Nuclear Research at Manchester
Advancing the future of clean energy, technology and society.
At The University of Manchester, our nuclear research stands at the forefront of global innovation, driving solutions across the full nuclear fuel cycle, from fundamental science to real-world application.
Through world-leading expertise, cutting-edge facilities and deep industry collaboration, we are shaping a safe, sustainable and low-carbon future.
A world-leading nuclear research community
Our nuclear activity is brought together through the Dalton Nuclear Institute, the most advanced academic nuclear research capability in the UK.
Spanning multiple disciplines and faculties, we deliver integrated research that addresses the most pressing challenges in energy, environment and society.
From fission and fusion to health, materials and policy, Manchester is uniquely positioned as the only UK university covering the entire nuclear fuel cycle.
Discover how our research is transforming the nuclear landscape, from fundamental science to industrial application.
Our research themes
Decommissioning and waste management
Supporting the safe clean-up of nuclear sites and the long-term management of radioactive waste.
Fusion energy
Advancing the materials, fuels and engineering technologies needed to help make commercial fusion energy viable.
Generation, decarbonisation and sustainability
Supporting the development of advanced nuclear reactor technologies.
Nuclear fuels
Developing safer nuclear fuels and cladding materials to improve reactor performance, reliability and safety.
National security and defence
Supporting national security and defence through nuclear engineering, materials, radiation science and skills development.
Nuclear medicine
Supporting safer diagnosis and treatment through research into radiation biology, cancer therapy and nuclear healthcare technologies.
Work with our researchers
Our research community works with partners across academia, industry, government and the wider nuclear sector to address complex challenges through collaborative research.