Fall/Winter External Research Opportunities 2025
Expandable List
The International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) is a unique collaboration between McMaster University (Office of the International Affairs, Student Success Centre, Black Student Success Centre, and the African-Caribbean Faculty Association of McMaster), Empowerment Squared, and Schools of Dreams. Funded by Global Affairs Canada, this exciting, culturally immersive international internship program offers a four-month, funded internship in Liberia and Ghana for 100 individuals, divided into six cohorts. Participants gain professional skills and global perspectives and engage in community-driven projects.
Eligibility Requirements
- 18-30 years old at the date of travel (September 2025).
- Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Have a passport with at least 6 months’ validity at the date of travel.
- Willing to commit to a 4-month program, including a 3-month stay in the destination country.
Applications are now open! Applications for Cohort 4 will be accepted from Thursday October 16 until January 23, 2026, however you will be able to apply for future cohorts on an ongoing basis.
To learn more, visit the Empowerment Squared page.
Mitacs Accelerate creates dynamic collaborations that partner for-profit and not-for-profit organizations with Canada’s brightest academic minds. This research award provides leveraged funding of $15,000 CAD per four- or six-month internship, where interns will work collaboratively with their academic supervisor and partner organization on a research project.
To learn more, visit the Mitacs page.
Contact bd@mitacs.ca
Spring/Summer External Research Opportunities 2026
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Undergraduate Summer Research Experience
The call for applications for the Summer 2026 cohort will open on January 5, 2026 through AwardSpring (mcmaster.awardspring.ca).
The Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) Undergraduate Summer Research Experience is a new offering to support students seeking to develop research and nuclear workforce skills and to inspire future leaders in nuclear science and engineering.
These experiences will be awarded to undergraduate students in the Faculties of Science and Engineering who express an interest in pursuing a nuclear-related summer research work experience with a faculty member at McMaster. In alignment with McMaster and CNL’s strategic priorities, areas of research interest include but are not limited to:
- Supporting the development of biological applications and understanding the implications of radiation on living things.
- Supporting environmental stewardship and radioactive waste management.
- Enhancing national and global security, nuclear preparedness and emergency response.
- Supporting safe, secure and responsible use and development of nuclear technologies.
Find out more on the CNL website.
Inclusive of the award, recipients will travel as a cohort to CNL in Chalk River, for a two-week work-related experience where they will be hosted at Canada’s nationally funded nuclear laboratories. Expenditures related to the work field experience, such as travel and accommodation and coordinated events will be supported by CNL funding. Recipients will also be paired with a CNL co-supervisor for additional mentorship opportunities and to provide guidance related to research projects.
Questions? Please check the FAQ section, and if you could not find the answer to your question, then contact:
Faculty of Engineering Students: Samantha Mahoney (engresearch@mcmaster.ca)
Faculty of Science Students: Ali Solhi (solhia1@mcmaster.ca)
Expandable List
To be eligible to apply, you must:
- be a current full-time student in Level 2, 3, or 4 of an Undergraduate Program in the Faculty of Engineering or the Faculty of Science at McMaster University
- have a minimum cGPA of B-
- have been registered at the time of application in at least one of the two terms immediately before holding the award
You are not eligible if you:
- have completed all your degree requirements and are no longer registered in an Undergraduate Program in the Faculty of Engineering or the Faculty of Science at McMaster University at the time of your application
- have started a program of graduate studies
CNL Research Experiences have a value of $10,000 each (minimum rate of pay for students would be $17.60 per hour), payable as employment income; students will be employed by McMaster University, working with a research supervisor who is typically located on or near the main campus.
Students are strongly encouraged to register their research positions as co-op work-terms with their Science/Engineering Co-op and Career Office.
The duration of the award is 16 weeks on a full-time basis during the Spring/Summer terms, which includes a 2-week on-site research experience at the CNL facility in Chalk River, Ontario in mid July (dates to be confirmed). Recipients will be primarily based on campus to carry out their summer research experience with their faculty supervisor.
- Ensure that you are eligible
- Log in to AwardSpring (awardspring.mcmaster.ca) anytime after January 5, 2026 and select the CNL USRE award from your dashboard (Note: this award will only appear if you have completed the intake questions and meet the minimum eligibility criteria). Complete the supplemental application questions, including a statement about your candidacy, attach your unofficial transcript, and select your top two preferred projects.
Apply to the 2026 CNL USRE Here
Applications will undergo evaluation by the primary faculty member(s) leading the research project with support from representatives in the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Engineering, and CNL. The selection process will consider the following criteria:
- Academic excellence, including cumulative GPA and relevant coursework completed by the applicant.
- Quality of written response addressing the question: why are you interested in participating in this research project?
- Verification of whether the student fulfills the outlined requirements specified in the project description, and in the CNL USRE general eligibility listed above.
Results will be emailed directly to the recipient(s) and payment will be issued in accordance with the Faculty’s pay procedures.
- Interim report in a verbal or virtual meeting halfway through the research experience will be scheduled for CNL, recipients and McMaster Principal Investigators. This will provide networking opportunities for McMaster Principal Investigators and CNL researchers in addition to providing mentorship and learning opportunities for recipients.
- McMaster will host an opportunity for the CNL cohort to present their research posters at the Annual Summer Research Showcase.
- Inclusive of the research experience, recipients will travel to Chalk River Laboratories or other sites managed by CNL as applicable, on a 2-week work-related experience where they will be hosted by CNL.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) Undergraduate Summer Research Experience
General Information
Q1: What is the CNL Undergraduate Summer Research Experience?
A: The CNL Undergraduate Summer Research Experience is a summer research opportunity for undergraduate students in the Faculties of Science and Engineering at McMaster University. Participants engage in nuclear-related research projects under faculty supervision and receive mentorship from CNL researchers. The program also includes a two-week experiential learning visit to CNL in Chalk River, funded by CNL.
Eligibility & Application
Q2: Who is eligible to apply for the program?
A: The program is open to undergraduate students currently enrolled in Level 2, 3, or 4 in the Faculty of Science or Faculty of Engineering at McMaster University. Level 1 students are not eligible.
