Nuclear collaboration

The National Nuclear Laboratory (

) and the University of Central Lancashire (

) have joined forces to work on research projects in the field of nuclear research and development.

The collaborative agreement will see the groups exploring a range of research and business opportunities in key areas, including nuclear decontamination and decommissioning, dose rates, radiological impact and environmental issues.

The NNL, which is based in six locations throughout the UK, will offer its expertise to the UCLan’s science and engineering students in the form of teaching material, lectures and design projects.

In addition to advancing research in the field, it is hoped the partnership will improve recruitment into the NNL by identifying students who will benefit from research and mentoring through their degree courses. The partnership will also support students via bursaries and vocational placements at NNL establishments.

Dr Graham Baldwin, pro vice-chancellor (skills and employer engagement), UCLan, said: ‘This is great news for our students in science and engineering or those thinking of coming to UCLan. It adds another dimension to the university’s capability. The strength of the collaboration is in the relative position of each organisation as a leader in its field.’

Dr Peter Bleasdale, managing director of the NNL, said: ‘We have been working with UCLan for some time and this is a natural extension of that relationship. We believe in growing expertise and developing students and employees in a culture of learning combined with business disciplines. This is an exciting development and demonstrates our commitment to the development of these skills in our field.'