PhD Researcher in Nuclear Material Mimics: Join our innovative and interdisciplinary research project focused on the novel and sustainable preparation of nuclear material mimics for Earth applications and space exploration. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of cutting-edge methodologies aimed at recycling nuclear materials and reducing environmental impact.
Novel and Sustainable Production of Nuclear Material Mimics for Earth Applications and Space Exploration Scholarship
Designation: PhD Researcher
Research Area: Novel and sustainable preparation of nuclear material mimics for Earth applications and space exploration
Location: University of Leicester, United Kingdom
Eligibility/Qualification:
- A strong academic background in Physics, Chemistry, or related disciplines
- A keen interest in climate and environmental sustainability
- A passion for contributing to advancements in the nuclear sector and space exploration
- Excellent research and analytical skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
Job Description:
The selected PhD researcher will be responsible for developing and synthesizing lanthanide mixed oxides (Ln-MOX) as nuclear material mimics using novel and sustainable methodologies. The work will involve methodology development, physical characterization, waste stream assessment, and training in modern solid-state synthesis and analytical techniques. The researcher will work within a multidisciplinary team and have the opportunity to contribute to publications and conferences.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants should submit the following documents:
- CENTA studentship application form (downloadable from the CENTA website)
- Curriculum vitae (CV) with the names of at least two referees
- Additional supporting documents as indicated on the University of Leicester’s application portal
Please visit the CENTA PhD Studentships page on the University of Leicester’s website for detailed application instructions. Ensure to quote CENTA 2025-L19 when completing the application form. The deadline for applications is 23:59 GMT on Wednesday, 8th January 2025.
Table:
| Research Project | Novel and Sustainable Production of Nuclear Material Mimics for Earth Applications and Space Exploration |
|---|---|
| Host | University of Leicester |
| Supervisors | Emily Jane Watkinson (ejw38@leicester.ac.uk) Fabrizio Ortu (fabrizio.ortu@leicester.ac.uk) |
| Methdology | Methodology development and synthesis of lanthanide (Ln) Mixed Oxides (Ln-MOX) |
| Training and Skills | Training in modern solid-state synthesis, analytical and spectroscopic techniques, multidisciplinary team participation |
| Possible Timeline | Year 1: Preparation of first generation of Ln-MOX and first round of physical measurements and testing Year 2: Rationalisation of methodology criteria applied to Ln-MOX synthesis and preparation of second materials Year 3: Publication of results with student as named first author (methodology and Ln-MOX characterisation) Extension of methodology to various combinations of lanthanide elements and oxides |
| Further Reading | HM Government, “Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener”, Policy paper, 2021 HM Government, “Powering our Net Zero Future”, White Paper, December 2020 HM Government, “The Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution”, November 2020 Gibney, Mars rover mission will use pioneering nuclear power source, Nature, https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-01487-6 Last accessed 16th August 2024 Do, J.-L., Friščić, T. (2017) ‘Mechanochemistry: A Force of Synthesis’, ACS Central Science, 3(1), pp. 13–19 |
