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- Tasks: Explore radiation effects in RAFM steel welds for fusion reactors through innovative research.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham, a leader in fusion energy research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a tax-free stipend, mentorship, and collaboration with top international institutions.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking research with real-world impact in sustainable energy solutions.
- Qualifications: First or upper-second-class degree in relevant fields; no prior experience required.
- Other info: Funding available for UK students only; apply online or reach out for informal inquiries.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 22000 £ per year.
A 3.5-year UK PhD studentship is available at the University of Birmingham with a tax-free stipend at UKRI rate. The project is collaborated with Oxford Sigma, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) in Germany, French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS)’s JANNUS irradiation facility and CEA-Saclay.
Background: RAFM steels are promising candidates for most fusion reactor first-wall/blanket concepts. A key challenge is the very narrow safe operating temperature window envisaged for RAFM steels, between 350 – 550 °C, in an irradiation environment of fusion reactors. The lower temperature limit, which is a major design-limiting challenge for Demonstration Power Plant (DEMO), is imposed due to the well-known low-temperature hardening/embrittlement (LTHE) phenomenon under irradiation, where the steel hardens with severe loss of ductility & toughness. The upper temperature limit is imposed due to cyclic softening, poor creep strength and creep-fatigue coupling in this class of materials. In addition to base material, a key requirement for fusion in-vessel components is understanding radiation tolerance of welds because complex and large fusion in-vessel components will inevitably need to be joined together. Presently, very little is known regarding irradiation effects in welds of RAFM steels. This seriously limits our understanding of safe operating limits of these welds in fusion’s extreme environment with very high neutron doses (80 to 150 displacements per atom), elevated temperatures and with simultaneous presence of gaseous transmutation products like helium (He) and hydrogen (H) – which can synergistically modify the microstructure development in materials.
This PhD will reveal the key irradiation-induced microstructure phenomenon in RAFM welds using in-situ & ex-situ energetic ion irradiations as a surrogate for neutron irradiations and reveal the microstructure origins of RAFM weld degradation expected in fusion-relevant conditions.
The Project: Using in-situ & ex-situ ion irradiations, this PhD project will evaluate the effect of irradiation and transmutant gases on microstructure evolution in e-beam-, laser- and TIG-welded RAFM steels – the knowledge of which is currently limited in the fusion community. Some key questions to study include, but not limited to:
- Understanding the effect of irradiation dose & temperature on microstructure evolution in RAFM welds & heat-affected zones.
- Understanding helium’s role on vacancy-type and interstitial-type extended defects in welds.
- Triple synergy between ballistic damage and He/H on weld microstructural evolution.
Supervision and International Collaborations: You will be based at the University of Birmingham and will be co-supervised by Oxford Sigma. You will have a unique opportunity to engage with fusion leaders from KIT/Germany, and JANNuS facility at CNRS-Orsay & CEA-Saclay in France. As a member of the Fission & Fusion Energy Sciences group you will work in a friendly, diverse, inclusive and collaborative environment that nurtures excellence and innovation in fission/fusion energy. Besides targeting academic success, this PhD will provide you the necessary mentorship for a prosperous post-PhD career.
Who we are looking for: A first or upper-second-class degree in an appropriate discipline such as, materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry, nuclear engineering, fusion/nuclear energy, chemical engineering, or mechanical engineering to name a few. No prior experience is mandatory. Knowledge of nuclear materials would be advantageous. A driven individual with an inquisitive mind.
How to apply: Informal inquiries should be sent to Professor Arun Bhattacharya at a.bhattacharya.1@bham.ac.uk, Dr. Alasdair Morrison at alasdair.morrison@oxfordsigma.com. Please include your CV and transcripts. Apply online on this link: https://sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/EPS024.htm
Funding notes: Funding available for UK students only.
Radiation effects in reduced activation ferritic-martensitic (RAFM) steel welds for fusion firs[...] employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
a.bhattacharya.1@bham.ac.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Radiation effects in reduced activation ferritic-martensitic (RAFM) steel welds for fusion firs[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research on RAFM steels and their behaviour under irradiation. This will not only help you understand the project better but also allow you to engage in informed discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Reach out to current or former PhD students in similar fields to gain insights into their experiences. They can provide valuable advice on what to expect and how to stand out in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Attend relevant seminars or workshops related to fusion energy and materials science. Networking at these events can help you make connections with professionals in the field, which could be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and the research team when you reach out for informal inquiries. This shows your genuine interest and enthusiasm for the position, making a positive impression on the supervisors.
We think you need these skills to ace Radiation effects in reduced activation ferritic-martensitic (RAFM) steel welds for fusion firs[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description. Understand the key challenges and objectives of the PhD project related to RAFM steel welds and how your background aligns with these.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant academic achievements, particularly in materials science, nuclear engineering, or related fields. Emphasise any projects or coursework that relate to fusion energy or materials under irradiation.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains your motivation for applying, your interest in the research area, and how your skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate for this PhD position.
Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather all necessary documents such as your CV, academic transcripts, and any recommendation letters. Ensure they are up-to-date and reflect your qualifications for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Understand the Project Scope
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the PhD project, especially the challenges related to RAFM steels and their behaviour under irradiation. Being able to discuss these topics will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills
Make sure to emphasise any relevant skills or knowledge you have in materials science, nuclear engineering, or related disciplines. Even if you lack direct experience, showcasing your academic background and any related projects can make a strong impression.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the project, the team, and the collaborations involved. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
✨Show Your Inquisitive Nature
Since the role requires a driven individual with an inquisitive mind, be prepared to discuss how you approach problem-solving and research. Share examples of how you've tackled complex questions or projects in the past.
