Researcher in nuclear safeguards, especially multivariate analysis - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the field: Nuclear safeguards is a research field that deals with measures aimed at ensuring that sensitive nuclear material is not diverted from the civil fuel cycle for use in non-peaceful applications. Within the field, activities are aimed at improving and developing instrumentation, measurement technologies and analysis techniques in order to verify, among other things, spent nuclear fuel, but also aiming at strengthening nuclear safeguards in future nuclear energy systems.

Project description and work duties: In the research group of nuclear safeguards, the main focus is on research related to non-destructive assay and analysis of synthetic data from such measurement systems, as well as improvement and development of analysis methods using programming and modelling. During the past years, the emphasis has been on the application of multivariate analysis for nuclear safeguards purposes, where multidimensional data is analyzed. Applications are primarily found in the existing nuclear fuel cycle, but can also be used to strengthen nuclear safeguards in future nuclear energy systems. Tasks are to a large extent related to the creation of simulation and analysis models using multivariate analysis of non-destructive assay signatures from objects such as spent nuclear fuel, and to executing such simulation and analysis work using synthetic and (if possible) experimental data. It may be possible to participate in measurement campaigns on spent or dissolved nuclear fuel. The researcher is expected to participate in such campaigns, should they take place.

There may also be an opportunity for the researcher to contribute to the development of education and teaching activities within nuclear safeguards on the European level. Another possibility is for the researcher to engage in the planning and construction of a local research facility. Finally, we would like to point out the opportunity for the candidate to define parts of the research activates based on interest and personal preferences, given their relevance to the activities of the nuclear safeguards group as a whole.  

The results of the research shall primarily be published in peer-reviewed international scientific journals, and presented at national and international conferences.

Qualification requirements: A doctoral degree in physics, preferably in nuclear engineering or nuclear technology, is required, as are documented good qualities within the described research field. For this position, also experience of modelling, simulations and other adequate analysis tools is required, as is ability to well communicate research results at workshops and conferences. The ability to teach in Swedish and English will be considered.

Evaluation criteria: Emphasis will be put on scientific merits in the described research field. The research should be clearly related to nuclear safeguards; of special weight are merits related to the development of new analysis methods using multivariate analysis, applied to non-destructive assay systems. A postdoc experience within the field is also considered a merit.

Programming experience using Python, Matlab, Octave, C/C++ as well as experience of using MCNP, Geant and Serpent are considered meriting. Teaching experience is also considered a merit.

Periods of leave, such as parental leave, that may be taken into account should be stated in the presentation of personal experience and qualifications. The department is striving to achieve a more equal gender balance and female candidates are particularly invited to apply.

Employment conditions: The researcher position is a 2-year appointment, and the researcher will primarily devote the time to his/her own research. It is possible to include department duties at a level of at most 20%, typically teaching.

Application: The application, written in Swedish or English, shall include a personal letter, a CV, copy of doctoral degree, list of publications and any other documentation that may be relevant. 1-2 reference persons shall be given.

Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

Salary: Individually negotiated salary.

Starting date: 01-02-2019 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of position: Temporary position (100%) ending 31-01-2021.

For further information about the position please Contact Senior Lecturer Sophie Grape, sophie.grape@physics.uu.se, 018-471 5842.

Please submit your application by 25 Januari 2019, UFV-PA 2018/4725.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.