Now recruiting MSc & PhD students for fully funded research in radiation-induced corrosion, electrochemistry, and metallurgy. Apply for Fall 2025 intake.

Fully Funded MSc and PhD Opportunities in Radiation-Induced Corrosion – Fall 2025 Intake

Are you looking to dive into high-impact research that bridges fundamental science and real-world application in the nuclear industry? We are currently recruiting 2–3 fully funded MSc and PhD students to join our lab starting Fall 2025 to work on cutting-edge projects in radiation-induced corrosion.

These graduate research opportunities are ideal for students with interests in nuclear science, radiation chemistry, electrochemistry, corrosion engineering, and metallurgy. Successful candidates will have the chance to work on projects in direct collaboration with industry leaders like Velan, providing both academic excellence and practical experience.

Overview of Research Projects

1. Assessment of Corrosion Coatings in Radiation Environments

This project, conducted in partnership with Velan, focuses on evaluating the performance of corrosion-resistant coatings exposed to radiation, specifically in nuclear reactor core environments.

Ideal candidate background:

• Interest in nuclear energy applications

• Background in electrochemistry, materials science, or metallurgy

• Desire to gain industry collaboration experience

• Strong motivation for applied materials research

2. Identification of Radiation Products and Corrosion Effects

This project investigates the radiolytic products formed during radiation exposure and their role in corrosion mechanisms. It will involve advanced chromatography and chemical analysis.

Ideal candidate background:

• Passion for radiation chemistry and analytical chemistry

• Interest in chromatographic techniques and radiolysis

• Willingness to explore new chemical characterization methods

3. Characterization of Radiation-Produced Hydrogen Absorption

This project delves into how hydrogen produced by radiation interacts with metals and contributes to hydrogen embrittlement and corrosion.

Ideal candidate background:

• Expertise or interest in hydrogen-metal interactions

• Focus on novel electrochemical characterization techniques

• Background in corrosion science or radiation chemistry

What You’ll Gain as a Graduate Researcher

Students selected for these roles will benefit from a rich, multidisciplinary training environment where fundamental science meets industry relevance.

Technical Skill Development:

• Corrosion science and metal degradation mechanisms

• Electrochemical instrumentation and measurement techniques

• Radiation chemistry, including effects of radiolysis and ionizing radiation

• Use of advanced characterization tools: spectroscopy, chromatography, microscopy

Professional and Academic Enrichment:

• Opportunity to attend national and international conferences annually

• Regular collaboration with industry partners like Velan

• Scientific communication, presentation, and writing skills

• Leadership and networking opportunities within the research community

Who Should Apply?

We are seeking enthusiastic, curious, and committed graduate students with strong academic backgrounds in any of the following areas:

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Materials Science

• Metallurgy

• Nuclear Engineering

• Chemical Engineering

Applicants must demonstrate an interest in one or more of the following: radiation chemistry, electrochemistry, nuclear technology, corrosion science, or materials engineering.

Working Environment and Culture

We pride ourselves on creating a flexible, inclusive, and supportive research environment. Students can expect:

• One-on-one mentoring and regular progress evaluations

• Opportunities for collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams

• A culture that values diversity, balance, and mental wellness

• The space to explore independent ideas and technical challenges

This program is designed to provide a launchpad for academic, research, or industry careers, equipping graduates with both deep scientific knowledge and strong soft skills.

Future Career Pathways

Upon completion of your MSc or PhD, you will possess advanced expertise and transferable skills that are in high demand across various sectors, including:

• Nuclear energy and safety organizations

• Aerospace and defense industries

• Materials development and testing labs

• Government research agencies (e.g., CNSC, DOE, AECL)

• Academia and technical consulting roles

You will also have the training needed to pursue postdoctoral research, policy-making roles, or scientific entrepreneurship.

Application Process

Application Requirements:

• A current CV or résumé

• A short statement of interest or motivation

• Copies of unofficial transcripts

• Reference contact information (optional at initial contact)

How to Apply:

Please send your application materials to: lindsay.grandy@rmc.ca

Early expressions of interest are highly encouraged. We are especially keen to hear from candidates who are passionate about the nuclear field and looking for an opportunity to grow as both a scientist and professional.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Rolling, but early contact is encouraged

• Program Start Date: Fall 2025

• Interview Invitations: Expected Summer 2025

Get in Touch

Interested in transforming your academic future and contributing to innovations in nuclear and materials science? This is a rare opportunity to join a research-intensive, forward-thinking program with direct industry collaboration and real-world impact.

Reach out to Dr. Lindsay Grandy at lindsay.grandy@rmc.ca with your CV and area of interest today.