Q3: I am a student in the Faculty of Health Sciences. Can I apply?
A: Unfortunately, at this time, the program is only open to students registered in the Faculty of Science or Faculty of Engineering.
Q4a: I switched programs recently. Should I include my previous program’s grades in my cumulative GPA calculation?
A: Yes, applicants should include all terms from their undergraduate studies, including any previous programs they were enrolled in at McMaster.
Q4b: I am currently enrolled in PNB, which begins as a second-year program, should I include the grades from my first year, when I was enrolled in the Life Sciences program?
A: Yes, applicants should include all terms from their undergraduate studies, including any previous programs they were enrolled in at McMaster.
Q5: I am in my fifth year and will be graduating soon. Am I eligible?
A: If you are graduating this year then unfortunately you are not eligible to participate in the program. However, if you will still be enrolled in a Science or Engineering Undergraduate program in the summer, then you are eligible to participate and apply.
Q6: I’m in first year and am very interested in the program. Are exceptions ever granted for first year students to participate?
A: Unfortunately, the level of study is outlined in the agreement with CNL so we do not have any flexibility around this, and as such, we cannot grant any exceptions.
Chalk River Work Experience
Q7: Do I need to arrange my own transportation and accommodation for the two-week visit to Chalk River?
A: No, transportation and accommodation will be arranged and covered by CNL. Students will stay in a hotel or residence during their time in Chalk River.
Q8: I do not own a vehicle. How will I commute during the two-week visit?
A: Transportation to and from Hamilton and Chalk River will be coordinated by the program. Additionally, daily transportation between the accommodation and the CNL facility will be provided.
Program Expectations & Safety
Safety Measures at McMaster University
All research labs and researchers at McMaster University conducting radioactive work are subject to RMM-700: Radiation Safety Program for University Laboratories (https://healthphysics.mcmaster.ca/app/uploads/2021/10/RMM700_December_2017.pdf). The program is implemented by the Health Physics Department to ensure compliance with the Canadian Nuclear Safety and Control Act and Regulations, and its overall objectives are to prevent deterministic effects (i.e. Radiation injuries), minimize the possibility of stochastic effects to works and to protect the public and environment by requiring doses be maintained As Low As Reasonably Achievable.
To answer the questions provided:
Q1. What barriers are in place to cut off or minimize exposure to radiation?
A: The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) provides act and regulations that all licensees are required to follow with regards to conducting any work with radioactive materials. All personnel working in a research lab, and any campus facility in which nuclear substances are present, stored, or used, are required to complete radiation safety training and be designated as a Nuclear Energy Worker (NEW). The CNSC provides regulatory dose limits for NEWs as 50 mSv in one year or 100 mSv in five years (an average of 20 mSv per year). McMaster University has established Administrative Control Levels for all facilities with more controlled effective dose limits of 2 mSv per year. All doses obtained by individuals working at McMaster University are kept As Low As Reasonably Achievable, social and economic factors taken into account.
As to barriers used to minimize radiation exposure, there are three key factors utilized:
Engineering Controls – shielding of radioactive work and storage areas, secure storage of radioactive materials, use of containment areas as applicable (such as fume hoods, hot cells, etc.), access restrictions, radiation area alarms for high hazard areas
Administrative Controls – training, standard operating procedures, contamination and radiation area posting, high hazard work planning, dosimetry, permit designations
Personal Controls – PPE such as gloves and lab coats, consumable restrictions in radioactive work areas
Q2. Is the amount of radiation exposed to measure by an instrument for each employee? If so, how is it measured?
A: Yes, McMaster University continuously monitors radiation exposures to individuals who utilizes thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) provided by a licenced dosimetry service and electronic personal dosimeters (EPDs) to monitor individual radiation exposure. Depending on the scope of work, some individuals may also be issued extremity dosimeters to monitor the dose to the hands. The TLDs and extremity dosimeters get exchanged on a quarterly basis and doses are reviewed by Health Physics. These results are posted outside of the Health Physics Administrative Office for review or are available upon request. A annual exposure report is provided to all individuals who have been issued a TLD and/or extremity dosimeter. EPDs are set with dose and dose rate alarm set-points to align with the scope of work. These units provide a live read, so doses can be tracked easily by individuals.
Bioassay measurements are also available for individuals working with radioiodines in the lab or as directed by the Health Physics Department.
Q3. What is the typical amount of exposure an employee at CNL receives in a year of work? Understanding this, how much radiation exposure would be estimated to a CNL USRE participant?”
A: In general, individuals are exposed to approximately 3 mSv of background radiation a year from naturally occurring sources in the environment. The typical exposure an employee at McMaster University receives depends on their work location and scope of work. For example, individuals who work in the reactor tend to see higher overall doses compared to individuals who work in research labs. Individuals conducting radioactive work in a research lab typically receive less than 0.1 mSv per year, and student doses are typically lower due to more limited exposure. This would be equivalent to the dose received in about 1 chest x-ray
Safety Measures at CNL
Note: Safety training (Group 4 training) will be provided and required by all successful candidates.
Q1: What are the working hours during the two-week visit to Chalk River?
A: Specific work hours will be confirmed closer to the visit, but participants should expect a full-time research experience during normal business hours.
Q2: What safety measures are in place to protect students from radiation exposure?
A: CNL follows strict radiation safety regulations set by the CNSC, which limits radiation exposure for Nuclear Energy Workers to 5,000 mrem/year or 10,000 mrem over five years. Each CNL site enforces Action Levels below these limits and applies ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles to minimize exposure.
Key radiation protection measures include:
- Engineering controls – shielding, containment, ventilation, alarms, and access restrictions.
- Administrative controls – work planning, exposure optimization, and radiological zone classifications.
- Personal protective measures – PPE, food and beverage restrictions, and dosimeter use.
Radiological work areas are clearly marked, and all staff are trained to follow strict protocols, including adhering to safety postings, using dosimeters, and reporting unusual radiological situations. Exposure reduction follows three main strategies:
- Time – Minimizing time spent near radiation sources.
