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Tomas Martin

Top university

11 months ago

Structural Material Behaviour in High Temperature Helium Environments for Advanced Gas-Cooled Nuclear Reactors University of Bristol in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Materials Science

Funding

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

Deadline

Expired

Country flag

Country

United Kingdom

University

University of Bristol

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Keywords

Materials Science
Nuclear Engineering
Microscopy
Building Science
Atom Probe Tomography
Interface Science
Cavitation
Oxidation
High-temperature Alloys
Stainless Steel
Degradation Modeling
Physics

About this position

This PhD project at the University of Bristol's School of Physics focuses on the behaviour of structural materials in high temperature helium environments, specifically for advanced gas-cooled nuclear reactors (HTGRs). HTGRs are a promising technology for safe, efficient energy production and industrial decarbonisation, but present significant materials challenges due to the effects of high temperature helium and gas impurities on reactor components. The research will use a custom high temperature rig and advanced microscopy techniques—including focused ion beam, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, and atom probe tomography—to study the evolution and degradation of structural materials such as nickel-based alloys and steels.

The project aims to understand complex degradation processes like carburisation, decarburisation, oxidation, and creep cavitation, and to identify optimal materials and conditions for future HTGRs. The student will be based in the Interface Analysis Centre, gaining access to state-of-the-art analytical facilities and training in microscopy, image processing, and computational modelling. The research group is large and supportive, offering opportunities for collaboration within Bristol and the wider nuclear materials community.

The University of Bristol is highly ranked globally and provides a vibrant graduate research community, comprehensive induction, skills training, and career support. Scholarships for home students cover living expenses, tuition, and training; a small number of fully-funded places are available for outstanding international candidates, with external funding also accepted. Applicants need a strong background in physics or a related field, and must meet English language requirements. The application deadline is 19 January 2026.

For more information, contact Dr Tomas Martin or the Bristol Physics Graduate School.

Funding details

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

What's required

Applicants must have a first degree in physics or a related subject, normally at a level equivalent to at least UK upper second-class honours, or a relevant postgraduate master's qualification. International applicants should consult the University of Bristol's guidance for country-specific requirements. If English is not your first language, you must meet English Language Profile F as specified by the University of Bristol. No research proposal is required, but you must specify a research theme or academic supervisor. Applications are assessed on merit and shortlisted candidates will be interviewed.

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Professors

Dr at School of Physics

University Name
Country flag

United Kingdom

Research Interests

Materials Chemistry

Condensed Matter Physics

Alloy Chemistry

Corrosion Engineering

High-temperature Materials