Saturn_Nuclear_CDT
UoM_Nuclear
Graphite is a critical material for several advanced reactor technologies, including High Temperature Gas Reactors (HTGRs) and some Molten Salt Reactor (MSR) concepts, where it performs essential moderator, reflector and structural functions. Beyond the nuclear industries, graphite is increasingly recognised as a strategically important and critical mineral due to its role in energy technologies and advanced manufacturing. As demand for graphite continues to grow, there is increasing interest in developing sustainable supply chains and circular economy approaches that reduce reliance on virgin resources while maintaining material performance.
The UK possesses a unique opportunity in this area through its substantial inventory of nuclear graphite. More than 100,000 tonnes of irradiated graphite will arise from the UK's graphite-moderated reactor fleet, creating both a decommissioning challenge and a potential resource for future generations. If suitable treatment, purification and reprocessing routes can be developed, this material could contribute to future graphite value chains, reducing disposal requirements while supporting the needs of emerging low-carbon energy technologies.
This PhD project will investigate how graphitisation influences the structure, properties, chemistry and reuse potential of recycled graphite materials derived from nuclear graphite treatment and using blended virgin graphite-rich feedstocks. Closely aligned with the UKRI-funded ENLIGHT programme, the research seeks to establish the scientific understanding needed to determine whether recycled graphite can be transformed into materials suitable for future nuclear and non-nuclear applications. The student will join a multidisciplinary research environment and develop a complementary portfolio of skills spanning graphite recycling, materials characterisation, high-temperature testing and sustainable nuclear materials management.
About SATURN
This PhD is based with the SATURN Centre for Doctoral Training. SATURN is made up form a consortium of NW Universities that include Manchester, Bangor, Leeds, Liverpool, Lancaster, Sheffield and Strathclyde. The ethos of the programme is to recruit students from across STEM and give them the necessary skills and training to become a subject matter expert in the nuclear sector in either industry or academia. You will be recruited with a cohort of other researchers all looking at nuclear- focused research but from across the breadth of the sector. Your training will include an introduction to nuclear course, as well as opportunities to do a deep dive in the areas that really interest you. You will also have the opportunity to broaden your experience and skills by visiting internationally relevant facilities, having an industry secondment, undertaking leadership training, and involving yourself in outreach and public engagement activities. If this sounds like the sort of opportunity that you are looking for, we would love to hear from you.
- Nuclear Boot Camp (Months 1 - 3)
The Bootcamp is based in Manchester. For any of our students based at partner institutions, SATURN can offer you accommodation in Manchester and cover the cost.
Eligibility
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.
Before you apply
We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Abbie Jones at abbie.jones@manchester.ac.uk.
Projects are subject to funding confirmation
How to apply
Please complete the Enquiry Form to express your interest. We strongly recommend you contact the project supervisor after completing the form to speak to them about your suitability for the project.
If your qualifications meet our standard entry requirements, the CDT Admissions Team will send your enquiry form and CV to the named project supervisor.
Our application process can also be found on our website: here If you have any questions, please contact SATURN@manchester.ac.uk.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.
We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.
We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).
INGNITE NETWORK
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/about/news/new-13m-nuclear-programme-to-boost-uk-energy-security-through-sustainable-graphite-innovation/
