About Us

Cambridge Atomworks is developing the ODIN nuclear micro-reactor and is situated at the heart of the Cambridge innovation ecosystem. We are building a high-calibre, collaborative team of experts in nuclear engineering, materials science, thermal hydraulics, and electricity generation. As we take the company forward, Cambridge Atomworks will require innovative engineering and manufacturing approaches across these fields to establish itself in emerging energy markets.

Role Overview

We are looking for a dedicated Materials Engineer or Chemist to carry out materials research, development and qualification activities critical to our micro-reactor design. You will work on the selection, experimentation, and characterisation of materials that must operate under extreme reactor conditions – a combination of high temperatures, molten salt corrosion, and ionising radiation. The focus of your work will be on their chemical properties and interactions, and degradation. As part of the Materials and Chemistry team, you will be supported by the team leader and work closely with other teams made up of world-class scientists and engineers. Your input will likely be impactful on the design. For this reason, strong communication and influencing skills are important for the successful candidate, in addition to your technical capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate the chemical properties and interactions between different materials/components that are currently considered for the design

• Propose experimental and/or modelling approaches for investigating chemical interactions, carry out the required work, evaluate the compatibilities

• Support the team leader, conduct experiments (thermal, corrosion, irradiation) and data analysis

• Contribute to developing and executing materials qualification plans

• Interface with materials and parts suppliers relevant to your projects/tasks, own the responsibilities

• Contribute to regulatory and safety documentation related to materials performance

• Maintain material property data records and contribute to design decisions through materials input

• International travel might be required for collaborative projects overseas

Required Experience/Skills

• 2:1 or above Bachelor’s, or Masters’ degree in Materials Science, Inorganic Chemistry, Nuclear Engineering with a materials focus, or a related field

• Hands-on experience in a physical science lab setting is required

• Understanding of materials degradation mechanisms

• Confident communicator, keen experimentalist

• Team player with influencing skills