Nuclear research facilities
At The University of Manchester, we are at the forefront of nuclear science and innovation, hosting a diverse range of specialist laboratories and cutting-edge facilities.
Our research tackles some of the nuclear sector’s most pressing challenges, delivering solutions that save the industry millions each year.
As a recognised leader in the field, we play a key role in the National Nuclear User Facility (NNUF) scheme, proudly hosting six of its 24 funded facilities – a testament to our expertise and impact. With over 15 dedicated nuclear research facilities, we continue to advance both fundamental science and industry-driven solutions.
Discover some of our ground-breaking facilities below and see how we’re driving innovation in the nuclear industry.
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The Dalton Cumbrian Facility
The Dalton Cumbrian Facility hosts a variety of industry-leading radiation science facilities allowing academia and industry to carry out high-end research in radiation health effects and nuclear decommissioning.
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Nuclear Engineering Science and Technology Laboratory (NEST)
The NEST Facility supports advanced nuclear research in fission and fusion, specialising in molten salt technology, aqueous processes, and radionuclide analysis, with infrastructure for safe handling and waste management.
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The Centre for Radiochemistry Research (CRR)
Part of the NNUF scheme, the CRR advances radiochemistry research, focusing on synthesis in molten salts, recycling, and traditional aqueous and organic solvent chemistry, supported by cutting-edge facilities for nuclear studies.
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RADioactive waste management and Environmental Remediation (RADER)
A legacy of the NNUF scheme, RADER delves into RADioactive waste management and Environmental Remediation. It supports research into characterising and understanding the behaviour of radionuclides in engineered and natural environments.
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Fuels and Irradiated Materials Analysis
The Fuels and Irradiated Materials Analysis platform is an open-access facility for nuclear materials research, supporting various academic and industry collaborations. It offers an advanced facility for manufacturing and testing nuclear fuels within the Nuclear Fuel Centre of Excellence, and another for analysing uranium, graphite, and thorium materials.
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Modelling and Simulation Centre (MaSC)
Born from a collaboration between the University and EDF, the Modelling and Simulation Centre (MaSC) has focused on the development of high-level numerical methods and physical modelling to tackle industrial challenges in fluid dynamics, thermal hydraulics and structural mechanics.
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Manufacturing Technology Research Laboratory (MTRL)
The MTRL facility is responsible for manufacturing technology for research and construction conducted by both industry and the School of Engineering.
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Metallurgy and corrosion
The University of Manchester’s metals and corrosion research is the largest UK activity dedicated to research on the development, properties, and performance of metals and alloys for demanding environments across all applications.
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Centre for Robotics and AI
The Centre for Robotics and AI (CRAI) consists of several groups dedicated to developing robotics and autonomous systems to tackle challenges in extreme environments. These groups include:
- The Robotics for Extreme Environments Group (REEG)
- The Centre for Robotic Autonomy in Demanding and Long-Lasting Environments (CRADLE), which originated from the University’s industrial partnership with Amentum
- Hot Robotics RAICo1, which resulted from the University’s collaboration with the Hot Robotics Program
- The Autonomy and Verification Group
Together, these groups work to push the boundaries of robotic capabilities in challenging conditions.
Related facilities
The work conducted by these facilities can be completed from start to finish within the University’s scope, thanks to the support of various other facilities involved in preparation and characterisation efforts. Many facilities contribute to this research, including:
