Senior Scientist - Computational Physics

Yarnton

Job Description

Role Purpose

Our approach uses advanced simulation, data science and machine learning in a closed loop with experimental validation. Our team of scientists and engineers are developing a pathway to affordable and scalable fusion power plants by tailoring energy flow in our component design to help simplify engineering requirements. Partnerships are at the core of how we work; we believe that the path to fusion energy will be built through collaboration, combining the strengths of world leading laboratories, universities and industry. Our technology and capabilities go beyond fusion, and we are actively contributing to advances in space, materials science and defense today.

Our core modelling capability is in multi-physics based hydrocodes, which include models for resistive magneto-hydrodynamics, thermal conduction, viscosity, material strength, radiation transport, fusion burn and alpha transport. The thermophysical closures (for example equation of state and thermal and electrical conductivity) that support these models are also developed in-house. We are looking for a skilled and experienced computational physicist to develop and qualify our simulation and modelling tools. You will be responsible for planning and executing project-based work to implement models which you will verify and validate. You will be able to use your experience to work both independently and, in a team, mentoring and supporting colleagues where required to get the best outcomes.

Accountabilities and deliverables

Analyse and evaluate simulation-based concept designs of fusion and high energy systems from a core physics basis
Identify and develop verification and validation tests to inform correct code behaviour and implement them into continuous integration frameworks
Identify and improve physical models and implement them based on test outcomes
Develop performant algorithms suitable for use on High Performance Computing (HPC) systems
Develop multi-fidelity modelling approaches
Perform parametric simulation studies
Advise software users on simulation set up and configuration
Design robust software
Support the wider business with simulation and modelling expertise
Work together with other disciplines within the technical team to design and analyse experiments

Core skills, knowledge and attributes

Essential

Strong track record of planning and executing projects to add and improve multi-physics models to compressible hydrocodes and/or CFD solvers
A deep understanding of verification and validation and their relation to code quality assurance
A functional understanding of numerical solution strategies for simultaneous hyperbolic and parabolic PDEs with stiff source terms
Experience using HPC systems
Programming experience in a compiled language
Knowledge of software development best practice
Demonstrated initiative for independent technical problem solving
Demonstrated ability to deliver technical work to a high scientific standard
Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced environment
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
PhD or equivalent experience in physics based computational modelling

Desirable

Experience in radiation/particle transport simulation and modelling
Experience in resistive magneto-hydrodynamics (MHD) simulation and modelling
Experience developing analytical, reduced order, or semi-empirical models
Experience of profiling and developing scalable HPC software solutions
Project planning and management skills
An appreciation of how machine learning and other data science practices can improve physics-based modelling outcomes