Fusion Research Laboratory Technician

Position: Fusion Research Laboratory Technician
Location: Bristol, UK
Salary: £45,000 per year
Type: Full-time

Role Summary:
As a Fusion Research Laboratory Technician at Astral, you will engage in cutting-edge development of Inertial Electrostatic Confinement (IEC) fusion neutron sources, which will have real-world societal impact long before a power plant is plugged into the grid. Your work will directly contribute to accelerating advancements in the fusion power industry and support the domestic generation of medical radioisotopes, enhancing the accessibility and affordability of cancer diagnostics and treatments in the UK and, eventually, worldwide.

We seek experienced candidates inspired and motivated by our vision to realise the many benefits of fusion technologies today.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct hands-on assembly, testing, and maintenance of plasma fusion devices.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team on fusion fuel cycle research projects.
• Operate and troubleshoot high-voltage systems and vacuum chambers.
• Assist in developing protocols for safe handling and production of radioisotopes.
• Document experimental procedures and results data for analysis.
• Liaise with national laboratories for sample analysis.
• Be prepared to work in a fast-paced environment to drive forward innovation.
• The ability to solve problems creatively and effectively by taking the initiative is essential.
• Train on and adhere to stringent safety protocols, such as IRR-17, in a laboratory environment.

Requirements:

• Three of experience working in a laboratory environment with familiarity with high voltage, vacuum systems, and/or radiation. Comprehensive training will be provided, but experience in at least one of the three is necessary.
• Experience conducting experiments with high-energy particle physics equipment such as accelerators, cyclotrons or research reactors is highly desirable.
• Technical proficiency with laboratory equipment and diagnostics tools.
• Willingness to present work and activities at international conferences.
• Experience in handling complex material and chemical processing techniques is desirable.
• Familiarity with high-performance computing for simulation, such as Monte Carlo-based codes, as well as scripting languages and/or data analysis packages, would be advantageous.
• Candidates with their own transport and the ability to be located in Bristol is essential.

Application:

Please submit your CV along with a cover letter demonstrating your suitability for the role.

Astral is an equal opportunities employer and strongly supports diversity in our workforce. We also welcome applications from candidates with employment gaps due to caring responsibilities or similar circumstances.