- Distance – Maximizing distance from sources.
- Shielding – Using barriers between workers and sources.
Q3: Is radiation exposure measured for employees and students?
A: Yes, radiation exposure at CNL is continuously monitored using dosimeters and personal alarming devices (PADs):
- Dosimeter Badges – Worn by workers in controlled areas to officially track external radiation exposure (CNSC-approved).
- Personal Alarming Dosimeters (PADs) – Provide real-time dose and dose rate monitoring with alarms if limits are exceeded.
- Bioassay & Body Counting – Used for internal exposure monitoring.
- Exposure Reports – Employees receive at least one official exposure report annually and can request updates anytime.
Q4: What is the typical radiation exposure for an employee at CNL? How does this compare to students in the program?
A: For context, the average North American receives 620 mrem/year from natural background radiation. At CNL, the average occupational dose for employees at Chalk River Laboratories is 27 mrem/year—significantly lower than other professions like airline flight crews (400–600 mrem/year) or medical personnel (70 mrem/year).
USRE participants would receive even lower doses, as they typically have limited exposure to radiological work environments and are subject to strict radiation safety measures.
2026 Projects
Coming Soon!
Please check back January 5, 2026.
Check out more External Research Opportunities offered for Spring/Summer 2026:
The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute Undergraduate Summer Research Program provides opportunities for undergraduate to work throughout the summer in a laboratory at the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute. Students will work on a project assigned to them by their laboratory supervisor gaining valuable experience and research skills. In addition, students will be required to summarize their work in the form of a poster presentation at an event near the end of the summer.
Students will be expected to complete a twelve (12) week period at the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute and work full-time hours (37.5 hours per week). Students will be paid at an hourly rate of $17.60 + 4% vacation pay.
To apply you must meet the following requirements:
- Completed, at the minimum, second undergraduate year of a recognized university science program by May 2026.
The deadline to apply is January 30, 2026.
To learn more details about the application process, please visit the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute website or contact Susan Chou by email a schou@lunenfeld.ca if you require further clarifications.
Hosted by the University of Toronto, the Amgen Scholars Canada Program is an immersive,10-week program of research experience, professional development and social activities. It is open to undergraduates from across Canada with Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
To apply you must meet the following requirements:
- Current enrollment at an accredited university in Canada as a second, third or non-graduating fourth year undergraduate student
- Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- An interest in pursuing an M.Sc., Ph.D. or an M.D./Ph.D.
- A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.2 (on a 4.0 scale)
The program runs from May 11, 2026 to July 19, 2026. The deadline to apply is February 1, 2026.
To learn more details about the application process, please visit the Amgen Scholars Canada Program – University of Toronto page or contact amgen.scholars@utoronto.ca if you require further clarifications.
The Keenan Research Summer Student (KRSS) Program provides opportunities for undergraduate and medical students to conduct research at Unity Health Toronto (St. Michael’s Hospital site) under the supervision of a Principal Investigator (scientist and/or MD).
To learn more details about the application process, please visit the KRSS Program website or contact KRSS.Program@unityhealth.to if you require further clarifications.
Mitacs Accelerate creates dynamic collaborations that partner for-profit and not-for-profit organizations with Canada’s brightest academic minds. This research award provides leveraged funding of $15,000 CAD per four- or six-month internship, where interns will work collaboratively with their academic supervisor and partner organization on a research project.
To learn more, visit the Mitacs page or contact bd@mitacs.ca.
Information from IQC:
The Undergraduate School on Experimental Quantum Information Processing (USEQIP) is a two-week program on the theoretical and experimental study of quantum information aimed primarily at students one year away from completing their undergraduate studies.
The lectures and experiments are geared toward students in engineering, physics, chemistry, mathematics and computer science, though all interested students are invited to apply. USEQIP is held annually at the University of Waterloo since 2009 with over 400 program alumni to date.
The summer school is staffed by the faculty of the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC), a multi-disciplinary research centre at the University of Waterloo and an internationally recognized leader in the field of quantum information processing.
USEQIP offers:
- Two weeks of in-depth lectures and lab activities at the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC)
- Paid summer research opportunities available through Undergraduate Research Awards
- Opportunities spanning theory and experiment
- No cost to students and travel bursaries available
- Space for 30 students.
USEQIP 2026 will be held from May 25 to June 5, 2026. Applications are due Friday, January 2, 2026. Late applications will not be considered. References are due Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
To learn more and apply, visit the Undergraduate School on Experimental Quantum Information Processing (USEQIP) website or contact iqc-outreach@uwaterloo.ca.
The SSuRe Program offers undergraduate students a unique opportunity to collaborate with Research Institute (RI) scientists on a summer research project, providing professional and career development. Spanning 15 weeks from May to mid-August, the program hosts a range of activities to enhance the students’ research experience. Weekly seminars, conducted by esteemed Hospital and RI scientists, provide valuable insights and knowledge in various fields. Additionally, a Career Night event allows students to network with research staff from different departments within the RI, fostering connections and exploring potential career paths. The program also culminates in the annual Summer Student Symposium, where students have the chance to showcase their research projects. Exceptional projects are recognized with awards, celebrating the students’ outstanding contributions to the scientific community.
The deadline for students to submit their applications to posted Research Summer Student positions is listed under each job posting.
To learn more, visit the SickKids Summer Research (SSuRe) Program page.
Sunnybrook Research Institute offers a Summer Student Research Program that provides undergraduate students with a unique hospital-based research experience and showcases the postgraduate environment as a prospective career. The program, which runs from May to late August, starts with an orientation to SRI, and is followed by regular seminars whereby leading faculty talk about their research. In August, students present their work at the Summer Student Poster Competition.
To learn more, visit the Sunnybrook Research Institute or contact summer.student@sri.utoronto.ca.
The Hurvitz Brain Sciences Summer Student Research Program offers undergraduate students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a hospital-based research program. Summer studentships typically run from May to September of each year, culminating in an end of summer studentship Presentation Day. Students will also be able to attend regular seminars led by Sunnybrook Research Institute whereby leading faculty talk about their research
To learn more, visit the Hurvitz Brain Sciences Summer Student Research Program or contact summer.student@sri.utoronto.ca.
About Operation Wallacea
Wallacea (Opwall) is a network of academics from European and North American universities who design and implement biodiversity conservation management and climate change research programs. Operation Wallacea’s expeditions provide students with invaluable field experience, working alongside real-world scientific research projects and contributing to the understanding and conservation of biodiversity.
Full information on our virtual presentations can be found here.
If for any reason you can’t attend but are interested in finding out more then please email expeditions@opwall.com.
Key Information
- Dates & Costs
- Updated details are available in our latest brochure: View 2025 Expedition Details.
- Why Join?
- Gain invaluable field experience, contribute to active research projects, and enhance your résumé with practical skills.
- Key Benefits:
- Experience diverse environments, receive training in SCUBA, survey techniques, and jungle skills, and be part of a global conservation community.
Expedition Destinations
1. South Africa
- Conduct research on iconic species like African lions and rhinos in one of the most endangered biodiversity hotspots in the world. Participate in conservation courses, large mammal distribution surveys, and analyze camera trap data. Optionally, complete an Introduction to Applied Conservation GIS course.
- Learn more: South Africa Expedition
- Watch our video: South Africa Expedition Video
2. Honduras
- Begin in the cloud forests of Cusuco National Park, known for its rich biodiversity. Engage in diverse research activities including butterfly trapping, amphibian and reptile surveys, and more. Follow up with marine research at Tela Marine Research Centre or Utila Island, focusing on SCUBA diving training and coral reef ecology.
- Learn more: Honduras Expedition
- Watch our video: Honduras Expedition Video
3. Mexico
- Research in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve and engage in marine studies at Akumal. Projects include monitoring sea turtle populations and studying reef ecology. Participants can also complete a PADI Open Water dive training course.
- Learn more: Mexico Expedition
- Watch our video: Mexico Expedition Video
4. Croatia
- Explore the Adriatic Sea’s marine biodiversity. Participate in various marine conservation projects and learn about underwater ecosystems.
- Learn more: Croatia Expedition
- Watch our video: Croatia Expedition Video
5. Indonesia
- Participate in both marine and terrestrial research, focusing on coral reefs and rainforest ecosystems. This expedition includes studies on marine species and rainforest conservation efforts.
- Learn more: Indonesia Expedition
- Watch our video: Indonesia Expedition Video
6. Romania
- Newly reopened, offering opportunities to explore unique ecosystems and conservation challenges in Eastern Europe.
- Learn more: Romania Expedition
- Watch our video: Romania Expedition Video
For detailed information about each destination, please visit the website or watch our expedition videos.
Operation Wallacea provides comprehensive support, including all necessary travel from the designated start point of the expedition, food and accommodation, participation in all field research projects, SCUBA training, and full operational and medical support.
For more details, please contact Operation Wallacea at expeditions@opwall.com.
Past External Research Opportunities
Expandable List
The annual Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) in Astronomy & Astrophysics at the University of Toronto is a unique opportunity for undergraduate students in astronomy, physics, or engineering to prepare for a career in scientific research.
The program typically runs from May to August. Throughout the program students have the opportunity to:
- Experience what a career in research is like by independently conducting a project related to on-going astronomical research at U of T
- Collaborate with U of T astronomers
- Improve their research writing and communication skills
- Learn about research being conducted at U of T
- Participate in U of T public outreach
Students work with astronomers from the Dunlap Institute or the David A Dunlap Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics depending on their research interest, choice of research project, or supervisor.
SURP offers students an opportunity to work at the leading centre for astronomical research in Canada, at the leading research university in the country.
SURP is open to students who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents. If you are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and would like to apply, you must:
- be a full-time student at the University of Toronto; or
- be a full-time student in a Canadian university and have an off-campus work permit; or
- have a work permit allowing you to work with the University of Toronto
You can still apply if you have participated in the U of T Astronomy & Astrophysics SURP in previous years.
If you have any questions, please email the astro SURP committee.
As an example of the kind of work done by SURP students, research posters from SURP 2023 can be found here.
The Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care at Baycrest (Ontario CLRI) is excited to announce that this summer, we will once again be offering our Virtual Interprofessional Internship in Innovation & Aging in Long-Term Care! This program is open to students and recent graduates of post-secondary healthcare programs and is an exciting opportunity to explore a future in older adult health care, network with future and current health-care providers, and shape clinical practice.
This paid program runs from Monday, May 26 to Friday, June 20, 2025. For more information on the application process, please visit https://clri-ltc.ca/events/internship/. The application deadline is Sunday, February 23, 2025, 5:00 pm EST.
The 2025 Internship will be completely virtual, offering post-secondary students and recent graduates opportunities to actively participate in small group learning focused on aging, clinical issues in gerontology, and interprofessional competencies. Working collaboratively, interns will develop a better understanding of aging and develop competencies in seniors’ care through daily interaction in a simulation and game-based app. In addition, interns will have the opportunity to engage with residents, Baycrest leaders and participate in an innovative capstone project.
The Chalmers Astrophysics and Space Science Science Summer (CASSUM) Research Fellowship program for undergraduate / master students is now accepting applications for summer 2025.
The website listing various projects is here:
http://cosmicorigins.space/cassum
Projects will involve an in-person visit to Chalmers Univ., Gothenburg, Sweden for at least part of the 10-week program. The research projects will be conducted over a 10 week period with start date of 19th May 2025 (later starting dates may be available on request) and end date of 25th July 2025.
If you advise undergraduate / master students who may be looking for such research opportunities, please encourage them to apply to the program.
Contact jonathan.tan@chalmers.se
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Undergraduate Summer Research Experience 2025
The Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) Undergraduate Summer Research Experience is a new offering to support students seeking to develop research and nuclear workforce skills and to inspire future leaders in nuclear science and engineering.
