PhD Positions in Nuclear Engineering Group, Chalmer University of Technology

Sweden.

The PhD positions are offered at the Department of Applied Physics, in the group of Nuclear Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology. In here, research is performed in several fields of nuclear energy, such as reactor physics and dynamics, reactor diagnostics, thermal-hydraulics, neutron/radiation physics, nuclear chemistry and materials.

The group has an internationally leading position is reactor diagnostics with noise analysis. Noise diagnostics concerns the study of fluctuating quantities in the core, primarily that of the neutron flux, which is induced by various technological processes being also random in character (flow induced vibrations, turbulent one- and two-phase flow etc.). The goal is that, from the measured neutron noise, to “unfold” the processes which induced the neutron noise.

This requires knowledge of space-dependent reactor dynamics (how the effect of a perturbation propagates in the core), the theory of random processes (in order to model the properties of the perturbations) and finally solution methods of inverse problems (to identify the reason from the cause). Diagnostics is used for an early detection and identification of changes/anomalies in the core, as well as for monitoring important safety parameters and even for optimizing the reactor operation.

Research in this field has long been pursued at the Department with support from, and in collaboration with, the industry. However, the present position is part of a new large investment from the industry in frame of a six years contract with Chalmers. Our foremost co-operating partner in diagnostics is the Ringhals power plant, and all methods that we elaborate can be tested on real measurement data taken during operation, and several of the methods found a routine application at the power plant.

The character of the PhD project is primarily theoretical/calculational, and includes even signal processing and analysis from measurements. The theoretical part consists of stochastic modelling of noise sources, calculation of the dynamic transfer function of the core (with diffusion or transport theory) and of the elaboration of robust unfolding methods (neural networks, fuzzy logics etc). Despite of the theoretical character, the work has close connections to applications.

The applicant for this PhD position should have a MSc in Engineering Physics, or Chemical Engineering with Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent diploma. Candidates to the position should already have a solid knowledge in reactor physics/technology in form of undergraduate courses. The applicant should have a good command of mathematical physics, such as solution of partial differential equations, probability theory/stochastic processes, and complex transform methods. Experience with signal processing and MATLAB and Mathematica is an advantage. The PhD student is also expected to participate in lecturing in graduate courses, and to lead calculational and laboratory exercises. The time period for the position is limited to five years.

For foreign students who do not have English or a Scandinavian language as mother tongue, a high level of spoken English is required. Chalmers accepts only these language tests and minimum scores: Cambridge CPE or CAE: pass; IELTS (academic): 6, TOEFL: 550; TOEFL (computer-based): 213; TOEIC: 750.

In order to improve the gender balance at the Department, we welcome in particular applications from female candidates.

Applications marked with reference number 2008/10 should be sent electronically to registrator@adm.chalmers.se and should include:

• A complete CV with contact information.
• Copies of exams, degrees and grades.
• A statement of research interest (one page only) or a letter of motivation.
• At least one letter of recommendation (with full contact details of the reference persons).
• A copy of one of the English tests mentioned above (for foreign students who do not have English or a Scandinavian language as mother tongue).

Applications not containing these items will be disregarded.

Deadline for application: 26 February 2008

Further inquiries about this PhD project can be addressed to Prof. Imre Pázsit phone: +4631-772 3081, e-mail: imre@nephy.chalmers.se or Assoc. Prof. Christophe Demazière phone: +4631-772 3082, e-mail: demaz@nephy.chalmers.se.

Union representatives:
SACO: Jan Lindér
ST-ATF: Marie Wenander
SEKO: Ralf Berndtsson
All reachable via Chalmers exchange: +46 31 772 10 00