PhD Student Position in Nuclear Engineering at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden This doctoral project focuses on corrosion protection in lead-cooled fast reactors (LFR), a promising technology for next-generation nuclear power (Gen IV). Corrosion in liquid lead is a significant challenge for LFRs and must be mitigated using advanced protection methods such as laser cladding, MIG welding, hot isostatic pressing (HIP), and additive manufacturing. The project will experimentally test these methods for both corrosion resistance and mechanical performance. The research will be conducted in close collaboration with industrial partners, other academic institutions, and research institutes, providing a dynamic and international research environment. The successful candidate will be supervised by Professor Pavel Kudinov and Peter Szakálos, with the final decision on supervision made upon admission. Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must have a second-cycle (advanced level) degree or have completed at least 240 ECTS credits (with at least 60 ECTS at the advanced level), or possess equivalent knowledge. English proficiency equivalent to English B/6 is mandatory. Selection will consider the ability to work independently, collaborate, maintain a professional approach, and analyze complex issues. Practical experience with corrosion testing and slow strain rate testing (SSRT) in heavy liquid metals is highly valued. Personal qualities are also important. Funding and Employment: The position is a full-time, fixed-term employment for up to four years, with a monthly salary according to KTH's agreement for doctoral students. Employment includes benefits and is subject to KTH's doctoral salary agreement. The position is based in Stockholm, Sweden. Application Process: Applications must be submitted via the KTH recruitment system. Required documents include a CV, cover letter (max 2 pages), degree certificates, transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and representative publications or technical reports. Translations to English or Swedish are required if documents are not in these languages. The application deadline is 2025-11-15 (midnight CET). About KTH: KTH Royal Institute of Technology is a leading international technical university, actively contributing to the transition to a sustainable society through education, research, and innovation. The university offers a creative and dynamic workplace with excellent working conditions and benefits, emphasizing equality, diversity, and equal opportunities. For further information, contact Professor Pavel Kudinov ([email protected]) or Peter Szakálos ([email protected]). Apply here

This doctoral position at KTH Royal Institute of Technology focuses on corrosion protection in lead fast reactors (LFR), a key technology for next-generation nuclear power (Gen IV). The project addresses the significant challenge of corrosion in liquid lead environments, which is critical for the safe and efficient operation of LFRs. The research will investigate and test various protective methods, including laser welding coatings, MIG weld overlay, hot isostatic pressing (HIP), and additive manufacturing, evaluating both their corrosion resistance and mechanical performance. The PhD project is highly collaborative, involving industrial partners, other academic institutions, and research institutes, providing a dynamic and international research environment. Supervision will be provided by Professor Pavel Kudinov and Dr Peter Szakalos, both experienced in nuclear engineering and materials science. The position offers a monthly salary according to KTH's doctoral student salary agreement, with full-time employment for up to four years. Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent, demonstrate English proficiency (English B/6), and ideally have practical experience in corrosion testing and slow strain rate testing (SSRT) in heavy liquid metals. Selection will emphasize personal skills such as independence, collaboration, professionalism, and analytical ability. The application process requires submission of a CV, application letter, certified diplomas and grades, proof of language proficiency, and representative publications. KTH provides a creative and supportive environment, with opportunities for professional growth, international collaboration, and attractive employee benefits. The position is based in Stockholm, Sweden, and applications must be submitted via KTH's recruitment system by November 15, 2025.

This doctoral position at KTH Royal Institute of Technology offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the advancement of severe accident management strategies in Nordic boiling water reactor (BWR) plants. The project focuses on understanding and mitigating the risks associated with corium melt release from the reactor vessel, particularly the fragmentation of melt in deep water pools and the formation of coolable corium debris beds. A key concern is the potential for energetic interactions between hot corium and water coolant, which could compromise containment integrity. The research aims to develop innovative methods for addressing the most influential sources of uncertainty in severe accident progression, utilizing the ROAAM+ framework for comprehensive risk assessment. As a doctoral student, you will be part of international collaborative projects and work under the supervision of Professor Pavel Kudinov, with additional contact from Professor Pär Olsson. The position is based in Stockholm, Sweden, at KTH, a leading technical university renowned for its commitment to sustainability, equality, and innovation. The research environment is dynamic and creative, offering excellent working conditions and a range of employee benefits. Eligibility requirements include a completed second cycle degree (such as a master's) or at least 240 higher education credits, with a minimum of 60 credits at the second-cycle level, or equivalent qualifications. Proficiency in English (equivalent to English B/6) is mandatory. The selection process emphasizes personal qualities such as goal orientation, perseverance, independence, collaboration skills, and the ability to analyze complex issues. Candidates should have knowledge in nuclear power, fluid dynamics, thermohydraulics, severe accident phenomena, and numerical simulations. Security clearance may be required for certain roles. The position offers full-time employment for up to four years, with a monthly salary according to KTH’s doctoral student salary agreement. Doctoral students may also engage in training and administrative tasks up to 20% of their role. The application process requires submission through KTH's recruitment system, including a CV, application letter, certified copies of diplomas and grades, proof of language proficiency, and representative publications or technical reports. The deadline for applications is January 9, 2026. Join KTH and contribute to shaping the future of nuclear safety and risk management in a supportive and forward-thinking academic environment.