The nuclear sector isn't just about maintaining what we already have – it's about innovation, problem-solving, and developing new approaches that will shape our energy and defence landscape for decades to come.
Our commitments to the nuclear deterrent, the AUKUS programme, and expected growth in civil nuclear including new Gigawatt nuclear power plants advanced nuclear technologies (Small Modular Reactors and Advanced Modular Reactors) and expanding decommissioning activities all rely on deep technical expertise. That's where PhD-level specialists come in.
Progress is already being made – in 2024 alone, an additional 21 nuclear fission PhD students have been funded as a direct result of the Nuclear Skills Plan. But we need more bright minds to join this community of experts.
For Potential PhD Candidates
What's in it for you?
Pursuing a PhD in a nuclear-related discipline offers interesting opportunities and benefits:
- Tackle real-world challenges that affect national security and energy resilience
- Access world-class facilities across the UK's research and industry landscape
- Connect with a community of leading experts in nuclear science and engineering
- Build a career path as a highly sought-after specialist in a growing sector
- Contribute to innovation that has a genuine impact on some of society's biggest challenges
Research Areas
PhD-level expertise across a range of disciplines are required for the future of the nuclear sector, including:
- Nuclear physics and engineering
- Materials science
- Radiation effects and protection
- Nuclear fuel cycles
- Modelling and simulation
- Robotics and remote handling
- Environmental science and remediation
- Nuclear safety and security
For Organisations
The Value of PhD Expertise
For nuclear organisations, supporting PhD research and recruiting PhD graduates brings significant benefits:
- Access to cutting-edge research that addresses specific technical challenges
- Development of specialist knowledge that's critical for programme delivery
- Building capabilities for innovation and future development
- Contributing to the UK's position as a global leader in nuclear expertise
- Creating a pipeline of future technical leaders
How to Get Involved
Organisations can support the development of PhD-level expertise through:
- Sponsoring PhD studentships at universities with relevant programmes
- Collaborating with Centres for Doctoral Training
- Providing industry placements for PhD students
- Contributing to research projects that align with your technical needs
- Creating career pathways for PhD graduates within your organisation
Centres for Doctoral Training
The Nuclear Skills Plan includes exploring opportunities to increase the number of Centres for Doctoral Training to support the growth in PhD numbers. These centres bring together academic and industry expertise to provide high-quality training for doctoral students.
Next Steps
Ready to explore PhD opportunities in the nuclear sector?
- Connect with universities offering nuclear-related doctoral programmes
- Explore funding opportunities through Research Councils and industry sponsors
- Check the Destination Nuclear Careers Portal for PhD opportunities
- Reach out to nuclear organisations about their research interests and needs
