Assistant Scientist / Engineer – Fusion

Joining Arup

Arup’s purpose, shared values and collaborative approach have set us apart for more than 75 years, guiding how we shape a better world.

Our fusion energy work plays a critical role in helping society transition towards clean, secure, and resilient energy systems. Fusion represents one of the most technically ambitious solutions to achieving global net zero. Across the Resources team, we apply engineering and scientific expertise to help our clients design, plan, and deliver pioneering fusion‑related infrastructure and systems.

Based in our Leeds office, you will join a multidisciplinary community working across energy, science, engineering and digital delivery. Our work spans early‑stage strategy, concept design, technical assessments, and project delivery. You will help shape the future of fusion energy by providing insight, creativity and technical rigour to projects that are pushing the boundaries of what is scientifically and technologically possible.

Watch this short clip to discover how Arup is shaping a better world - and how you could be part of it!

The Opportunity

Arup’s work in fusion is an exciting and rapidly developing area. You will contribute to projects that support the advancement of first‑of‑a‑kind technologies, resilient energy systems, and the UK’s world‑leading fusion innovation ecosystem.

From day one, you will be involved in real‑world, meaningful project work. You’ll collaborate with colleagues across multiple disciplines - including engineering, physics, digital, risk, policy and programme management - gaining exposure to diverse viewpoints and technical areas. You will use your scientific or engineering background to inform design, analysis and decision‑making while developing your wider skills in multidisciplinary working.

You will also have direct interaction with UK fusion sector organisations and may have opportunities to support Arup’s internal fusion leadership team, providing insights into strategy, business development and thought leadership.

This is an environment where curiosity is valued, creative thinking is encouraged, and your development will be supported by experienced professionals committed to helping you grow your skills, confidence, and career pathway - whether towards chartership, professional accreditation, or domain specialisation.

Is this role right for you?

We’re looking for individuals who bring curiosity, analytical ability, and a strong motivation to work in the fusion energy sector. You should be able to demonstrate:

• Ideally a completed Master’s degree or PhD in a fusion‑related area (desirable, not essential) in a relevant science or engineering discipline (e.g., physics, materials science, nuclear science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering or related field)
• Ideally some professional experience in industry or a research environment (placement years welcome)
• Strong digital and data‑handling skills
• Excellent written communication and report‑writing abilities
• Ability to clearly communicate technical concepts to multidisciplinary audiences
• Motivation to develop a career in the fusion sector and contribute to the development of sustainable, future‑facing energy solutions 

Not ready to apply yet? Please contact Ali.Wallace@arup.com with any questions

What we offer you
At Arup, we care about each member’s success, so we can grow together.

Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognises the contribution of each of our members to our shared success. As well as competitive, fair and equitable pay, we offer a career in which all of our members can belong, grow and thrive – through benefits that support health and wellbeing, a wide range of learning opportunities and many possibilities to have an impact through the work they do.

We are owned in trust on behalf of our members, giving us the freedom, with personal responsibility, to set our own direction and choose work that aligns with our purpose and adds to Arup’s legacy. Our members collaborate on ambitious projects to deliver remarkable outcomes for our clients and communities. Profit Share is a key part of our reward, enabling members to share in the results of our collective efforts.

We also provide Private medical insurance, Life assurance, Accident insurance and Income protection cover. In addition, you’ll have access to flexible benefits to help you look after all aspects of your wellbeing and give you the freedom and flexibility to find the best solutions for you, your family, and your individual needs.

Different people, shared values

Arup is an equal opportunity employer that actively promotes and nurtures a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, neurotype or mental health, race or ethnicity, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and whether you’re pregnant or on family leave. We are an open environment that embraces diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas – this drives our excellence.

Guided by our values and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we create and contribute to equitable spaces and systems, while cultivating a sense of belonging for all. Our internal employee networks support our inclusive culture: from race, ethnicity and cross-cultural working to gender equity and LGBTQ+ and disability inclusion – we aim to create a space for you to express yourself and make a positive difference. Discover more about life at Arup at www.arup.com/careers/your-life-at-arup

We are committed to making our recruitment process and workplaces accessible to all candidates. Please contact Ali Wallace via Ali.Wallace@arup.com to let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments throughout your application or interview process, and/or to perform the essential functions of the role. We will do everything we can to support you.

Our Application Process

To understand what to expect next, please visit  https://www.arup.com/careers/arup-careers-uk-application-process

All applications will be considered, and we will make every effort to respond within 72 hours of receipt. Please note that response times may be subject to delays during the festive period.

Stay safe online – Arup will never ask for your bank details as part of our recruitment process.

Recruitment Agencies - We have a Preferred Supplier List of trusted partners to assist us when required and do not acknowledge any speculative CVs or unsolicited candidate introductions from agencies not on the list.

Closing date 06/04/26