Program Overview

Perceptions of Nuclear Energy from Gender Perspectives

Overview

This project is delivered in partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Nuclear Doctoral Focal Award in Radiation Protection, Nuclear Safety and Environmental Sustainability (RAPTOR), which offers students a coordinated, industry-engaged route to develop cutting-edge expertise. The goal is to train 60 PhD students to deliver practical solutions across the civil and defence nuclear sectors with work shaped by national priorities, scientific curiosity, and real-world needs from industry.

About this Opportunity

Engagements have shown that women are typically less supportive of nuclear power and technologies, including Small Modular Reactors. The aim of this PhD will be to determine "Why?" According to some research, it has nothing to do with education and level of knowledge, and the project will investigate how different risk perceptions shape their attitude, for instance, is it trust in institutions or is it fear for kids' safety? The PhD would also explore what potential strategies could help close the gap.

The student recruited to this project will be part of RAPTOR, a new EPSRC Doctoral Focal Award programme focused on radiation protection, environmental sustainability, and nuclear safety. You will be based at the University of Liverpool and will undertake an intensive training programme in year 1, which leads to a PgCert, co-designed and co-delivered by partner institutions and Industry. This PhD programme offers a unique opportunity to join a vibrant, inclusive cohort focused on addressing major interdisciplinary challenges in nuclear science and engineering. It unites leading academic expertise with strong partnerships across the nuclear industry and will train students in nationally critical skills in cutting-edge nuclear technologies.

Who is this For?

• Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a Master's Degree or equivalent in a relevant subject.
• Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor's Degree in an appropriate field or significant relevant experience will also be considered.

How to Apply

1. Contact Supervisors: Candidates wishing to apply should complete the University of Liverpool application form to apply for a PhD in Politics.
2. Prepare Application Documents: You may need the following documents to complete your online application:

• A research proposal (this should cover the research you'd like to undertake)
• University transcripts and degree certificates to date
• Passport details (international applicants only)
• English language certificates (international applicants only)
• A personal statement
• A curriculum vitae (CV)
• Contact details for two proposed supervisors
• Names and contact details of two referees.

3. Apply: Finally, register and apply online.

Funding your PhD

• This UKRI funded Studentship will cover full tuition fees (for this, it is £5,238 pa) and pay a maintenance grant for 4 years, at an enhanced stipend rate (for this, it is £26,000 pa).
• The Studentship also comes with access to additional funding in the form of a Research Training Support Grant to fund consumables, conference attendance, etc.
• UKRI Studentships are available to any prospective student wishing to apply, including both home and international students.
• While UKRI funding will not cover international fees, a limited number of scholarships to meet the fee difference will be available to support outstanding international students.

Inclusivity and Support

The University is committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations, including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities, or other personal circumstances. For example, if you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result. The University believes everyone deserves an excellent education and encourages students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply.