At a Glance
- Tasks: Design innovative layered nuclear fuel systems using advanced materials science.
- Company: Bangor University, a leader in nuclear research and development.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD with a competitive stipend and training opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with industry leaders and gain valuable research experience.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on nuclear safety and longevity through cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: First-class or 2:1 degree in STEM; industrial experience considered.
The predicted salary is between 21805 - 21805 £ per year.
Designing layered nuclear fuel systems by improved understanding of Cr‑X and Cr‑Nb‑X alloys.
About The Project
Accident‑tolerant fuel systems are being developed to improve the safety and longevity of nuclear reactors. One promising option is a chromium‑based coating applied to the fuel cladding, which can limit oxidation during a loss‑of‑coolant accident and extend the useful lifetime of the fuel. We are looking for applicants eager to push this concept forward through materials design and development of new layered alloy systems for nuclear power. The successful candidate will apply state‑of‑the‑art computational approaches, combining atomistic (density functional theory) simulations with CALPHAD phase diagram modelling to accelerate materials design and application.
Key Responsibilities
- Design high‑performance materials for layered fuel systems.
- Tackle knowledge gaps in the composition‑dependent properties of chromium alloy (Cr‑X) and chromium‑niobium alloy (Cr‑Nb‑X) systems.
- Build and interpret phase diagrams to guide targeted material design.
- Collaborate with the Nuclear Futures Institute, Westinghouse Electric Company UK Ltd., and other research partners.
Funding and Benefits
- Fully funded four‑year PhD studentship with a tax‑free stipend at the standard UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27, increasing annually).
- 3‑month placement with Westinghouse during the PhD.
- Access to an additional research training support grant for training events, conference attendance, and placements.
- UKRI family leave and pastoral provisions, including maternity, paternity, adoption, and neonatal care leave.
- Start date: October 2026.
Eligibility and Requirements
- A first‑class or 2:1 degree in a relevant STEM subject (e.g., Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Mathematics) is preferred; equivalent industrial experience will also be considered.
- Students must be able to achieve MoD Enhanced BPSS status, a condition of ongoing enrolment and funding.
- Applicants must have Home Fees status and be eligible to work in the UK nuclear industry upon graduation.
Apply
To discuss this opportunity, please contact Dr. Tessa Davey at t.davey@bangor.ac.uk. Formal applications will be submitted through the Bangor University portal.
Designing layered nuclear fuel systems by improved understanding of Cr-X and Cr-Nb-X alloys in Bangor employer: Young Nuclear Professionals' Forum (YNPF)
Bangor University is an exceptional employer, offering a fully funded four-year PhD studentship that not only provides a competitive tax-free stipend but also includes invaluable training opportunities and a three-month placement with Westinghouse Electric Company UK Ltd. The collaborative work culture fosters innovation in nuclear materials research, while the supportive environment ensures that employees can thrive both academically and personally, making it an ideal place for those passionate about advancing safety in nuclear power.
Contact Details:
Young Nuclear Professionals' Forum (YNPF) Recruitment Team
