Course details
The Fusion Power Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) offers an immersive, interdisciplinary PhD programme designed to equip the next generation of scientists and engineers with the skills needed to drive fusion power research forward. Through a dynamic combination of taught modules, hands-on training, and cutting-edge research, the programme prepares students to tackle the scientific and engineering challenges of harnessing fusion energy.
Induction and Early Training
The programme kicks off with an intensive induction week, where students meet their cohort and key faculty, setting expectations for academic and collaborative success. This is followed by a front-loaded primary taught programme over the first six months, aimed at building strong interdisciplinary foundations. Students choose to specialize in either the Materials or Plasma strand, but all attend core modules in fusion science, leadership, and research skills at partner universities.
Taught Modules and Core Skills
Core modules cover essential topics such as Materials Science, Plasma Physics, Reactor Vessel Materials, and Tritium Science, with hands-on experimental training in plasma diagnostics and materials analysis. Specialist modules like High-Magnetic-Field Superconducting Technologies and Inertial Confinement Fusion delve deeper into advanced research areas, supported by dedicated learning facilities at York and other partner institutions. Themes like leadership, sustainability, and equality are woven throughout the curriculum.
Hands-On Learning and Industry Exposure
Students engage in practical research from day one, with opportunities for hands-on experiments, industry collaborations, and international placements. A unique Collaboratory experience mimics the real-world grant application process, providing valuable project management and networking experience. Annual events, such as the Power Plant Design Week and Frontiers of Fusion Workshop, bring together students and global experts to work on high-level fusion challenges.
Research and Professional Development
From months 7 to 48, students focus on their research projects, mentored by leading academics and industry experts. The CDT places a strong emphasis on developing leadership, communication, and outreach skills, encouraging students to engage with public audiences, raise awareness about fusion power, and inspire the next generation of scientists.
Graduates of the Fusion Power CDT emerge as leaders ready to shape the future of fusion energy.
