PhD Nuclear Fission DTC: The University of Manchester

Course description

Entry Dates: September

Nuclear FiRST is a flagship programme, run jointly by the Universities of Manchester and Sheffield, which provides the opportunity for outstanding scientists to gain a doctorate level qualification with high level nuclear skills. This programme aims to underpin UK Energy and Defence strategy by addressing a growing doctoral skills gap in nuclear fission science and engineering. They will provide graduates with the necessary skills and practical experience to support cleanup of the historical nuclear legacy, geological disposal of radioactive wastes, a new generation of nuclear power stations, and military nuclear applications. The course will lasts four years (including writing up time) and is built around a research proposal which is developed by the student in conjunction with University and Industrial partners.

The Nuclear FiRST DTC PhD takes four years because they want to give you the opportunity to learn about many other aspects of nuclear fission research, and because they give you the chance to develop your own PhD project. This takes time, which is why they have a four year programme. However, the preparatory year also gives you a head start, so you should be able to make progress rapidly with your PhD, and it should be possible to complete a DTC PhD within the four year period. They have therefore allowed a full four years funding for each student. They also have funding to cover the relatively high running and travel costs of DTC studentships, including support for secondments to overseas laboratories and presenting your results at international conferences.

Career opportunities

Successful graduates are able to progress within a wide variety of roles in nuclear fission science and engineering.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview: They welcome applications from graduates who have, or expect to obtain, a good degree (first class or upper second) in a relevant discipline, such as physical, earth or environmental sciences, or an appropriate branch of engineering.

English language: In addition, applicants will need to demonstrate competency in the English language. Applicants who do not already posses a recognised English Language qualification will need to take a recognised test such as IELTS or TOEFL and attain a minimum of IELTS 6.5 ( with no sub test less than 5.5), TOEFL 570 usually with 5.0 in the TWE (Computer-based 230 or above or Internet-based 88-89 or above).