This position is in the Safety Systems Research Centre in the Faculty of Engineering, part of the Bristol-Oxford Nuclear Research Centre and the new nuclear research and teaching Hub on the University of Bristol’s campus. It is an opportunity to work on a problem of major importance in the design of some of the world’s most critical systems, in collaboration with a major industry stakeholder. The research aims to develop solutions to common cause failures caused by the increasing use of software in redundant system architectures. It is of direct relevance to EDF Group’s activities across the globe, and the project will be part of EDF’s activities in international initiatives to address this problem. A strong background in probability, computer science and electronic system designs is required.

EPSRC Industrial CASE studentships provide outstanding students access to training, facilities and expertise not available in an academic setting alone. Students benefit from a diversity of experimental approaches with an applied / translational dimension. This studentship is offered in partnership with EDF, a leading operator of nuclear power stations in France, the UK and around the world. The work will involve working with industry experts including visits to EDF in Barnwood and Paris.

Candidate requirements: 1st class honours degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or similar numerical discipline

Scholarship covers full UK/EU (EU applicants who have been resident in the UK for 3 years prior to application) PhD tuition fees and a tax-free stipend (the RCUK rate is £13,863 for 2014/15). This is supplemented by a contribution from industry towards the stipend and/or further means to enhance the learning experience, such to support travel and conferences. EU nationals resident in the EU may also apply and will qualify only for PhD tuition fees.

EDF provides additional top up to the project of a minimum of a third of the EPSRC funding (£22,883 over the course of the project). This will be used to supplement the stipend and/or enhance the learning experience as agreed between the University and its industrial partner

How to apply: To apply for this studentship submit a PhD application using our online application system. Please ensure that you select ‘Engineering PhD’ and in the Funding section tick “I would like to be considered for a funding award from the Department” and specify the title of the scholarship in the “other” box below.

Contacts:  Please contact Dr John May j.may<στο>bristol.ac.uk