Engineer the Quantum RevolutionYour expertise can help us shape the future of quantum computing at Oxford Ionics.

View Open Roles

Material and Chemical Modelling Scientists

Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE)
Tadley
5 months ago
Applications closed

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Research Fellow in Theoretical Quantum Chemistry

Production Operatives - Back Shift

Research Software Engineer - Quantum Error Correction

Electrical Design Engineer

Nanophotonics Engineer, Plasma Etching

Senior Manager in Applied Quantum Dynamics - Theorist

QXNodS5KaGFtYjIuOTIwNDEuMTcyQGF3ZS5hcGxpdHJhay5jb20.gif

Material and Chemical Modelling Scientists

Location:RG7 4PR, located between Reading and Basingstoke, withfree onsite parking.

Package:

Junior Modelling Scientist (recent PhD graduates): £36,640 - £40,000 (depending on your suitability and level of experience)

Experienced Modelling Scientist (graduates with post-grad / Industry experience):£40,000- £50,000 (depending on your suitability and level of experience)

Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will considerflexible working requestsso that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern on your application. Opportunities for hybrid working in some roles.

Let us introduce the role

The Modelling Team in Materials and Analytical Science (MAS) at AWE is looking for Scientists at various stages of their careers across Materials, Mathematical and Chemical Modelling disciplines to support research and development within a wide range of technically challenging projects.

For our important mission to support current and future nuclear deterrent, security, and threat reduction programmes, we have new opportunities available in theMaterials Modelling discipline:The Materials Modelling team develop materials models and provide a predictive capability for materials properties, whilst applying new methodologies for new materials selection. Furthermore, the role involves finding modelling solutions to difficult real-world testing problems, coordinating with external technical partners on cutting-edge research projects and supporting the System modelling and simulation capabilities for AWE's Programmes.

Who are we looking for?

We are interested in hearing from candidates who can demonstrate knowledge or experience in several of the following areas:

  • A PhD in Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, or other numerate discipline
  • Experience in constructing material models of representative systems with particular focus on molecular reaction chemistry
  • Knowledge of Materials Science and/or polymer Science
  • Experience with a range of atomistic and molecular modelling techniques including (but not limited to) Quantum Chemistry, Density Functional Theory (DFT), Molecular Mechanics and Dynamics (MM/MD), Monte Carlo (MC), Multiscale and Mesoscale modelling
  • Experience using computational chemistry codes/software packages such as but not limited to Gaussian, NWChem, ONETEP, LAMMPS, VASP, and BIOVIA Materials Studio
  • Demonstrable understanding in areas related to molecular modelling such as quantum chemistry, statistical mechanics and chemical reaction kinetics
  • Familiarity with High Performance Computing (HPC) architectures and the Unix/Linux environment.
  • Programming and/or scripting experience in Python/C++/Shell/MATLAB
  • Knowledge of good software development practices including the use of tools to support this purpose such as GitLab
  • Able to work independently and unsupervised, as well as within a team to achieve common goals
  • Flexible, self-motivated and the ability to handle multiple tasks
  • Able to provide technical input within own field of expertise that can influence project, team or end user
  • Strong communication skills verbal and written

You'll need to have the ability to work calmly and constructively in a priority changing environment and be able to manage your own workload. You will also have initiative, enthusiasm, a flexible approach, and ability to work to tight deadlines.

Some reasons we think you'll love it here:

AWE has wide range of benefits to suit you. These include:

  • 9-day working fortnight - meaning you get every other Friday off work, in addition to 270 hours of annual leave.
  • Market leading contributory pension scheme(we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions).
  • Family friendly policies:Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.
  • Opportunities forProfessional Career Developmentincluding funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body.
  • Employee Assistance Programmeand Occupational Health Services.
  • Life Assurance(4 x annual salary).
  • Discounts- access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending.
  • Special Leave Policyincluding paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring.

The'Working at AWE' pageon our website is where you can find full details in the'AWE Benefits Guide'.

#LI-KT

Subscribe to Future Tech Insights for the latest jobs & insights, direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Pre-Employment Checks for Quantum Computing Jobs: DBS, References & Right-to-Work and more Explained

The quantum computing industry represents one of the most strategically important and rapidly evolving sectors in modern technology, with quantum professionals playing crucial roles in advancing scientific understanding, developing breakthrough technologies, and maintaining national technological competitiveness. As quantum computing transitions from academic research to commercial applications and national security implementations, pre-employment screening processes have become increasingly sophisticated and comprehensive. Quantum computing careers span diverse environments from university research laboratories and government quantum initiatives to commercial quantum startups and established technology companies developing quantum cloud services. Each sector brings unique screening requirements reflecting the strategic sensitivity of quantum technologies, the international nature of quantum research collaboration, and the critical importance of maintaining both research integrity and intellectual property protection. Understanding quantum computing pre-employment screening helps professionals navigate career opportunities effectively whilst enabling employers to identify candidates capable of contributing to quantum innovation whilst maintaining appropriate security standards, research ethics, and technical excellence. The screening processes examine not only technical quantum competencies but also research integrity, security clearance eligibility, and ability to work effectively across the interdisciplinary quantum ecosystem. This comprehensive guide examines the full spectrum of pre-employment screening practices across quantum computing careers, from basic right-to-work verification through enhanced security clearance processes, technical competency assessment, and industry-specific requirements. Whether pursuing opportunities in quantum algorithm development, quantum hardware engineering, quantum software development, or quantum research leadership, understanding these screening processes enables quantum professionals to prepare effectively and advance their careers successfully. The quantum computing sector's unique combination of cutting-edge research, commercial potential, and strategic importance creates screening requirements that reflect both the technical demands of quantum innovation and the security considerations of strategically sensitive technologies. These processes ultimately support the continued advancement of quantum computing by ensuring high professional standards and technical competence necessary for breakthrough quantum innovation and responsible quantum technology development.

Oxford Ionics: a candidate’s guide to a standout UK quantum employer

If you’re serious about a career in quantum computing, Oxford Ionics should be firmly on your shortlist. Born out of Oxford’s world-class trapped-ion research, the company has built a reputation for high-performance, engineering-led quantum systems and headline-grabbing partnerships. In this guide, we’ll unpack their technology, culture, opportunities, and how to position yourself as a strong applicant—so you can decide if Oxford Ionics is the right next step for you.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Launch Your Career in Quantum Computing: The UK's Quantum Supremacy Revolution

The United Kingdom stands at the forefront of a quantum computing revolution that's fundamentally transforming how we approach computational problems, from drug discovery simulations in Oxford to financial risk modelling in London's quantum labs. Britain's position as a global leader in quantum research and development has created an unprecedented demand for skilled quantum computing professionals that dramatically exceeds the current talent supply, making this the defining moment for careers in quantum technology. If you've been seeking a career at the absolute cutting edge of computational science or looking to position yourself in what many consider the most transformative technology of the 21st century, quantum computing represents an extraordinary opportunity. The convergence of massive government investment, breakthrough hardware achievements, quantum algorithm development, and enterprise adoption readiness has created perfect conditions for quantum computing career success.