Plutonium Ceramics Hub
Join the Pu Ceramics Hub and support the critical UK mission of safe and secure disposition of plutonium-bearing materials through global-leading PhD research.
Available PhD projectsDeveloping the next generation of experts in plutonium materials science
The Plutonium Ceramics Academic Hub at the Universities of Manchester and Sheffield (PUMaS) is building the UK's future capability in nuclear materials science. Backed by £5 million in funding from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), the Hub will support around 20 fully funded PhD students in an intensive four-year training and research programme.
By joining the Hub, you'll contribute to nationally significant work and become a technical specialist in the safe immobilisation of plutonium, one of the most pressing challenges in UK nuclear decommissioning.
A nationally critical challenge. A unique opportunity
The safe, long-term management of separated plutonium is one of the most complex technical challenges in the UK’s nuclear decommissioning mission. Disposing of this material requires it to be transformed into stable ceramic forms suitable for deep geological disposal, a process that demands advanced materials science and engineering solutions.
The Pu Ceramics Hub is at the heart of this effort, developing the science, technology and skilled researchers needed to support the UK’s strategy for safe and secure plutonium disposition. You can be part of this transformation.
We are thrilled to be leading the £5M NDA Plutonium Academic Ceramics Hub at The University of Manchester in collaboration with the University of Sheffield. Our combined expertise and state-of-the-art facilities uniquely position us to successfully deliver the Hub and develop future subject matter experts in the field. This initiative will enable us to continue supporting the safe management of the UKs plutonium inventory, addressing a critical challenge in the NDAs mission.
Dr Rob Harrison / Hub Director, The University of Manchester
What you’ll gain
Global-leading training, cutting-edge research, real-world impact.
We don’t just support PhDs, we develop future leaders in nuclear materials science.
- A fully funded 4-year PhD with tax-free stipend and ‘Home’ tuition fees scholarship
- Bespoke training and cohort development programme, tailored to nuclear materials science and plutonium disposition
- Close industry collaboration, with a dedicated industrial supervisor for each project
- Access to leading research facilities across Manchester and Sheffield
- Real impact: contribute directly to the NDA’s mission to manage the UK’s nuclear legacy, safely and securely.
PhD applications open for September 2025 entry
This is your opportunity to join a nationally significant initiative. As a researcher in the Hub, you’ll gain specialist training, hands-on industry experience, and help solve one of the UK’s most urgent nuclear challenges.
How to apply
- Explore our fully funded PhD projects from the list below and email the Hub for further information.
- Choose a project aligned with your interests and career goals
- Follow our application guide to submit your application.
Explore current fully funded PhD projects
Each PhD project is co-designed with industry partners, supervised by leading academics, and aligned with the UK’s national strategy for safe plutonium disposition.
Get in touch
If you have a question or are interested in finding out more about our hub, get in touch.
Partners
