A world-class environment for your research degree
The School of Physics is offering a portfolio of PhD Scholarships across all its world-class research groups. These prestigious Scholarships represent a great opportunity to start your Postgraduate Research Career working with world-class academics in a supportive training and development environment. Physics at Bristol was ranked 5th for Research in the 2022 Research Excellence Framework (REF) results, and the University of Bristol is truly world-leading: 55th in the QS World University Ranking (2024) and 81st in the Times Higher Ranking (2024).
What does a Scholarship cover?
For home students, the scholarships will cover living expenses (UKRI rate), University tuition fees (see PhD Physics | Study at Bristol | University of Bristol), and training and support expenses. We also welcome applications from outstanding international candidates: we are able to offer a very small number of fully-funded places, but also accept students who can provide full or partial funding from other sources. If you need an offer letter to apply for a competitive scholarship, please get in contact with us well before any deadlines.
Research Project
Small modular reactors (SMRs) are a new class of pressurised water nuclear reactors under development in the UK and other countries. Their smaller modular design aims to save construction time and costs compared to conventional reactors. As development of SMRs accelerates, it is important to understand how the materials in the reactor will change during operation. Understanding corrosion processes within the high pressure, high temperature water coolant loop during operation, shutdown and maintenance will be a key aspect of reactor lifetime.
This project will investigate the effect of the water chemistry regime anticipated for SMRs on reactor components such as the steam generators. Subtle changes in water chemistry can have large effects on the surfaces of metal components. The project will use the autoclave facilities at the University of Bristol to expose reactor materials to SMR-specific water conditions, and characterise the material changes using the advanced microscopy facilities within the Interface Analysis Centre research facility. Using a combination of experiment and modelling, the project will develop better understanding of how water chemistry affects the reactor components, how corrosion product moves around the circuit, and identify steps to optimise coolant circuit performance.
For more information please contact tomas.martin@bristol.ac.uk
The student will be based within the Interface Analysis Centre (IAC) in the School of Physics at the University of Bristol. The student will access the hot water testing and materials characterisation within the IAC facility, and will be supported by Dr Tomas Martin and Dr Mariia Zimina, as well as the broader team of staff scientists and technical staff within the IAC. The student will be joining a vibrant collaborative group of materials research students and staff, and will benefit from the extensive collaboration between the IAC and the wider nuclear industry through the South West Nuclear Hub.
The Bristol Physics Graduate Research Community
If successful, you will become a member of the Physics Graduate School, a vibrant and diverse community of 200-plus research students from a wide range of countries and backgrounds. The Graduate School:
How do I apply?
You will need (1) a CV, (2) a Personal Statement, which is a one- to two-page document introducing yourself and outlining your motivation for PhD research, and (3) a transcript of any qualifying degrees (completed and/or underway).
You do not need a research proposal but you must specify a research theme or academic supervisor. Please contact the academics within the School of Physics research areas for information.
Applicants will be assessed on merit, and interviews will be held for shortlisted applicants.
You need to apply through the University of Bristol application system at http://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/. Please select Physics PhD on the Programme Choice page. The School of Physics supports Diversity and Equality, and we invite all eligible candidates to apply. We encourage applications from under-represented groups. We hold a Bronze Athena Swan award and a Physics Juno Champion award.
Please specify “Bristol Physics Research Scholarships” on the application form as your source of potential funding. Early application is encouraged. The closing date for applications to this call is 19 January 2026.
What are the candidate requirements?
A first degree in physics or a related subject, normally at a level equivalent to at least UK upper second-class honours, or a relevant postgraduate master's qualification. Please see Applying from your country | International students | University of Bristol on the International Office website.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, you need to meet English Language Profile F. Further information about this can be found here: English language requirements | Study at Bristol | University of Bristol
Admissions Statement: PhD and MSc by Research Physics Admissions Statement
Contacts and further information
Please contact the Bristol Physics Graduate School at: physics-pg@bristol.ac.uk