Undergraduate Placement - Applied & Theoretical Scientist

Applied Scientist & Theoretical Scientist (within Physics) AWE Placement Programme

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About AWE

We are AWE. We're a team of remarkable people achieving an extraordinary mission: keeping the nation safe and secure.

Our work is critical. We are responsible for delivering the next warhead for the UK's nuclear deterrent; working at the forefront of nuclear technologies that keep the nation safe.

AWE's support for the government's strategy takes many facets: from supporting the weapon programme for the nuclear deterrent, supporting the UK's counter-terrorist programme, identifying where there may be nuclear tests taking place around the world, and building an expert group of individuals to give the UK real depth in nuclear science and technology.

Start an extraordinary career at AWE; grow your skills, learn from industry experts and become part of a community at one of the most unique companies in the UK.

About the Year in Industry:

This position is created for university students undertaking a 12-month placement, who will join a small team of scientists within our physics function.

You will apply your skills and knowledge to support the full lifecycle of warhead components and technologies. We have a diverse range of teams who work to support the delivery of our mission including Image Analysis, Explosive Modelling, Applied Computer Science, and Mathematical Assessment, to name just a few!

During the programme, you'll focus mainly on one or two projects, gaining a deeper insight into the work that is done. You'll be supported by a line manager and a mentor, who will help you to navigate your time with us and support you in developing the skills to build your career within the defence industry.

Your on-programme learning will combine a corporate induction to help you find your feet, on-job training, and some classroom-based or online learning, depending on your role.

Alongside this, your off-programme learning will include being part of an undergraduate group project team focusing on a business deliverable. We will give you every opportunity to network with other undergraduates, as well as the graduate community, so you can start building your business contacts at AWE.

At the end of the programme, you'll have increased your knowledge and understanding within your subject area and gained additional skills to help you in your future career.

The Behaviours you will bring to the team

Candidates will be studying for a degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Mathematics, Data Science, or Computer Science.

• 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.

Location

You will be based at Aldermaston, near Reading, Berkshire.

The Benefits

You will have the opportunity to learn from subject matter experts and to develop skills that are applicable across many industries. Successful candidates will receive:

• A salary of £22,250.
• A market-leading contributory pension scheme. We will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your own contribution.
• Every second Friday off. We do this by working a 41-hour week followed by a 33-hour week.
• 270 hours of annual leave a year, that includes an allowance for bank holidays.
• Access to the employee discounts portal for everyday savings on retail, hospitality, and leisure.

Start Date

Undergraduate Placement Induction start date will be August 2025, so please avoid taking leave during this period if you are successful. This role is offered on a 12-month contract.

Recruitment Process

We recruit on a rolling basis which means as soon as our positions have been filled, the scheme will close to new applications. So, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out!

Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. Please note that you must be a British National to apply for a role with us.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions, and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants.