Postdoctoral Researcher in High temperature cyclic mechanical properties of nuclear graphite

This postdoctoral position is part of the project eMEANSS (Enhanced
Methodologies for Advanced Nuclear System Safety)
(https://gow.epsrc.ukri.org/NGBOViewGrant.aspx?GrantRef=EP/T016329/1), which
aims to develop a multi-disciplinary framework for uncertainty quantification
in key areas of nuclear engineering, including structural integrity. You will
undertake research on in situ studies of the interactions between cyclic load
and temperature (up to 1000°C) in nuclear graphite, which will support non-
linear finite element modelling of the performance of reactor core components
in high temperature reactors.





With a background in high temperature testing of materials, you will be self-
motivated, able to plan and deliver a research project. You will have a PhD
(or be near completion) in related topics and experience in synchrotron X-ray
diffraction and digital image correlation.





This position is available immediately and is fixed-term until 13 January
2025.





The eMEANSS project aims to develop a multi-disciplinary framework for
uncertainty quantification that enables its identification and impact in three
key areas of nuclear engineering: reactor physics, structural integrity and
fuel performance. Working in collaboration with our partners, we are focussed
on fatigue failure of graphite components, especially at high service
temperatures, which is of concern for next generation reactors. A design tool
is needed that can efficiently incorporate variances in the mechanical and
thermal loading history, and material properties to quantify a probable
component life. These interact in graphite as mechanical damage introduces
micro-cracking that impacts elastic properties and the subsequent development
of damage from applied strains. In addition to the simple uncertainties in
boundary conditions, i.e. external load, internal stress and thermal
conditions, complications arise from both the load sequence and the
temperatures at which loading occurs, coupled with the impacts arising from
neutron irradiation, temperature and coolant interactions on the relationship
between deformation and graphite properties. We aim to generate new knowledge
on the high temperature cyclic response of advanced nuclear graphite and will
utilise it in the development of a new probabilistic modelling framework. In
particular, the sensitivity of lifetime predictions to input data will be
quantified, and practical guidelines will be proposed for inspection
strategies that may be adopted in future high temperature reactors.





All applications must be made online using the Oxford University E-Recruitment
system, no later than 12 noon on 6 August 2024. You will be required to upload
a CV and a Supporting Statement as part of your application. **Please do not
attach any manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets or certificates as
these will not be considered as part of your application.**





Interviews are scheduled to take place at the Department of Materials on 23
August 2024 and you must be available on this date, either by Teams, Zoom or
in person. Please note in normal circumstances only interview travel expenses
within the UK will be reimbursed.