Research Associate in Irradiation of Nuclear Graphite

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Closing date :03/05/2013
Reference :EPS-02492
Faculty / Organisational unit :Engineering Physical Sciences
School / Directorate :School of Mechanical, Aerospace & Civil Engineering
Division :Mechanical, Aerospace & Civil Engineering
Salary : 29,541 to £36,298 per annum according to relevant experience
Employment type :Fixed Term
Duration:available from 1st May 2013 and tenable to 30th April 2016
Hours per week :Full time
Location :Manchester

The Nuclear Graphite Research Group (NGRG) was established at the University of Manchester in 2001 by the Office of Nuclear Regulation (ONR), to provide independent advice and research to the Regulator on the structural integrity of the graphite core of UK advanced gas-cooled reactors (AGRs) and Generation IV high temperature reactors. This is now established as a world leading group in nuclear graphite reactor core behaviour.

Graphite bricks are structural components at the heart of the AGR cores. Since they cannot be repaired or replaced, their integrity is one of two major potential life-limiting features in the AGRs (the other being the steam generators). Their integrity is governed by a balance between internal stress (generated by cross-component differentials in material ageing), irradiation-induced creep in graphite (which is the mechanism by which these in-service stresses can be mitigated) and strength. Currently, this is an area where there is considerable uncertainty, which challenges forecasts of the reliability of graphite moderated cores. Current models for irradiation-induced creep are largely empirical. The project aims to improve upon this position using a combination of theoretical and experimental studies througha collaboration between EDF Nuclear Generation, University of Surrey, and the University of Manchester.

In Manchester, modelling and experimental studies to explain the behaviour of the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) with irradiation and applied stress will be undertaken. Currently, all attempts at first principles modelling of response of CTE of current nuclear grade graphites to irradiation fail to explain the fall in CTE at moderate dose. It is strongly suspected that the missing link is the interaction between differing regions within the microstructure of graphite. This work package will seek to develop models that incorporate these interactions and provide experimental validation for the approach, either by extension of existing microstructural analysis techniques or development of approaches tailored to the interface between crystallites.

The position is for a full-time a Research Associate employed for a fixed term of 36 months. This will give the applicant the opportunity to work closely with the nuclear industry. The RA will be responsible for the direction of the research and for communicating the findings to the collaborating parties, the funding body, and peers within the research field via presentations at international conferences, reports, and journal publications.

Applicants must have a PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline and ideallybe proficient in the use of one or more of the relevant experimental techniques (XRD, SANS, SEM, tomography). Experience of nuclear graphite would also be beneficial but is not essential.  Good communication skills, time management, and team working skills will be necessary. Familiarity in using ABAQUS user materials (UMATs) and in programming (Fortran and Matlab) would be an advantage.  Training in finite element methods or graphite technology would be provided to a less experienced candidate who was able to demonstrate related or equivalent experience.

Informal enquiries

Informal enquiries can be made to Professor Paul Mummery:

Email: paul.mummery@manchester.ac.uk

The University of Manchester values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Further particulars

• EPS-02492 Research Associate   (PDF, 52. Kb)

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