Nuclear Energy Futures CDT Research Projects
https://www.imperial.ac.uk/nuclear-cdt/programme/nuclear-energy-futures-cdt-research-projects/
Projects available for October 2025
Applications are invited for the below projects.
Please ensure you have read our updated programme description before applying for projects.
Please check back for new projects. If you have contacted Dr Jonathan Tate about being added to our mailing list, you will be notified via email when new positions become available. If you wish to be added to our mailing list, please contact Jonathan at j.tate@imperial.ac.uk
Due to the sensitive nature of the research being carried out, some projects may require you to be a UK national.
Short project description: This PhD project aims to develop a design-integrated Unified Failure Curve (UFC) methodology tailored to design, condition monitoring and structural integrity assessment of fusion reactor components. Building on the inherent connection between load, crack driving forces, and plastic collapse parameters, the project will explore how UFC principles can be embedded directly into the design process of fusion-critical components such as first wall panels, divertor structures, and high-heat-flux modules. The work will combine analytical and finite element modelling with experimental validation under relevant loading conditions, including high temperature, and complex stress states. The outcomes will directly contribute to UKAEA’s goal of developing reliable, manufacturable, and inspectable fusion reactor components for DEMO and beyond.
Supervisor(s): Dr Nicolas Larrosa (UoB) and Prof Chris Truman (UoB)
Institution: University of Bristol
Further information: Funded by United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA)
Part-time: Not suitable for part-time study.
How to apply: E-mail your CV to Dr Jon Tate j.tate@imperial.ac.uk
Deadline: Ongoing until position is filled.
