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: Building on recent advances in the Convolutional Multiple Whole Profile (CMWP) method, this PhD project will develop real-time CMWP analysis with in situ neutron diffraction at 300 °C under mechanical loading to reveal dislocation evolution, hydride precipitation and reorientation in zirconium alloys. The rich experimental datasets produced, linking microstructural evolution to hydride behaviour, will be used to calibrate and validate (crystal plasticity) finite element models capable of predicting (anisotropic) deformation and hydride-induced failure under light water reactor conditions. This integrated approach promises both deeper mechanistic insight into zirconium alloy performance and improved predictive tools for the lifetime assessment of nuclear reactor components.
Supervisor(s): Dr Xingzhong Liang (UoB) and Prof Chris Truman (UoB)
Institution: University of Bristol (UoB)
Further information: Funded by ISIS Neutron Source
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.
