Materials Scientist – Year in Industry

Why this role matters

Use materials science to understand, develop and test materials that support mission-critical work. You’ll help scientists understand how materials behave under different conditions, supporting the development, reliability and safety of complex technologies.

At a glance

Entry requirement

You should be working towards at least a 2:2 degree in Materials Science or Chemistry, with an interest in materials development or analytical chemistry. You must be graduating in either 2029 or 2030.

Security clearance

You must be a UK national, hold a UK passport, have lived in the UK for the past 10 years and be willing and able to obtain and maintain DV security clearance.

Working pattern

A 9-day working fortnight, with every second Friday off. This is an on-site, laboratory and office-based role at Aldermaston, near Reading. Due to the nature and security of the work, we cannot guarantee opportunities to work from home.

Key dates

Applications close: 31 October 2026

Start date: 2 August 2027

Assessment Centre: 11 and 18 Nov 2026 (could be subject to change)

What you could work on

• Materials development: Help develop foams, aerogels, inorganic materials or alternative materials designed to reduce the use of hazardous chemicals.

• Analysis and characterisation: Explore chemical, physical, microscopic, spectroscopic, thermal, mechanical, crystallographic or X-ray CT techniques.

• Experimental science: Plan and carry out experiments to understand material behaviour in complex systems and evaluate manufacturing or process conditions.

• Technical collaboration: Support engineering and scientific teams by analysing test pieces and sharing evidence with a range of stakeholders.

Why being onsite will support your development

This is an on-site, laboratory and office-based placement. Due to the nature and security of our work, we cannot guarantee opportunities to work from home for part of the week. Being onsite means you’ll learn directly from subject matter experts, access hands-on support and build connections across technical teams. This day-to-day access can accelerate your development and help you get more from your placement year.

The key skills we’re looking for

• Scientific curiosity: You enjoy understanding why materials behave differently and how evidence can answer technical questions.

• Practical problem-solving: You’re ready to plan experiments, explore options and apply scientific thinking to real challenges.

• Attention to detail: You can work carefully, follow procedures and record results accurately.

• Collaboration: You can learn from specialists, communicate findings and contribute positively to multidisciplinary teams.

Where this placement could take you

You’ll gain practical experience in materials development, laboratory experimentation, analytical techniques and technical reporting. The placement can prepare you for careers in materials science, analytical chemistry, research and development, engineering support or related technical fields, with the potential to return to AWE through a future graduate opportunity.

What happens after you apply

1. Online application  Submit your application as soon as possible.

2. Online testing  If eligible, you’ll complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning assessments, with practice materials available.

3. Virtual assessment centre  Successful candidates will be invited to a virtual assessment centre, expected between October 2026 and January 2027.

4. Pre-assessment support  You’ll be invited to a webinar with practical guidance on what to expect.

5. Offer and clearance  If successful, you’ll move into the offer and security-clearance stages ahead of joining on 2 August 2027.