Overview
This project is funded by the Nuclear Doctoral Focal Award in Radiation Protection, Nuclear Safety and Environmental Sustainability (RAPTOR) which offers students a coordinated, industry-engaged route to develop cutting edge expertise. The goal is to train 60 PhD students to deliver practical solutions across the civil and defence nuclear sectors with work shaped by national priorities, scientific curiosity and real world needs from industry.
About this opportunity
This PhD will critically evaluate the scientific basis, embedded conservatisms, and regulatory application of key radiological protection criteria used in the UK and internationally. The research will focus on how numerical criteria – originally developed as precautionary screening or optimisation tools – are operationalised in regulatory decision-making and how cumulative conservatisms influence policy outcomes, licensing conditions, transport constraints, and industrial cost structures.
The project will deliver an evidence-based framework for recalibrating selected radiological protection criteria to ensure they remain proportionate, risk-informed, and aligned with contemporary scientific understanding while preserving high standards of protection.
The student recruited to this project will be part of RAPTOR a new EPSRC doctoral training programme focused on radiation protection, environmental sustainability and nuclear safety. You will be based at the University of Liverpool and will undertake an intensive training programme in year 1 which leads to a PgCert, co-designed and co-delivered by partner institutions and Industry. This PhD programme offers a unique opportunity to join a vibrant, inclusive cohort focused on addressing major interdisciplinary challenges in nuclear science and engineering. It unites leading academic expertise with strong partnerships across the nuclear industry and will train students in nationally critical skills in cutting edge nuclear technologies.