About our Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)
The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Skills And Training Underpinning a Renaissance in Nuclear (SATURN) trains the next generation of researchers to lead in nuclear fission, supporting the UK's energy and net zero goals.
Why nuclear fission matters
Since the 2004 Energy Act, nuclear fission has been a vital part of the UK's Energy and Net Zero Strategies. As nuclear energy remains key to a low-carbon energy future, the UK is recognised globally for its expertise in safe and efficient decommissioning, and managing nuclear legacies.
SATURN CDT equips future leaders with expertise in decommissioning, advancing nuclear technologies, and shaping nuclear policy. Our programme is at the forefront of developing skilled professionals to lead in these critical areas, ensuring sustainable and secure energy for the future.
Our research themes
The primary goal of the SATURN CDT is to equip researchers with advanced training across nuclear fission science and engineering, focusing on three key themes:
Current nuclear programmes
This theme includes decommissioning and environmental cleanup, managing spent fuel and nuclear materials, geological disposal solutions, current reactor operations, and new reactor builds.
Future nuclear energy
We explore the potential of advanced reactors (from gas-cooled to liquid metal-cooled systems) and advanced fuel cycles, alongside pioneering research into fusion technologies and remote handling capabilities.
Nuclear energy in a broader context
This theme examines nuclear energy’s economic, regulatory, and societal aspects, integrating cross-sector technologies like robotics and systems engineering to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and safety.
Why join SATURN CDT?
We address a critical skills gap
More than half of the civil nuclear workforce and 70% of specialised experts are set to retire by 2025, creating a significant skills gap.
- SATURN is designed to fill the skills gap.
- We train highly employable nuclear scientists and engineers.
- Our programme prepares you to join the next generation of nuclear leaders.
Ready to shape the future of nuclear fission?
