Details
1113673
University of Leicester
01/07/2026
2 Months
35 hours per week, Monday-Friday
Smart Casual
Pay
-
-
Description
Role
This internship supports a UKAEA funded project focused on improving computational models of electron emission for fusion plasma simulations. The project aligns with UK national fusion programmes, including STEP, and contributes to advancing predictive modelling capabilities for next generation fusion reactors.
Three interns will work collaboratively on complementary modelling and simulation tasks related to plasma material interaction. Each intern will lead a distinct technical component while contributing to a shared simulation framework. The project will deliver validated computational models, simulation outputs, and visualisation tools relevant to fusion reactor design.
Individual Focus Areas (Three Intern Roles):
Intern 1 – Electron Emission Modelling: Implementation and validation of classical and advanced (e.g. semi-analytical/fractional) electron emission models.
Intern 2 – Plasma Simulation Development: Development and execution of plasma simulations to study sheath behaviour and plasma material interaction.
Intern 3 – Data Analysis & Visualisation: Post-processing of simulation results, development of emission regime maps, and creation of visualisation tools. Note: While each intern has a primary focus, the roles are interdependent. Regular interaction and collaboration will be required to ensure integration of models, consistency of simulations, and coherent final outputs.
Project Supervisor: Dr Muhammad Zubair Email: muhammad.zubair@leicester.ac.uk
Please click here for further information on Dr Muhammad Zubair
Hours and days: 35 hours over 5 days
Duration: 8 weeks in summer 2026
Pay Rate: £4,500 total stipend payment
Duties and responsibilities
- Develop and implement analytical/ computational models of electron emission phenomena
- Conduct or analyse plasma simulation studies
- Analyse outputs and generate visualisation tools and regime maps
- Collaborate with fellow interns to integrate models and validate results
- Prepare final technical report and poster presentation
Skills and experience
Essential
- Undergraduate student (UK-based), graduating after September 2026
- Degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related discipline
- Strong analytical and problem-solving ability Basic understanding of computational modelling or simulation concepts
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Willingness to learn new computational tools and methods
Desirable
- Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools
- Exposure to multiphysics simulation (e.g., COMSOL)
- Interest in fusion energy, plasma physics, or advanced materials
- Data analysis and visualisation skills
- Scientific programming experience
- Ability to interpret and present technical results clearly
Location
University of Leicester
Additional information
Please note:
Please ensure to save a copy of this advert if you apply for this post, as it will no longer appear on the website when closed, and you may require this throughout the application process.
Careers Service Support
If you are looking for further support with your application including how to write a CV or Cover Letter, please take a look at the resources here on the UOL Careers & Employability Service webpage. You also have access to CareerSet which provides an instant CV review and guidance on tailoring your application. If you need any more help you can come along to a daily careers drop-in, find us in the Career Hub (David Wilson Library) – no appointment needed!
Citizens of Change
The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world. s a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive
Unitemps is acting as an Employment Business, supplying temporary workers, in relation to this vacancy.
How to apply
Please ensure you apply with a tailored covering letter and CV indicating why you consider yourself suitable for the role. Applications should be send to Dr Muhummad Zubair using the email address muhammad.zubair@leicester.ac.uk