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- Tasks: Conduct computational modelling of hydrogen isotope transport in ceramic coatings for fusion powerplants.
- Company: Join a leading research team at Bangor University and UK Atomic Energy Authority focused on fusion materials.
- Benefits: Gain insights into the fusion industry, access to UKAEA facilities, and develop advanced skills.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research with real-world impact on sustainable energy solutions.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree in materials, physics, computer science, chemistry, engineering, or related field required.
- Other info: Opportunities to work at the Culham Campus near Oxford and collaborate on innovative projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Future fusion powerplants must maintain tritium inventory to ensure safe and sustainable plant operation. A breeder blanket containing liquid Li can be used to breed tritium from Li inside the fusion device. However, Li is corrosive to structural steels, and coatings are needed to inhibit tritium permeation and enhance corrosion resistance. Ceramic coatings such as tungsten oxide, erbium oxide, and yttrium oxide are effective tritium barriers and can be paired with corrosion-resistant topcoats such as tungsten. However, the behaviour of tritium in ceramics is not well understood, making it difficult to accurately predict tritium inventory.
This project will use computational atomistic modelling methods, including quantum mechanical density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics, to simulate deuterium and tritium diffusion in erbium oxide coatings and tungsten oxide-tungsten metal interfaces. These predictions will be compared with experimental data from UKAEA’s coating programme. DFT and molecular dynamics using machine-learned interatomic potentials will assess grain boundary diffusion at the tungsten/tungsten oxide interfaces, with grain boundary type and volume fraction informed by microstructural analysis (scanning electron microscopy) of tungsten coatings.
The selected candidate will join a team developing ceramic coatings for fusion, collaborating on both experimental and computational techniques. They will also be part of a UKAEA PhD network, gaining insights into the fusion industry and visiting UKAEA facilities. Opportunities to work at the Culham Campus near Oxford are available. The PhD candidate will develop advanced computational, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and fusion materials knowledge, along with transferrable skills.
Applicants should have an interest in high-performance computing, effective communication skills, and a relevant degree in materials, physics, computer science, chemistry, engineering, or a related field.
This PhD studentship is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Fusion Power – EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in the Science and Technology of Fusion Energy.
Modelling of Hydrogen Isotope Transport in Ceramic Coatings for Future Fusion Powerplants employer: Bangor University
Contact Detail:
Bangor University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Modelling of Hydrogen Isotope Transport in Ceramic Coatings for Future Fusion Powerplants
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in fusion materials, particularly focusing on ceramic coatings and tritium transport. This will not only help you understand the project better but also allow you to engage in informed discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former PhD candidates in the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Fusion Power. They can provide valuable insights into the application process and what to expect from the programme, which can give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your computational skills by working on relevant projects or simulations that involve DFT or molecular dynamics. Having practical examples to discuss can significantly strengthen your candidacy.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and the team during your interview. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you stand out as a proactive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Modelling of Hydrogen Isotope Transport in Ceramic Coatings for Future Fusion Powerplants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Read through the job description thoroughly to grasp the specifics of the project. Familiarise yourself with terms like tritium inventory, ceramic coatings, and computational atomistic modelling, as these will be crucial in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in materials science, physics, or engineering. Include any projects or coursework related to high-performance computing or fusion materials, as this will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the project and the fusion industry. Discuss your interest in computational methods and how your background aligns with the requirements outlined in the job description.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since effective communication is essential for this role, provide examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to convey complex ideas clearly, whether through previous research presentations or collaborative projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bangor University
✨Show Your Passion for Fusion Energy
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for fusion energy and its potential. Discuss any relevant projects or experiences that sparked your interest in this field, as it will demonstrate your commitment to the subject matter.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills
Be prepared to discuss your background in materials science, physics, or engineering. Emphasise your experience with computational modelling, particularly if you have worked with DFT or molecular dynamics before. This will show that you have the technical skills needed for the role.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask Dr. Tessa Davey and the industrial supervisors about the project and their expectations. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the position aligns with your career goals.
✨Demonstrate Effective Communication Skills
Since effective communication is crucial in collaborative environments, practice explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely. You might be asked to present your ideas or findings, so being articulate will set you apart from other candidates.
