Nuclear energy is a flexible and versatile low-carbon energy source, poised to make a significant contribution to the transition toward a decarbonized economy. A key element in ensuring the sustainable use of nuclear power is closing the nuclear fuel cycle through the recycling and refabrication of nuclear fuel.
Project overview
This Ph D position is part of the MÅSTE project, funded by the Swedish Energy Authority. The project is a collaboration between several prestigious institutions, including Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg University, Lund University, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and Uppsala University, with industrial relevance guided by Karnfull Next AB.
The main goal of the project is to identify the necessary requirements for applying to build a Gen IV pilot plant in Sweden. This ambitious work spans multiple disciplines, including nuclear chemistry, reactor physics, materials science, safeguards, and radiation protection. As a Ph D student, you will gain a comprehensive, interdisciplinary understanding of these crucial areas, providing you with a unique, holistic view of the nuclear fuel cycle.
This project offers significant development opportunities for young researchers, preparing them for roles in Technical Support Organizations (TSO), which are critical to the transition from the current nuclear power fleet to one that includes Gen IV technologies. Alternatively, you could pursue a career as an expert within the Swedish nuclear industry. Furthermore, the project aims to provide other research initiatives with key design features and plant data to advance studies on next-generation nuclear power systems.
Main responsibilities
As a Ph D student, you will be responsible for addressing key research questions related to your project. Specifically, you will:

• Investigate the separation system, focusing on essential process parameters such as hydrodynamics and separation equipment.
• Design the separation process with careful consideration of safety aspects, including criticality issues, in collaboration with experts in radiation protection and safeguard research.
• Conduct hands-on laboratory work involving radioactive nuclides, carried out in dedicated labs with specialized safety requirements.
• Contribute to the teaching of BSc and MSc students, and engage in departmental responsibilities as part of your role.

Qualifications
To qualify for this position, you should have:

• A Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, ideally with a focus on Nuclear Chemistry, Nuclear Physics, or Reactor Physics.
• Experience in solvent extraction or sol-gel processing is considered a strong asset.
• Documented experience in practical chemical laboratory work, which is mandatory for this position. Applications without this will not be considered.
• The ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
• Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of a Nordic language is highly desirable but not mandatory.

Please observe: Since the department is also a nuclear facility, only citizens of the countries who are signatory of Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons can apply and be considered for the position. Please check the status of your country before applying.
Contract terms
This is a full-time, temporary position, with a maximum duration of five years.
About the division and research group
The position is based within the Division of Energy and Materials, specifically the Nuclear Chemistry and Industrial Materials Recycling group at the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. Our team boasts over 50 years of experience and operates with a spirit of curiosity and boldness. Our research spans a wide range of topics, from hydrometallurgy in non-nuclear applications to developing a closed nuclear fuel cycle. This includes work on fuel research, waste management through the recycling of spent nuclear fuel for transmutation, novel fuel developments, and final repository research. We are also focused on reactor safety (for both current and Gen IV systems) and research on severe nuclear accidents.
We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.

Application deadline: 30 November, 2024

For questions, please contact:
Christian Ekberg, Nuclear Chemistry and Industrial Materials Recycling
che@chalmers.se
+46317722801

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***


Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.