These experiences will be awarded to undergraduate students in the Faculties of Science and Engineering who express an interest in pursuing a nuclear-related summer research work experience with a faculty member at McMaster. In alignment with McMaster and CNL’s strategic priorities, areas of research interest include but are not limited to:
- Supporting the development of biological applications and understanding the implications of radiation on living things.
- Supporting environmental stewardship and radioactive waste management.
- Enhancing national and global security, nuclear preparedness and emergency response.
- Supporting safe, secure and responsible use and development of nuclear technologies.
Find out more on the CNL website.
Inclusive of the award, recipients will travel as a cohort to CNL in Chalk River, for a two-week work-related experience where they will be hosted at Canada’s nationally funded nuclear laboratories. Expenditures related to the work field experience, such as travel and accommodation and coordinated events will be supported by CNL funding. Recipients will also be paired with a CNL co-supervisor for additional mentorship opportunities and to provide guidance related to research projects.
2025 CNL USRE, due February 12th, 5pm
2025 Projects
Project 1: Investigating the properties of materials under extreme conditions with neutron beams Explore Project 1
with Dr. Pat Clancy (McMaster), Dr. Oksana Shiman (CNL)
Student requirements: Previous lab experience or lab coursework in physics, chemistry, or engineering would be an asset for this project, but is not a strict requirement. Successful applicants will be required to complete health physics training and security screening in order to carry out work in the McMaster Nuclear Reactor.
Faculty of Science
Project 1: Investigating the properties of materials under extreme conditions with neutron beams
Neutron beams provide an ideal tool for studying the structural and magnetic properties of novel materials. In particular, neutron diffraction (or elastic neutron scattering) can be used to reveal detailed information about atomic and crystalline structure. This is essential for understanding the relationship between the structure and function of advanced materials, or in the case of many nuclear applications, investigating how these relationships change under extreme conditions of temperature, pressure, and irradiation. The McMaster Nuclear Reactor (MNR) is the only facility in Canada which provides access to neutron beams for materials research. The MNR is currently home to two instruments for neutron diffraction: the McMaster Alignment Diffractometer (MAD) and the McMaster Small Angle Neutron Scattering facility (MacSANS). These two instruments are highly complementary, with MAD intended for the study of simple atomic structures and crystalline solids, and MacSANS optimized for more complex structures and nanoscale materials. The goal of this project is to test and develop new experimental capabilities for neutron diffraction at high temperatures and/or high pressures at the McMaster Nuclear Reactor, and for characterizing the properties of irradiated (and potentially radioactive) materials using neutron beams. This project is well-aligned with CNL’s research interests in studying the effects of extreme conditions on in-reactor materials and components for CANDU and other advanced reactors.
Project 2: Radiobromination of peptide targeting vectors via cysteine modification for PET imaging and radiopharmaceutical therapy Explore Project 2
with Dr. James Inkster (McMaster) and Dr. Sventlana Selivanova (CNL)
Student requirements: Must have taken “Organic Chemistry I” or equivalent, Must be comfortable working with rodents, Must be comfortable working with ionizing radiation (SAFELY)
Faculty of Science
Project 2: Radiobromination of peptide targeting vectors via cysteine modification for PET imaging and radiopharmaceutical therapy
Project 3: Development of chelators for yttrium coordination Explore Project 3
with Dr. David Emslie (McMaster) and Dr. Svetlana Selivanova (CNL)
Please refer to the minimum eligibility criteria.
Faculty of Science
Project 3: Development of chelators for yttrium coordination
Project 4: Exploration of Quantum Materials with Neutrons Explore Project 4
with Dr. Graeme Luke (McMaster) and Dr. Zahra Yamani (CNL)
Please refer to the minimum eligibility criteria.
Faculty of Science
Project 4: Exploration of Quantum Materials with Neutrons
Project 5: actinium-225 radioimmunoconjugate for glioblastoma therapy using an orthotopic patient derived xenograft mouse model Explore Project 5
with Dr. Saman Sadeghi (McMaster) and Dr. Marcelo Vasquez (CNL)
Please refer to the minimum eligibility criteria.
Faculty of Science
Project 5: actinium-225 radioimmunoconjugate for glioblastoma therapy using an orthotopic patient derived xenograft mouse model
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) drive tumor growth and exhibit enhanced resistance to conventional therapies, leading to cancer recurrence. Prioritizing CSC imaging and elimination using therapies targeting established CSC markers such as CD133 constitute a promising approach to prevent cancer recurrence. We have previously demonstrated imaging of cancer stem cells using a CD133 targeted human IgG mAb radiolabeled with zirconium-89 ([89Zr]Zr-DFO-RW03 ) for PET imaging and lutetium-177 ([177Lu]Lu-DOTA-RW03) for targeted radioimmunotherapy using a fully human antibody. PET imaging has demonstrated favorable clearance and selective uptake in CD133 expressing tumors. In these studies we have demonstrated that in vivo radioimmunotherapy reduces tumor growth rate and increases survival time with a single dose therapy. Further optimizations would be needed with animal models that are more representative of clinical cases with lower CD133 expression. We also anticipate improved therapeutic outcomes with alpha emitters such as actinium-225. In collaboration with Dr. Singh at McMaster University, we have access to an orthotopic PDX GBM model that was developed in nod-SCID gamma (NSG) mice. This model has been characterized using MRI, bioluminescence (BLI) and ex vivo through histopathology and immunohistochemistry. We also have preliminary data showing uptake of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-RW03 in the brain. The aim of this project would be to label RW03 with Ac-225 and perform therapy studies with our orthotopic PDX model.
Project 6: Using 18F-labeled Enzyme Inhibitors to Image Bacterial Infections. Explore Project 6
with Dr. Paul Berti (McMaster) and Dr. Dr. Svetlana Selivanova (CNL)
Please refer to the minimum eligibility criteria.
Faculty of Science
Project 6: Using 18F-labeled Enzyme Inhibitors to Image Bacterial Infections.
Project 7: Modelling of Thermal Conductivity in MOX Nuclear Fuel Explore Project 7
with Dr. Nana Ofori-Opoku (McMaster) and Dr. Thaneshwor Kaloni (CNL)
Student requirements:
Project 7: Modelling of Thermal Conductivity in MOX Nuclear Fuel
Project 8: Radiogenic backgrounds in a liquid neon neutrino detector Explore Project 8
with Dr. Adriaan Buijs (McMaster) and Dr. Andrew Erlandson (CNL)
Please refer to the minimum eligibility criteria.
Faculty of Engineering
Project 8: Radiogenic backgrounds in a liquid neon neutrino detector
Project 9: Evaluation of Candidate Material Performance in Advanced Nuclear Reactor Conditions Explore Project 9
with Dr. Bipasha Bose (McMaster), Dr. Stephen Veldhuis (McMaster), Dr. Vineet Bhakhri (CNL), and Dr. Hygreeva Namburi (CNL)
Please refer to the minimum eligibility criteria.
Faculty of Engineering
Project 9: Evaluation of Candidate Material Performance in Advanced Nuclear Reactor Conditions
Project 10: Non-destructive investigation of nuclear materials for early stage radiation damage and corrosion effects Explore Project 10
with Dr. Peter Mascher (McMaster), Dr. Andy Knights (McMaster), and Dr. Oksana Shiman (CNL)
Student requirement: Previous lab experience or lab coursework in physics, chemistry, or engineering in areas such as condensed matter/solid state physics, statistical mechanics, or computational physics would be an asset for this project, but is not a strict requirement. Successful applicants will be required to complete health physics training and security screening in order to carry out work in the McMaster Nuclear Reactor, High Level Laboratory Facility, Tandem Accelerator Building.
Faculty of Engineering
Project 10: Non-destructive investigation of nuclear materials for early stage radiation damage and corrosion effects
Project 11: In Situ X-ray Computed Tomography Imaging and Numerical Modeling of Candidate Materials Weld-Joints for Advanced Reactors to Study the Failure Behaviors Under Tensile Loading Explore Project 11
with Dr. Andre Phillion (McMaster) and Dr. Madalena Spencer (CNL),
Dr. Reeghan Osmond (CNL), and Dr. Hygreeva Namburi (CNL)
Please refer to the minimum eligibility criteria.
Faculty of Engineering
Project 11: In Situ X-ray Computed Tomography Imaging and Numerical Modeling of Candidate Materials Weld-Joints for Advanced Reactors to Study the Failure Behaviors Under Tensile Loading
The primary goal of this project is to investigate the tensile performance of weld joints used in advanced reactor applications, with a focus on understanding the mechanisms of crack initiation, propagation, and eventual failure under tensile loading conditions and estimate the mechanical properties. The project aims to enhance the understanding of weld integrity by combining X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) imaging to capture internal microstructural features and welding defects with advanced numerical modeling to simulate stress distributions and crack behavior.
Project 12: Irradiation and Characterization of Surrogate TRISO Fuel Particles Explore Project 12
with Dr. Markus Piro (McMaster), Dr. Michael Gharghouri (CNL), and Dr. Hygreeva Namburi (CNL)
Please refer to the minimum eligibility criteria.
Faculty of Engineering
Project 12: Irradiation and Characterization of Surrogate TRISO Fuel Particles
Surrogate TRISO fuel particles will be irradiated for a brief period in the McMaster Nuclear Reactor, in collaboration with Nuclear Operations and Facilities (NOF). After irradiation, the particles will be extracted and processed at the Centre for Advanced Nuclear Systems (CANS). Subsequently, samples will be characterized at the Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy (CCEM) using advanced microstructural characterization techniques. The Scanning Electron Microscopy – Focused Ion Beam (SEM-FIB) facility at CANS. The primary objective of this project is to serve as a learning experience that will pave the way for future irradiation of actual TRISO fuel. Insights gained during in-core irradiations and collaboration with CANS and CCEM will be invaluable. Radiation safety considerations will be overseen by the McMaster Health Physics department, and any irradiation test plan will require review and approval by NOF.
Past Projects
Project 1: Investigating the properties of materials under extreme conditions with neutron beams Explore Project 1
with Dr. Pat Clancy (McMaster), Dr. Oksana Shiman (CNL), and Dr. Qingshan Dongand (CNL)
Student requirements: Previous lab experience or lab coursework in physics, chemistry, or engineering would be an asset for this project, but is not a strict requirement. Successful applicants will be required to complete health physics training and security screening in order to carry out work in the McMaster Nuclear Reactor.
Project 1: Investigating the properties of materials under extreme conditions with neutron beams
Neutron beams provide an ideal tool for studying the structural and magnetic properties of novel materials. In particular, neutron diffraction (or elastic neutron scattering) can be used to reveal detailed information about atomic and crystalline structure. This is essential for understanding the relationship between the structure and function of advanced materials, or in the case of many nuclear applications, investigating how these relationships change under extreme conditions of temperature, pressure, and irradiation.
The McMaster Nuclear Reactor (MNR) is the only facility in Canada which provides access to neutron beams for materials research. The MNR is currently home to two instruments for neutron diffraction: the McMaster Alignment Diffractometer (MAD) and the McMaster Small Angle Neutron Scattering facility (MacSANS). These two instruments are highly complementary, with MAD intended for the study of simple atomic structures and crystalline solids, and MacSANS optimized for more complex structures and nanoscale materials. The goal of this project is to test and develop new experimental capabilities for neutron diffraction at high temperatures and/or high pressures at the McMaster Nuclear Reactor, and for characterizing the properties of irradiated (and potentially radioactive) materials using neutron beams. This project is well-aligned with CNL’s research interests in studying the effects of extreme conditions on in-reactor materials and components for CANDU and other advanced reactors.
Project 2: Exploring the properties of quantum materials with neutron beams Explore Project 2
with Dr. Pat Clancy (McMaster), and Dr. Zahra Yamani (CNL)
Student requirements: Previous lab experience or lab coursework in physics, chemistry, or engineering would be an asset for this project, but is not a strict requirement. Successful applicants will be required to complete health physics training and security screening in order to carry out work in the McMaster Nuclear Reactor.
