Re-examining Radiological Protection Criteria - Conservatism, Misapplication, and Policy Reform

About the Project

This project is funded by the Nuclear Doctoral Focal Award in Radiation Protection, Nuclear Safety and Environmental Sustainability (RAPTOR) which offers students a coordinated, industry-engaged route to develop cutting edge expertise. The goal is to train 60 PhD students to deliver practical solutions across the civil and defence nuclear sectors with work shaped by national priorities, scientific curiosity and real world needs from industry.

This PhD will critically evaluate the scientific basis, embedded conservatisms, and regulatory application of key radiological protection criteria used in the UK and internationally. The research will focus on how numerical criteria - originally developed as precautionary screening or optimisation tools - are operationalised in regulatory decision-making and how cumulative conservatisms influence policy outcomes, licensing conditions, transport constraints, and industrial cost structures.

The project will deliver an evidence-based framework for recalibrating selected radiological protection criteria to ensure they remain proportionate, risk-informed, and aligned with contemporary scientific understanding while preserving high standards of protection.

The student recruited to this project will be part of RAPTOR a new EPSRC doctoral training programme focused on radiation protection, environmental sustainability and nuclear safety. You will be based at the University of Liverpool and will undertake an intensive training programme in year 1 which leads to a PgCert, co-designed and co-delivered by partner institutions and Industry. This PhD programme offers a unique opportunity to join a vibrant, inclusive cohort focused on addressing major interdisciplinary challenges in nuclear science and engineering. It unites leading academic expertise with strong partnerships across the nuclear industry and will train students in nationally critical skills in cutting edge nuclear technologies.

Candidates wishing to apply should complete the University of Liverpool application form to apply for a PhD in Physics.

Please review our guide on How to apply for a PhD | Postgraduate research | University of Liverpool carefully and complete the online postgraduate research application form to apply for this PhD project.

Please ensure you include the project title and reference number RAPTOR001  when applying.

This UKRI funded Studentship will cover full tuition fees (for 2026-27 this is £5,238 pa.) and pay a maintenance grant for 4 years, at an enhanced stipend rate (for 2026-27 this is £26,000 pa.) The Studentship also comes with access to additional funding in the form of a Research Training Support Grant to fund consumables, conference attendance, etc.

UKRI Studentships are available to any prospective student wishing to apply including both home and international students. While UKRI funding will not cover international fees, a limited number of scholarships to meet the fee difference will be available to support outstanding international students.

We want all of our Staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, If you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result. We believe everyone deserves an excellent education and encourage students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply.