Advancing nuclear technology, safety, decommissioning and computational engineering through research, education and industrial collaboration at the University of Lancashire.
The University of Lancashire has established a strong reputation in nuclear science, engineering and technology through its specialist research, industrial partnerships and postgraduate education activities. Nuclear research forms part of the University's wider engineering and technology portfolio and addresses challenges associated with energy generation, decommissioning, safety, waste management and advanced computational modelling.
The University's activities are closely connected to the needs of the UK's civil nuclear sector, particularly in North West England, one of Europe's most significant concentrations of nuclear expertise and infrastructure.
The John Tyndall Institute is the University's principal centre for nuclear engineering and computational mechanics research. Established in 2007, the Institute undertakes research, professional education and industrial engagement in nuclear technologies, computational modelling and engineering systems.
The Institute combines expertise in nuclear engineering, numerical methods, simulation, safety, decommissioning and environmental management, supporting both research and continuing professional development for the nuclear industry.
Research into uranium processing, enrichment, fuel fabrication, fuel management and emerging reactor fuel technologies.
Supporting safe operation, regulation and risk management across the nuclear sector.
Developing solutions for the safe retrieval, treatment and disposal of legacy nuclear materials.
Addressing technical, environmental and societal challenges associated with radioactive waste.
Numerical modelling, simulation and digital engineering methods applied to nuclear systems.
Exploring the integration of nuclear energy with smart grids and low-carbon energy networks.
A distinctive strength of the University is the application of advanced computational mechanics to nuclear engineering challenges. Researchers utilise finite element methods (FEM), boundary element methods (BEM), finite difference methods (FDM) and scientific computing techniques to analyse engineering systems and optimise operational performance.
These methods support the design, assessment and safety evaluation of complex engineering structures and processes within the nuclear sector.
The University works closely with organisations across the UK's nuclear sector. Located within reach of major nuclear facilities including Sellafield, Springfields Fuels and the wider North West nuclear cluster, the University supports skills development, innovation and knowledge exchange.
The University has developed a portfolio of nuclear-related education and continuing professional development (CPD) programmes. These courses support professionals working in nuclear operations, regulation, decommissioning, environmental management, programme controls and leadership.
Training is delivered in collaboration with industrial partners and is designed to address the evolving needs of the UK's nuclear workforce.
Nuclear Science and Technology
Nuclear Engineering Research
Industry-focused nuclear education
Collaborative research projects
Research students can investigate topics including nuclear safety, reactor technologies, waste management, fuel cycle technologies, computational modelling and advanced engineering systems.
Nuclear energy remains a vital component of the UK's energy, environmental and industrial strategy. Through research, education and industrial collaboration, the University of Lancashire contributes to the development of safe, efficient and sustainable nuclear technologies while helping to build the highly skilled workforce required by the sector.