Project 2: Exploring the properties of quantum materials with neutron beams
Quantum materials are a family of compounds which display unique or unusual physical properties due to the effects of quantum mechanics. This includes materials such as high temperature superconductors (which display perfect diamagnetism and no electrical resistance) and quantum spin liquids (which display exotic quantum statistics and remain magnetically disordered down to the lowest measurable temperatures).
Neutron beams are an essential tool for investigating the properties of novel quantum materials, and for identifying the presence (or absence) of exotic quantum states. In particular, neutrons offer unparalleled sensitivity to magnetism, which can be used to reveal the characteristic signatures of magnetic order and magnetic phase transitions. The McMaster Nuclear Reactor (MNR) is currently the only facility in Canada which provides access to neutron beams for materials research. The MNR is home to two instruments for neutron diffraction: the McMaster Alignment Diffractometer (MAD) and the McMaster Small Angle Neutron Scattering facility (MacSANS). The MAD instrument is particularly well-suited to the study of quantum materials, with capabilities for carrying out neutron diffraction measurements as a function of temperature (from T = 6 K up to T = 800 K), pressure (up to P = 2 GPa), doping, and irradiation. The goal of this project will be to explore the structural and magnetic phase diagrams of new superconductors and quantum spin liquid candidates, and to investigate how the quantum states in these materials can be tuned under a broad range of sample conditions.
This project is well-aligned with CNL’s research interests in emerging quantum technologies and novel materials. In particular, the study of quantum materials is essential for developing new technologies that can address the nation’s quantum needs (in nuclear, defence, and space industries). This includes applications such as quantum sensors, quantum communications, and quantum computing.
Project 3: Next generation” 18F-rhodamines as potential myocardial perfusion PET imaging agents Explore Project 3
with Dr. James Inkster (McMaster), and Dr. Svetlana Selivanova (CNL)
Student requirements: As significant portion of the project will require knowledge and hands-on experience with small molecule organic synthesis, the student should have achieved high marks in their 2nd year organic chemistry classes. The student will receive health and safety training as required by McMaster Chemistry & Chemical Biology before working in the Inkster synthetic laboratory. They will also receive radiation safety training provided by McMaster Nuclear Operations and Facilities and Health Physics, followed by specialized training in radiopharmaceutical synthesis and formulation (provided by the Inkster lab). The student must be comfortable working (safely) with hazardous chemicals, ionizing radiation, and rodents.
Project 3: Next generation” 18F-rhodamines as potential myocardial perfusion PET imaging agents
The goal of this CNL summer research program research assignment is to synthesize and assay a derivative of 18F-labelled PET (positron emission tomography) radiopharmaceutical [18F]FRho6G-DEG. Rhodamines are a class of positively-charged fluorescent dyes which exhibit affinity for mitochondria-rich cardiomyocytes, and as such [18F]FRho6G-DEG is being investigated as a potential myocardial perfusion imaging agent. The successful student collaborator will be expected to synthesize an analogue of [18F]FRho6G-DEG that can be labelled via nucleophilic aromatic 18F-fluorination (vs nucleophilic aliphatic substitution), along with its 19F standard. They will then optimize the radiosynthesis this novel cardiac imaging agent and asses it for various radiochemical parameters important to PET imaging (e.g. lipophilicity, molar activity).
The final phases of this project will involve assessment of a) uptake of the radiotracer into heart cells in vitro; b) ex vivo biodistribution in healthy rats and c) small animal PET imaging in healthy rats.
Project 4: Quantifying the environmental impacts for an SMR at Chalk River site Explore Project 4
with Dr. Carmel Mothersill (McMaster), and Dr. Marilyn Stuart (CNL)
Project 4: Quantifying the environmental impacts for an SMR at Chalk River site
To contribute to Canada’s efforts to deal with the climate emergency and ensure energy security, expansion of small nuclear power plants is being considered. The siting of small modular reactors (SMR) where they are needed in remote communities is very attractive as we all want reliable electricity. While there are obvious benefits, there may be major impacts in pristine environments due to infrastructure associated with mining, milling, enrichment, transport and eventual disposal of uranium used for fuel. Our proposal seeks to quantify the environmental impacts in 3 ways. 1. Using the Chalk River site where an SMR is planned, our student will determine baseline biodiversity indices and establish baseline biomarker status for bio-indicators of ecosystem health so that future monitoring can track any adverse impacts of SMRs, i.e. we will determine the current ecosystem health status so changes can be detected.
Project 5: PET imaging of Alpha Fetoprotein in COLO-205 cancer model Explore Project 5
with Dr. Sam Sadeghi (McMaster), Dr. Svetlana Selivanova, and Dr. Candice Didychuk (CNL)
Project 5: PET imaging of Alpha Fetoprotein in COLO-205 cancer model
Recent studies shown that Alpha-fetoprotein receptor is expressed on most cancers and myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) but generally absent on normal tissues. Non-glycosylated recombinant form of human alpha fetoprotein (AFP), the natural ligand for the AFP receptor, has been successfully conjugated with p-isothiocyanatobenzyldesferrioxamine (SCN-DFO). [125I]-AFP was previously prepared by direct radioiodination of AFP and used for biodistribution studies in healthy and COLO-205 tumor bearing mice. [125I]-AFP biodistribution studies after thyroid blocking with 1%KI demonstrated the highest tumour to blood ratio of 2.75 at 168 h post injection (p.i.) and cleared from most organs including liver and kidney by 48 h p.i. Further studies are required to use [125I]-AFP for in vitro competitive binding studies to determine binding affinity of DFO-AFP to AFP receptors. Further studies are required for DFO conjugation of AFP and its characterization by ESI-MS and MALDI-MS to avoid a decrease of AFP affinity to its receptor. AFP conjugate having well characterized DFO/molecule will be radiolabeled with zirconium-89 (Zr-89) for in vitro and in vivo studies. Preliminary studies with [89Zr]-DFO-AFP in non-tumor bearing mice have shown that at 96 hours p.i., [89Zr]-DFO-AFP cleared most tissues with the highest uptake (5-11 %ID/g) in liver, gallbladder and spleen. Tumor uptake and in vivo specificity of the trace are required to study biodistribution, specific binding as well as to perform imaging studies in AFP receptors expressing COLO-205 tumor xenograft.
