Research Associate Computational Modelling of Boiling Heat Transfer in Nuclear Reactors

Contract type: Fixed term to start as soon as possible until 31^st August 2026

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join the Department of Mechanical Engineering and lead the development of accurate and reliable computational models for the prediction of boiling heat transfer and the critical heat flux (CHF) in water-cooled nuclear reactors. The 30-month post is funded by an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) award, and it is supported by Rolls-Royce, Westinghouse and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA). In the Department of Mechanical Engineering, you will join the Thermofluids Group and interact with an exceptional team of researchers with a long track record of development of innovative computational methods for fluid dynamics, multiphase flows and nuclear thermal hydraulics.

You will bring expertise in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and/or multiphase modelling development, with a proven background in open-source CFD (e.g., OpenFOAM) and programming, and a keen interest or previous experience in modelling nuclear thermal hydraulics. You will have excellent independence, problem-solving skills, and teamwork and communication skills.

In this role, you will lead the development of higher-fidelity boiling computational fluid dynamic (CFD) models that are both physically based and ready to leverage the latest advances in machine-learning for more efficient and faster predictions. You will focus in particular on predicting regions of high vapour generation that can lead to the CHF at pressurized water reactor high pressure (~ 16 MPa) operating conditions and during external passive cooling of the nuclear reactor vessel, a key strategy to mitigate the progression of rare but dangerous reactor accidents.

You will have the unique opportunity to make a significant impact and steer the future research of the group in the area. You will meet regularly with industrial collaborators at Rolls-Royce, Westinghouse and UKAEA, present your work in international conferences, attend training courses as appropriate and interact with the multiple collaborators of the research group from the academic sector.

We’re one of the best not-for-profit organisations to work for in the UK. The University’s Total Reward Package includes a competitive salary, a generous Pension Scheme and annual leave entitlement, as well as access to a range of learning and development courses to support your personal and professional development.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

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