Designing layered nuclear fuel systems improved understanding of Cr-X and Cr-Nb-X alloys

Designing layered nuclear fuel systems by improved understanding of Cr‑X and Cr‑Nb‑X alloys.

Bangor University – Bangor, Gwynedd, Wales, United Kingdom.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

To discuss this opportunity, please contact Dr. Tessa Davey at  Formal applications will be submitted through the Bangor University portal.