Funding success for training and research in applied nuclear physics

Programme will help support the UK’s nuclear energy and defence requirements.

Funding has been secured to train the UK’s next generation of researchers and innovators in cutting-edge nuclear skills.

The University of Edinburgh will be working in partnership with the University of Cambridge, Lancaster University and the University of Surrey and project lead, the University of York. The Doctoral Focal Award, formerly known as a Centre for Doctoral Training, will train researchers in nuclear science, neutron and radiation transport, simulation and instrumentation development.

The Physics-Led Applications for Nuclear Engineering & Technology (PLANET) award will offer PhD projects that are co-created with industry, professional skills training, and an industrial placement. 

Both UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and industry partners contribute 40% of the funding each, with the remaining 20% coming from home institutions. Across the consortium, a total of 80 PhD students will be trained, with 20 starting each year. The first intake of PhD students is scheduled for September 2026, with four of these based at the University of Edinburgh.