Research Associate in Solvent Extraction for Isotopic Enrichment

at  The University of Manchester

BACKGROUND

With the nuclear industry experiencing a resurgence, The University of Manchester is committed to providing groundbreaking research to aid the advancing nuclear sector. We have the essential ingredients to make a full and lasting contribution: exceptional people and world-class facilities. The University of Manchester has the all-round capability to further research across the entire nuclear fuel cycles of both fusion and fission, from fuel manufacturing to power generation, treatment of used fuel and decommissioning. Our infrastructure and facilities are second to none in the UK. The Dalton Nuclear Institute (DNI) at the University of Manchester has established the most advanced academic nuclear research capability in the UK and is a leading centre for higher learning in nuclear science and engineering. Facilities to support these activities at the University of Manchester include the Nuclear Engineering, Science and Technology (NEST) facility and the Photon Science Institute (PSI). Along with the University of Manchester’s prolonged contribution to the nuclear sector, it has many links with industry, both in the UK and overseas, notably those with the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL). Members of the DNI have successfully collaborated with both academic and industrial partners in the UK and worldwide through various links, networks, and consortia to provide fundamental research for advanced and developing nuclear technologies.
The University of Manchester has a partnership with the UKAEA to help accelerate the country’s progress toward Net Zero Carbon targets through the development of fusion energy. The University of Manchester is therefore making significant investments to support the research and development of sustainable energy produced by fusion.

The role aims to understand the impact of impurities on the distribution behaviour of lithium in the isotopic enrichment of lithium-6 by solvent extraction for fusion breeder blanket fabrication. The experimental work will also focus on waste minimisation by establishing a sustainable method for stripping the extractant phase and recycling the extractant.
The postdoctoral research associate, in conjunction with the academic team, will be responsible for experimental research undertaking measurements for the determination of solvent extraction distribution ratios, isotopic enrichment levels, and impurity levels. Experiments will be conducted at bench-scale and analysed using a range of solution techniques, including XRF spectroscopy, Karl Fischer titration, and potentiometric titration.
The post will be based in the Department of Chemical Engineering but may also involve working with other supporting facilities across the Faculty of Science and Engineering, and the University of Leeds as a consortium partner.
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
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Blended working arrangements may be considered
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