Microscopist (Metallography)

Job Introduction

The Post Irradiation Examination (PIE) team supports a number of large, long-term projects on behalf of several of NNL’s major customers. Our expert team offers a unique materials characterisation capability in the field of Post Irradiation Evaluation.  We develop and perform materials preparation and analysis methodology, from using highly active specialist designed equipment to non-active projects at our Cumbria facilities. The team provides information supporting the ongoing operation of the UK Naval fleet, the UK’s AGR stations and a wider customer base.

This role is primarily based at Sellafield but will also include periods at our Workington facilities. 

The role requires the successful candidate to take responsibility for the hot cell microscopy (optical and electron) measurements performed on irradiated nuclear fuel in support of reactor safety cases and improvement of reactor operating conditions. The role also requires maintenance of existing microscopy techniques for the measurement of physical properties of irradiated fuel and materials. A key part of the role is to ensure that the technical quality of work is maintained.

Main Responsibilities

• Information capture and analysis of metallographic data from irradiated fuels and materials using optical and electron microscopy.

• Technical reporting for external stakeholders of the above data
• Undertake remote examinations, including the use of digital photography and micro/macroscopy
• Operate and maintain remote experimental equipment used to measure the physical dimensions and properties of irradiated samples. Analyse and troubleshoot equipment operability (including repeatability, error), technical queries and performance issues.
• Support the development of new equipment and techniques for measurement and analysis
• Maintain logbooks, data files and record sheets for sample testing and traceability
• Ensure all work is completed safely and accurately maintaining traceability and quality at all times
• Communicate with staff across teams

The Ideal Candidate

Essential Skills / Qualifications 

• Educated to degree level in a physical science discipline.
• Microscopy experience (optical and/or electron microscopy)
• Experience within a technical environment involving the characterisation and/or inspection of material
• SC Cleared (or ability to become so)

Desirable Skills / Qualifications

•  Monitored radiation worker.
•  Previous experience of remote handling techniques would be an advantage.
• Aptitude for problem solving.

About The Company

Grounded in robust science and decades of experience, National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) is the authoritative voice in the UK and beyond for technological development within the nuclear power sector.

Our unparalleled understanding of the science, challenges and opportunities makes us an unrivalled authority and partner in the field, providing experts, technologies, and access to cutting-edge facilities to organisations around the world.

Harnessing potential technologies and translating them into to industry-ready solutions means our pioneering approach spearheads international improvement and technological progress.

We work on projects as small as drilling a hole to analyse underground wastes with our integrated micro drilling technology, or as large as developing state-of-the-art power systems for spacecraft, based on radioactive materials.