Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Explore circular economy principles in nuclear decommissioning through big data analysis and life cycle assessment.
- Company: Join a leading research initiative supported by EPSRC and Sellafield Ltd, focusing on sustainable nuclear practices.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fully funded PhD with a tax-free stipend and generous research support over four years.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability and net-zero goals while gaining valuable research experience.
- Qualifications: Open to UK or EU students with three years residency; passion for environmental science is essential.
- Other info: This project is part of the SATURN Centre for Doctoral Training, fostering innovation in nuclear energy.
The predicted salary is between 19237 - 19237 £ per year.
About the Project
The European Union's recognition of nuclear energy as a green energy source in July 2022 spurred increased investment in the industry, yet challenges persist in managing and disposing of nuclear waste. As more countries consider nuclear power to address the energy crisis, effective waste management is paramount for a successful transition.
The conventional linear economic model is giving way to the circular economy approach, emphasising waste reduction and resource optimisation through practices such as reducing, reusing, and recycling. Nuclear decommissioning yields materials that can be recycled and repurposed, offering potential benefits, though the literature on resource efficiency and environmental impact in the nuclear sector remains limited.
This PhD project aims to fill this gap by investigating the intersection of circular economy principles and whole life cycle strategies in nuclear decommissioning aided by big data analysis. It will analyse various materials involved, including radioactive and non-radioactive materials, to understand the implications of adopting circularity and environmental impact reduction strategies. This project seeks to inform decision-making in nuclear decommissioning, focusing on security, sustainability, and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
It will identify areas for intervention and examine unintended consequences of circular economy practices using material flow analysis, life cycle assessment and machine learning methodologies. For instance, the project will evaluate whether producing low-cost concrete from nuclear waste aligns with circular economy principles or if there are more environmentally friendly alternatives. It will also assess whether establishing circular routes for materials results in the lowest overall environmental impact throughout the life cycle.
The project will be part of the EPSRC-supported Centre for Doctoral Training in SATURN (Skills And Training Underpinning a Renaissance in Nuclear). This is a fully funded PhD studentship, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and Sellafield Ltd. The funding covers tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend for 4 years, commencing at £19,237 at the start of the project. It is available for a student from the UK or from the EU with 3 years residency in the UK. There will be a £46,500 research support and training grant over the lifetime of the award.
Integrating Circular Economy Principles and Life Cycle Assessment in Nuclear Decommissioning employer: International Society for Industrial Ecology
Contact Detail:
International Society for Industrial Ecology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Integrating Circular Economy Principles and Life Cycle Assessment in Nuclear Decommissioning
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in circular economy principles and life cycle assessment, especially as they relate to nuclear decommissioning. This knowledge will not only help you understand the project better but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the nuclear energy sector and those involved in circular economy initiatives. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to make connections and gain insights that could be beneficial for your application and future role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase any relevant experience you have with big data analysis, material flow analysis, or machine learning methodologies. Being able to discuss specific projects or coursework where you've applied these skills can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the environmental impacts of nuclear waste management and the potential benefits of recycling materials. This will not only prepare you for interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to sustainable practices in the nuclear industry.
We think you need these skills to ace Integrating Circular Economy Principles and Life Cycle Assessment in Nuclear Decommissioning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Familiarise yourself with the project's objectives and the significance of integrating circular economy principles in nuclear decommissioning. This will help you tailor your application to demonstrate your understanding and enthusiasm for the topic.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any relevant academic or professional experience related to circular economy, life cycle assessment, or nuclear engineering. Be specific about your contributions and achievements in these areas.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Your personal statement should reflect your motivation for applying to this PhD project. Discuss your interest in sustainability and nuclear energy, and how your background aligns with the goals of the research. Make it personal and engaging.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for clarity, grammar, and spelling errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in research roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at International Society for Industrial Ecology
✨Understand Circular Economy Principles
Familiarise yourself with the key concepts of circular economy and how they apply to nuclear decommissioning. Be prepared to discuss how these principles can enhance waste management and resource optimisation in your responses.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since the project involves big data analysis, highlight any relevant experience you have with data analysis tools or methodologies. Be ready to explain how you would approach analysing materials for life cycle assessment.
✨Discuss Environmental Impact
Be prepared to talk about the environmental implications of nuclear waste management. Think about potential strategies for reducing environmental impact and be ready to share your thoughts on sustainable practices in the nuclear sector.
✨Prepare Questions About the Project
Demonstrate your interest by preparing insightful questions about the project and its objectives. This shows that you are engaged and have done your homework, which can leave a positive impression on the interviewers.
