Fully-funded PhD Studentship in the detection and quantification of water in spent nuclear fuel

This project addresses the requirement to develop a means to detect and quantify water in spent nuclear fuel. Whilst water is detectable by a variety of hypothetical approaches, its association with spent nuclear fuel introduces a number of significant constraints. In particular, the radiation emitted by the fuel mandates a stand-off, non-destructive approach and the small amounts of water involved rule out mass balance techniques. Hence, in this project we propose an alternative approach based on capture gamma-ray spectroscopy. We shall explore this approach in this PhD study and, if proven, we shall determine whether, in addition to aiding water detection, the technique can also be used to quantify the amount of water present. A good degree in Engineering, Physics or related discipline is required, comprising ideally a significant experimental component.

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Malcolm Joyce ([Email Address Removed]). Candidates interested in applying should send a copy of their CV together with a personal statement/covering letter addressing their background and suitability for this project to Professor Joyce as soon as possible and by the closing date: 30^th April 2023.