Physicist - Optical and Laser Diagnostics For Fusion Research
Job Ref: 2752
Job Title: Physicist - Optical and laser diagnostics for fusion research
Job type: Permanent Full Time
Location: Culham, Oxfordshire
Salary: £29,893 to £44,272 pa dependent on experience plus industry leading benefits including an outstanding pension scheme
Closing date: 14th June 2018
Do you want to help shape the future of the world’s energy?
Nuclear fusion, the process that powers the Sun, can play a big part in our carbon-free energy future. The Culham Centre for Fusion Energy (CCFE), operated by the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), is one of the world’s leading fusion research laboratories. CCFE hosts the world’s largest magnetic fusion experiment, the Joint European Torus (JET), on behalf of its European partners. Around 900 people are employed at the JET facilities, with around 100 scientists visiting each year to conduct research.
The Electron Kinetics Group, set within the Tokamak Science Department at CCFE, is responsible for the development and operation of diagnostic systems that measure properties of the electrons in the JET plasma. This group is responsible for several systems, based on the principles of microwave reflectometry, Thomson scattering, electron cyclotron emission (ECE), interferometry and polarimetry.
We are seeking a diagnostic physicist with responsibility for the operation of the high-resolution Thomson scattering system (HRTS) on JET. This system, which is essential to many JET experiments, uses a high-power Q-switched Nd:YAG laser to probe the plasma and obtain measurements of the electron density and temperature profile.
Key accountabilities/responsibilities include:
- Commission, maintain, troubleshoot and operate the HRTS diagnostic
- Ensure the system is aligned and calibrated for operations
- Maintain the analysis code and validate data as requested
- Monitor diagnostic performance during campaigns and inform all stakeholders of any changes as necessary
- Produce and maintain suitable documentation
- Enhance / upgrade system as required
- Provide guidance to scientists wishing to work with the diagnostic data
- Engage in scientific work within the JET programme
The UKAEA hosts and manages the JET nuclear fusion energy experiment on behalf of the EU and is also home to the UK’s MAST-U fusion energy experiment. UKAEA also works with industry and other third parties to develop new technologies currently in Remote Handling and Materials research. Following recent UK funding two new centres of excellence in tritium fuel handling and component testing and validation are being built. The culture at UKAEA promotes research, innovation and leading edge technological excellence, whilst investing in its people.
Knowledge skills and experience
Essential
- PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant area of physics with expertise in experimental laser / optical systems / diagnostics
- Fluency in a computer programming language (e.g.
- IDL/Python/Fortran/C++) and familiarity with Linux/UNIX systems
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Professional approach to operation and safety
Desirable
- Familiarity with plasma measurement techniques
- Experience in project management
- Experience with quality assurance and safety documentation
Special requirements:
- Occasional shift work will be required in support of JET operations
Notes:
Please note all employees working at the UK Atomic Energy Authority will be required to complete an online Disclosure Certificate application as part of their clearance - The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks will show the details of all current criminal convictions (convictions considered unspent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974) or will confirm that there are no such convictions.
- Please be advised that this vacancy may close earlier than stated if large or sufficient numbers of applications are received.
- Please note UKAEA do not pay travel expenses for interviews.
- The UK Atomic Energy Authority actively promotes equality and values diversity in our workforce. We operate a number of flexible working arrangements (such as part-time working/job share/home working). Flexible working may be available with this role, please discuss with the hiring manager or HR if you have any concerns.
PLEASE NOTE WE WELCOME APPLICATIONS ACROSS 2 LEVELS, THE LEVEL IS DETERMINED BY SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE AGAINST THE SET CRITERIA. THE LEVEL 4 ROLE ATTRACTS A SALARY RANGE OF £29,893 to £33,969 AND THE LEVEL 5 ATTRACTS A SALARY OF £38,959 to £44,272.