EPSRC - Understanding the Impact of Electrochemical Phenomena on the In-reactor Corrosion Resistance of Zr-based Alloys

The University of Manchester - Materials

Qualification Type:PhDLocation:ManchesterFunding for:UK StudentsFunding amount:£20,780 - please see advertHours:Full TimePlaced On:3rd February 2026Closes:3rd May 2026

Deadline: All year round

How to apply: uom.link/pgr-apply

UK only

This 3.5-year PhD studentship is open to Home (UK) applicants. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26; subject to annual uplift), and tuition fees will be paid. The start date is October 2026.

About us

The project is jointly offered by the Zr Group and the Materials Performance Group at the University of Manchester - two vibrant, collaborative teams tackling real world challenges in nuclear materials. Together, our groups combine world leading expertise in zirconium alloys, thin film coatings, water chemistry, corrosion, oxidation, and environmental testing in high temperature, high pressure systems.

You will be based at the Henry Royce Institute for Advanced Materials, working closely with both academic teams and with our industrial partner Westinghouse Sweden, a global leader in nuclear fuel technology. Their support provides industrial supervision, insight into real world challenges, and opportunities for engagement with international collaborators.

About your project:

Nuclear reactor materials must survive extreme heat, pressure, and corrosive environments. After the Fukushima accident, there’s been a drive to improve reactor safety through accident-tolerant fuels (ATFs), fuels and components that can better withstand severe conditions. One exciting approach is using protective surface coatings to enhance durability and corrosion resistance of fuel cladding while keeping the proven performance of existing materials.

But in the harsh conditions of a nuclear reactor coatings can fail in ways very different to the materials underneath. Your project will explore how and why coatings degrade using controlled autoclave testing and advanced materials characterisation, uncovering pathways to safer, more resilient nuclear fuels and components.

Key research questions:

1. What are the main degradation mechanisms of coatings, especially for ATF concepts?
2. How do temperature, pressure, and water chemistry affect coating performance?
3. Which coating properties are most important for long-term durability and safety?

What we offer:

During your PhD, you will:

• Join the MIDAS and Zr Group, working alongside experts in nuclear materials (www.zr-midas.org)
• Independence while learning cutting-edge experimental and characterisation techniques
• Present your work at local and international conferences

Rewards:

• Strong mentorship and a supportive team—you’ll never feel stuck
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Competitive, tax-free stipend
• Opportunities for international collaboration and travel
• Develop a range of transferable skills: presentation, leadership, organisation, mentoring
• Join a group with 100% graduate employability, with alumni taking roles in universities, industry, national labs, and research facilities worldwide

Entry requirement

The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

To apply, please contact the main supervisor, Prof Fabio Scenini - fabio.scenini@manchester.ac.uk. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.