Work Experience at the UK Astronomy Technology Centre (ROE)
The UK Astronomy Technology Centre is sited at the Royal Observatory of Edinburgh, along with part of the Edinburgh University Institute for Astronomy, and the Royal Observatory Visitor Centre. The UK ATC is the national centre for astronomical technology. Our specialist engineers design and build instruments for many of the world's major telescopes. We also project-manage UK and international collaborations. Our project scientists carry out observational and theoretical research into fundamental questions such as the origins of planets and of galaxies.
The UK ATC is a major establishment of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). Inspiring young people and the wider public is one of the STFC's main objectives. This is achieved through a focused programme of public engagement, promoting careers in science, engineering and technology to maintain the quality of the UK programme. In line with this commitment UK ATC offer a limited number of work experience placements over the course of a year.
Application Process
The first step is to download and complete the application form:
Work Experience Application Form [Doc/96 KB]
This form includes an Indemnity form for your school to sign. Please complete pages 1 to 3.
Important Dates
For the next school year closing dates for applications are as follows;
| Date | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Applications for October to December 2012 | 14th September 2012 |
| Applications for January to March 2013 | 1st November 2012 |
| Applications for April to June 2013 | 1st February 2013 |
Once you have completed pages 1 to 3 of the application form send it back to the email address ukatcworkexp@stfc.ac.uk by the relevant date. Unfortunately, due to the demand for work experience placements, applications for the relevant term cannot be taken after the closing date.
After the closing date, you will receive a letter by email or post confirming whether your application has been successful or not. If you have been successful your placement supervisor will get in touch. At this point pages 4 to 7 of the application form will be completed.