University of York to lead £8m programme to train next generation of nuclear scientists

University of York is leading an £8m programme called the physics-led applications for nuclear technology programme (PLANET). 

The aim is to train at least 80 nuclear scientists who are ready for industry, as part of a national plan to increase the number of nuclear specialists in the UK. 

The PLANET programme is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and industry, and will prepare students for jobs in national security, clean energy and healthcare.

The programme brings together nuclear physics groups from the universities of York, Surrey and Edinburgh, as well as nuclear engineering groups from Cambridge and Lancaster. 

It is part of a wider £65.6m Government investment to train 500 workers by 2034 and is focused on connecting fundamental science with practical solutions for the energy sector.

Professor David Jenkins, director of the PLANET centre for doctoral training at the University of York, said: “Nuclear technology is central to the UK’s prosperity and growth. 

“From developing medical isotopes for cancer treatment to ensuring the safety of our nuclear deterrent and advancing our clean energy goals.

“We need a new generation of experts who understand nuclear science from the initial research all the way to real-world use. This project is here to build that workforce.”