Early Careers - Scientific Computing, Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

Shape your career with us

Our research is advancing scientific discovery across the globe. See how you could be a part of that, launching your tech career in a dynamic, creative, and collaborative culture.

Our graduate programmes

Our award-winning graduate scheme offers structured training, a real job with real responsibilities from day one, and a direct route to professional accreditation.

STFC Scientific Computing graduates typically experience four projects within the department, and one three-month project in another department. These vary depending on the current needs in the department.

Hear from some of our previous graduates below.

"My time on the Scientific Computing Graduate Scheme has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve had the chance to work with diverse teams, where I’ve been able to make a real impact. What stands out most is the how eager everyone is to support learning and share knowledge, especially among early career staff - questions are always encouraged!"

Elizabeth Salmon, SC Graduate

“I’m always learning at STFC, and every day is different. Our teams are creating real change for the scientific community through exciting developments and breakthroughs so it’s always special to have the opportunity to be a part of that.”

Rebecca Fair, Software Developer, SCD Theoretical and Computational Physics group

Our apprenticeship programme

STFC Scientific Computing’s apprenticeship scheme enables you to kick-start your tech career and gain a recognised degree-level qualification.

We recruit Computing Apprentices to work at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. You will be based in a group with computing professionals in one of three departments, rotating between these to gain comprehensive experience. These placements complement formal training as you work towards a fully funded Foundation Degree in Computing.

You may be offered a permanent position at the end of the scheme, with the opportunity to continue learning and convert to a fully recognised BSc honours degree.

Hear from some of our previous apprentices below.

“I’ve thrived on the STFC apprenticeship. It has opened the doors for me to study whilst also gaining hands-on experience in the industry. The variety of work meant I could try a few different projects and explore areas I didn't know would interest me.”

Matthew Richards, former Computing Degree Apprentice, Scientific Computing, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory

“We work closely with professionals in the industry who are always willing to answer questions and help the next generation of apprentices. We rotate between different departments, giving us a good variety of knowledge as to what goes on at Scientific Computing".

Kieran Howlett, Computing Degree Apprentice, SCD Data and Software Engineering Group

"I joined STFC as a Business Administration Apprentice, and the programme gave me some amazing opportunities to develop my knowledge and skills whilst being supported through my qualifications. I even had the chance to work with and learn from world-leading researchers and professionals across STFC, external institutions and industry."

Georgia Lomas, Scientific Computing Administrator, Daresbury Laboratory

“I was placed across several different teams in ISIS and the Scientific Computing and Technology departments. I developed and looked after various front and back-end software components, and have now started a full-time graduate role, supporting the team with my knowledge and skills.”

Viktor Bozhinov, Software Engineer, SC Data & Software Engineering Group

“STEM is as important as ever – there will never be a lack of need for STEM careers. The variety of interesting opportunities has already paved the way for a fascinating and diverse working career. In my current role, seeing the work that I do being used by people all over the world is surreal."

Rowan Moss, Computer Science Degree Apprentice, Harwell Campus

Our industrial placement programme

STFC Scientific Computing offers industrial placement opportunities for university students looking to embed a year of work experience into their degree. These placements are opportunities to interact with research, software engineering, communications and more, giving you valuable experience and skills for your future career. You may be offered a graduate role at the end of the placement!

STFC Scientific Computing is one of many departments that offer placement opportunities; there’s a vibrant community of placement students for you to join. Support is also offered through the Early Careers Team at STFC, which run group events, mentoring and soft skills training.

Applications for 2026/27 are currently open.

Hear from some of our previous industrial placement students below.

“The placement has given me a lot of clarity. By taking the projects that I’ve enjoyed working on, and the aspects of this job that I enjoyed the most, it’s given me more ideas about what I could want for the future."

Esme Mirzoeff, Former Science Communication Industrial Placement, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory

"As an engineer, I've got better at researching and learning new technologies, managing my work with git, and making balanced implementation decisions. As an employee, I've learned to stick to a 9-5 schedule vs a more sporadic schedule at university and manage the responsibilities and complexities that arise day to day. None of this growth would have been possible without experience; university focusses more on theory, which is also essential but insufficient alone."

Anikesh Suresh, Former Research Software Engineer Industrial Placement, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory

“I've learnt a lot of practical writing, editing and design skills from my work and I definitely feel a lot more confident and optimistic about my future now than I did at the start of my placement. Learning how the working world works beyond university has been invaluable."

Cora Jamieson, Former Science Content Management, Daresbury Laboratory