Developing a simulator for a zero power nuclear reactor experimental facility for innovative

Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) are a next-generation nuclear reactor technology outlined by Generation IV International Forum, fulfilling sustainability, economics, safety, and proliferation resistance goals. The interest in MSRs attention from industry and research communities has significantly increased in recent years due to the numerous safety and operational benefits. MSRs have the potential to close the nuclear fuel cycle, significantly reduce the amount of nuclear waste produced, and even operate on spent nuclear fuel from existing nuclear reactors, while opening the opportunity for significantly reducing the fuel cycle and the production cost of energy.

In the frame of developing an innovative reactor system, a zero power experiment is the first important step, which, if successful, a stepping stone into a considerably large and complex programme. In addition, it is often seen as a low-cost and low-risk opportunity to study a novel reactor system. Among other things, the zero-power experiment could provide valuable data for validation and verification of nuclear codes, create an improved understanding of the developing system and prove its safety to the regulator. It will educate the UK in designing, licensing, constructing, commissioning, and operating a new kind of innovative reactor.

The candidate will investigate methods for the development of a training simulator for future operators of zero-power experiments using a physics based modelling and simulation approach as well as a man-machine interface based on virtual engineering methods. 

Please apply by completing the online postgraduate research application form here: How to apply for a PhD – University of Liverpool 

Please ensure you include the project title and reference number PPPR068 when applying.