Exploring applied smouldering as a new energy-efficient and circular approach for managing the UK’s nuclear graphite waste
An exciting opportunity is available for a motivated and talented PhD candidate to develop a transformative technology for managing the UK’s nuclear graphite waste.
Funded by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority we endeavour to make technological advances with real national impact.
The UK holds significant volumes of nuclear graphite waste with disposal options currently limited pending the Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) opening after 2050. New technologies are needed to manage graphite – a key enabler for the dismantling of the first and second generation of UK Nuclear Reactors. Applied smouldering offers a promising solution to reduce the amount of material destined for the GDF. It is energy efficient, cost effective, and well suited to low volatility carbon based materials.
Project description
You will design and conduct laboratory experiments to assess graphite smoulderability, develop physics-based models to predict scalability, and perform techno economic analyses and life cycle assessments using machine-learning tools. This project will prepare you for starting a career in nuclear decommissioning or applying emerging technological and modelling approaches to facilitate circular economy innovation in the energy transition.
You will work closely with Tarek Rashwan, Oliver Fisher and Rachel L Gomes based in the Food Water Waste research group in the Faculty of Engineering, which leads research in circular economy innovations. You will also liaise extensively with Nuclear Restoration Services including a multi-month internship, and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority alongside a broader team of UK academics and industry partners from Canada addressing challenges with nuclear graphite.
PhD start date: October 2026
Candidate requirements
Essentials
- 1st or 2:1 in engineering or a science-related discipline
- Strong analytical and problem solving skills
- Enthusiastic, self-motivated, resourceful, and strong willingness to learn
Desirables
Previous experimental and/or modelling experience with thermal treatment or combustion/smouldering is an advantage. Full research training will be provided.
Funding and eligibility
This studentship is open to UK/home and international candidates. For funding reasons we are particularly looking for UK applicants.
How to apply
Application deadline: 1 June 2026.
To apply please email your CV and supporting statement explaining your suitability for this PhD position and why you are interested to Dr Tarek Rashwan at tarek.rashwan@nottingham.ac.uk
The 海角黑料 actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We - the Faculty of Engineering - provide a thriving working environment for all our postgraduate researchers (PGRs) creating a strong sense of community across research disciplines. We understand that research culture is important to our PGRs so we work closely with our and PGR research group representatives to support and enhance the postgraduate research environment.
As a PGR at the 海角黑料 you will benefit from training through our Researcher Academy’s training programme. Based within the Faculty of Engineering you will have additional access to courses developed specifically for our engineering and architecture PGRs including sessions on how to write a paper, communicating your research, and research integrity.
We offer dedicated postgraduate study spaces, have outstanding research facilities and work in partnership with leading industrial partners.