Project Overview
About the Position
This 4-year PhD/EngD project aims to design refractory high-entropy alloys (HEAs) resistant to irradiation damage for advanced modular nuclear reactors (AMRs).
| Opportunity | Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors |
| Host | University of Birmingham |
| Location | Birmingham, United Kingdom |
| Study Level | PhD, Engd |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Stipend | £26,805 per year (tax-free, enhanced rate) |
| Application Deadline | 6 November 2026 |
| Apply | Official application page ↗ |
Basic Information
- Full Project Title: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors
- Host Institution: University of Birmingham
- Department: School of Metallurgy and Materials
- Supervisor: Prof. Sandy Knowles
- Industry Partner: UK National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL)
- Study Level: PhD / EngD
- Duration: 4 years
- Start Date: 2026 cohort
- Funding Type: Fully Funded (UK students)
- Stipend: £26,805 per year (tax-free, enhanced rate)
- Tuition Fees: Covered
- Eligibility: UK students
- Application Deadline: 6 November 2026
- Programme: PANDA DFA training programme included
Project Description
This 4-year PhD/EngD project aims to design refractory high-entropy alloys (HEAs) resistant to irradiation damage for advanced modular nuclear reactors (AMRs). The research will involve computational design of new alloys, production via arc melting or additive manufacturing, and characterisation using advanced electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. The project includes the PANDA DFA training programme.
Contact
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.
Official Link
Full announcement and application portal: https://panda.ac.uk/p020/
Source: panda.ac.uk - the details in this listing were recorded from this official page.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 6 November 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
About University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham is a public research university in Birmingham, England, and a Russell Group member. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral study across engineering, medicine, science, business, humanities and social sciences. Research and teaching bring together different disciplines to investigate challenges affecting health, technology, communities and the environment.
Official website: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/
How to Apply
Apply via the relevant Metallurgy & Materials / Nuclear PhD programme.
Application guides
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors?
The application deadline is 6 November 2026. Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off (Europe/London time) and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source names Europe/London but gives no clock time.
Is Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. £26,805 per year (tax-free, enhanced rate).
Who is eligible to apply for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors?
This listing is open to UK applicants only. If you are applying from outside the UK, this one will not accept your application — filter United Kingdom listings by residency before you spend time on it. Applications are assessed by University of Birmingham.
How do I apply for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors?
Applications for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors are submitted directly to University of Birmingham through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for United Kingdom are published by the provider.
What study level does Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Irradiation-Damage-Resistant Refractory High-Entropy Alloys for Advanced Modular Reactors offer?
This listing is offered at PhD / EngD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.
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