The South West Nuclear Hub, based at the University of Bristol, is has strengthened its research network by welcoming the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) as its latest member.
This is the latest step in a long relationship between the NNL and the University of Bristol that began with the Bristol-Oxford Nuclear Research Centre and continued with the establishment of the South West Nuclear Hub.
A signing of the original Memorandum of Understanding took place on Monday 7th December 2015 that has since facilitated the growth and development of the UK’s technical nuclear energy capability, through strong research and skills investment.
The NNL is a significant supporter and partner of research in the South West Nuclear Hub network, for example in the Robotics for Nuclear Environments, PACIFIC and DISTINCTIVE programmes.
Most recently the NNL and the South West Nuclear Hub is looking to collaborate in the area of corrosion and oxidation, a current significant industrial challenge relating to the operating life of nuclear power plants.
Professor Tom Scott, Director of the South West Nuclear Hub said: “We’re very pleased to welcome the National Nuclear Laboratory on board. We will be able to work together on nationally important projects to drive innovation for the sector and ensure prosperity for the region.”
Finally Professor Andrew Sherry, NNL’s Chief Scientist, said: "Given the considerable cost challenges faced by the nuclear sector our links to the skills, science and innovation developed at our world-leading universities are crucial. We are delighted to become an associate member of the South West Nuclear Hub, building on our long association with Bristol, and look forward to a positive future."
Further information
The National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) plays a key role in the UK and global nuclear industry. That means reducing the cost of clean-up and decommissioning, maintaining critical skills and attracting talented new people to the industry.
Since 2008, the NNL has been providing independent advice to the UK Government and working with other National Laboratories around the world, as well as delivering a full range of research and technology to support the nuclear fuel cycle.
The South West Nuclear Hub, based at University of Bristol, brings together academia, industry and the whole of the nuclear supply chain, acting as the focal point for the regional nuclear community and address technical challenges faced by the industry. The Hub will play an ever more important role as the construction and development of Hinkley Point C in North Somerset gathers pace.
This video shows Lucy Platts, a graduate chemist at NNL, using the facilities at the University of Bristol, demonstrating the significant collaboration possible between the two institutions.