Providing support and advice in neutronic calculations to accelerator and health physics groups in the areas of shielding and activation of components
• Helping to deliver the work of the neutronics group in a timely and professional manner.
• Ensuring that the neutronics simulations are carried out in a well-documented quality controlled manner.
• Collaborating with other neutron sources around the world.
• Enable the work of the group to be presented at relevant international conferences and in journal articles.
About you
Suitable candidates will hold a PhD in the physical sciences, most likely in an area related to nuclear physics, particle transport simulation or activation, or demonstrate significant relevant experience.
You will have familiarity with the operation and development of simulation codes for particle transport, including knowledge of Monte-Carlo techniques such as variance reduction methods, use of nuclear cross-sections, knowledge of transport codes (MCNPX, FLUKA, GEANT4, etc).
You will demonstrate a proven track record in the performance of particle simulations for the development of instrumentation or facilities, with direct experience of simulation relevant to neutron facilities
Benefits
An exceptional index linked pension scheme, and 30 days leave allowance are offered, as well as an onsite nursery, subsidised restaurant, gym and sports facilities.
How to Apply
Applicants are required to include a cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.
The closing date for applications is 31st July 2016
Informal enquiries about the role can be made to Steven Lilley (
[email protected])
Applications are handled by UK SBS; to apply please visit our job board at
http://www.topcareer.jobs/Vacancy/irc227230_6472.aspx Applicants who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone on 01793 867000.
