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PhD Project - Prediction of residual stresses in Zr welded components

Details

PhD

4 year fully funded studentship

Start Date

1st October 2026

University

University of Bristol

Status

Position Filled

Sponsor

Rolls Royce Plc

Supervisor

Prof C E Truman 

For informal enquiries, please contact:

c.e.truman@bristol.ac.uk 

Apply Now

Applications are being accepted for September/October 2026

Please quote reference number P023 if you are interested in this project when applying.

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Description

This fully funded four-year PhD studentship is offered with the University of Bristol under the supervision of Professor Chris Truman, sponsored by Rolls Royce Plc.

PhD Opportunity: Predictive Modelling of Residual Stress in Nuclear Welded Components
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to develop and validate an advanced process modelling framework for predicting the evolution of residual stresses in Zircaloy-4 welds. The project will focus on welds produced using Electron Beam (EB) and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding techniques, alongside the influence of post-weld heat treatment under varying cooling rates.
Residual stress assumptions in current engineering practice often introduce unnecessary conservatism into structural integrity assessments. This project aims to transform that approach by delivering a robust, physics-based predictive methodology. The successful candidate will generate new insights into “start-of-life” material properties and explore how these can be optimised through advanced manufacturing and heat treatment strategies.
The developed model will directly inform high-consequence manufacturing decisions within the nuclear industry, offering clear pathways to improved performance, safety, and cost efficiency. As such, the research is expected to deliver tangible industrial and commercial impact.
The project will investigate and implement advanced material constitutive modelling approaches, including:
  • Cyclic hardening behaviour (isotropic, kinematic, and combined models)
  • Solid-state phase transformations and transformation-induced plasticity
  • Creep deformation and stress relaxation using appropriate constitutive equations
A comprehensive experimental programme will underpin the modelling work. This is expected to include:
  • Low-Cycle Fatigue (LCF) testing
  • Tensile testing
  • Creep testing
These tests will be conducted on both parent material and weld-deposited material to ensure accurate model calibration.
Validation of the modelling framework will be carried out at multiple scales, including small-scale specimens and full plate welds (both autogenous and filler-added). Advanced residual stress measurement techniques will be employed, such as:
  • Neutron diffraction
  • Electronic Speckle Pattern interferometry (ESP)
  • Incremental Deep Hole Drilling (iDHD)
  • Contour method
This PhD will contribute to the development of a fully integrated thermal–metallurgical–mechanical predictive capability for welding and heat treatment processes. There is also strong scope to explore the relationship between residual stress and long-term material property evolution.
Candidates will gain experience with industry-relevant simulation tools, with preferred software including Abaqus and SYSWELD, supporting future industrial application and impact.
This is an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of nuclear materials engineering with the University of Bristol’s experts, combining advanced modelling, experimental validation, and real-world industrial relevance.

Students will receive an enhanced, tax free, stipend of £26,000 per annum  

This position is due to start in October 2026. This project may include a placement tbc.

 

Eligibility 

A first-class or 2:1 honours degree in a relevant STEM subject (e.g. Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Mathematics) is preferred. Equivalent industrial experience will also be considered during the eligibility assessment.  

PANDA is committed to widening access; we welcome applications from mid-career switchers and those returning from career breaks. This PhD position is suitable for part time study. 

Students are required to achieve MoD Enhanced BPSS status, as a condition of ongoing enrolment and funding for this project.  

Due to conditions of funding, applicants must have Home Fees status and be eligible to work in the UK nuclear industry upon graduation. 

 

About PANDA 

This studentship is part of the PANDA (Programme for Accelerating Nuclear Development and Applications) Nuclear Doctoral Focal Award. PANDA is a consortium of researchers led by Bangor University and delivered with the universities of Birmingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Derby and Manchester, Imperial College London alongside UK National Nuclear Laboratory. PANDA will train up to 100 doctoral researchers to help meet the UK’s future nuclear, clean energy and defence needs. It is funded by UKRI, the Ministry of Defence and the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero. 

Alongside your research activities you will undertake a rich programme of events including a training programme that includes Nuclear Science and Engineering; Methods for Innovation and the PANDA Professionalism Programme. Due to our close links with industry, there will be opportunities for extended placements with industrial partners, allowing a deeper understanding of what it is like to be a nuclear professional during your studies. 

This studentship covers full tuition fees at the home student rate and an enhanced tax-free stipend of £26,000. The studentship also comes with access to additional funding in the form of a research training support grant which is available to fund research activities including training events, conference attendance, and placements. Students are also supported by the UKRI family leave and pastoral provisions that apply to UKRI-funded studentships, including maternity, paternity, adoption and neonatal care leave. A PANDA hardship fund is also available.

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panda@bangor.ac.uk