Project 6: Safety consideration for small modular reactors using TRISO fuel. Explore Project 6
with Dr. Adriaan Buijs (McMaster) and Dr. Alex Trottier (CNL)
Additional Information: You will be given extensive reading material in preparation. You will be attending the weekly meetings of the group and present any progress/issues you had in your work and learn about what others are doing. You will be asked (by the faculty) to prepare a poster on your work for presentation to other summer students. Your work may also lead to something that can be presented at a student conference of the Canadian Nuclear Society.
Project 6: Safety consideration for small modular reactors using TRISO fuel.
TRISO particles are small (1 mm diameter) spheres that contain the uranium and are randomly packed to form a fuel pin. You know from your courses how to calculate heat flow in spherical geometries with fixed boundary conditions. (If you don’t, that’s ok, too) Here we have a collection of spheres, and the boundary conditions are not really fixed. You will be given a code (either written in C or a commercial code) that performs a very approximate calculation of the problem with brute force. You may be doing coding to make this program work, and then running several cases. Alternatively, you may use a commercial or open-source code such as OpenFOAM to solve this problem. You will learn about heat flow (and its effect on nuclear reactors). You will be working with a graduate student who has experience in this field and who is responsible for the neutronic side of the calculation. This work is also done in collaboration with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories.
Project 7: Neutronic simulation of tritium production and charged particle tracking in Stellarators Explore Project 7
with Dr. Adriaan Buijs (McMaster) and Dr. Blair Bromley (CNL)
Additional Information: You will be given extensive reading material in preparation. You will be attending the weekly meetings of the group and present any progress/issues you had in your work and learn about what others are doing. You will be asked (by the faculty) to prepare a poster on your work for presentation to other summer students. Your work may also lead to something that can be presented at a student conference of the Canadian Nuclear Society.
Project 7: Neutronic simulation of tritium production and charged particle tracking in Stellarators
Early successful nuclear fusion reactor designs will likely be based on D-T (deuterium-tritium) fusion, because the plasma temperatures for this reaction are lower than for other reactions. While deuterium is an abundant isotope, tritium does not occur naturally and has a half-life of about 12 years. The current plan is that the fusion reactor itself will breed the tritium in a lithium blanket surrounding the fusion plasma, using the neutrons created in the fusion process. The summer research proposed here is to perform initial simulations of this process in the environment of a Stellarator, which is one of the promising designs for fusion reactors. This would involve creating a model of a Stellarator design, e.g. the Wendelstein 7-X in a state-of-the-art simulation code such as GEANT4 and/or OpenMC. The OpenMC code is widely used in nuclear fission research, while GEANT4 originated from particle physics, but has wide applications in other areas, e.g. medical imaging, as well.
Project 8: Developing a Low Temperature Molten Salt Exposure Methodology for Corrosion Study Explore Project 8
with Dr. Joey Kish (McMaster), Dr. Naid Khumsa-Ang (CNL), Dr. Harry Ha (CNL), Dr. Raul Florez Meza (CNL), and/or Dr. Lori Walters (CNL)
Student requirements: Previous lab experience or lab coursework in physics, chemistry, or engineering in areas such as condensed matter/solid state physics, statistical mechanics, or computational physics would be an asset for this project, but is not a strict requirement. Successful applicants will be required to complete health physics training and security screening in order to carry out work in the McMaster Nuclear Reactor, High Level Laboratory Facility, Tandem Accelerator Building.
Project 8: Developing a Low Temperature Molten Salt Exposure Methodology for Corrosion Study
The objective is to develop a bench-top low temperature molten salt exposure methodology to study dealloying corrosion susceptibility of structural Cr-containing alloys as it pertains to molten salt reactors. The idea is to assembly a bench top molten salt pot consisting of a small volume ceramic-lined alloy autoclave (Parker Autoclave Engineers) and suitable crucible furnace capable of heating and containing a low temperature. molten chloroaluminate electrolyte (NaCl–KCl–AlCl3); composition of 26:13:61, mol/mol, with KCl specifically added to reduce the vapour pressure. This mixture has the advantage, due to polymerization of chloroaluminates, to force the melting point of the mixture to drop below the boiling point of water, and thus improve the capability of making low temperature electrochemical measurements. As Al metal is thermodynamically stable in the alkali-chloroaluminate melt, it will be used as a pseudo reference electrode and the counter electrode to permit electrochemical potentiodynamic polarization measurements to be made on metal wires of the major alloying elements of the candidate structural alloys namely Fe, Cr and Ni. Development of such a capability is requisite in proving a physical description of dealloying corrosion as it occurs in molten salt electrolytes. The CNL intern will be mentored by Zayaan Kahn (MASc student) and Dr. Jiji Joseph (Research Associate), in addition to myself, in developing and applying the proposed methodology. will be mentored. The student can then work with CNL staff during the internship on-site to perform molten salt exposure of candidate alloys in the molten chloroaluminate electrolyte using research instruments and tools available.
Project 9: Non-destructive investigation of nuclear materials for early stage radiation damage and corrosion effects Explore Project 9
with Dr. Andy Knights (McMaster), Dr. Peter Mascher (McMaster), and Dr. Oksana Shiman (CNL)
Project 9: Non-destructive investigation of nuclear materials for early stage radiation damage and corrosion effects
Students will investigate a variety of nuclear materials, in both the as-synthesized and radiation-damaged state. Irradiations will be performed using the McMaster Nuclear Reactor and the McMaster accelerator laboratory. Samples will be characterized primarily via Doppler-broadened Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy to measure the formation and clustering of atomic scale vacancies and vacancy clusters within the first micron of the material surface, and Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy to measure the formation of larger scale void spaces and blistering in the bulk of the material. Additional characterization could include electron microscopy and/or x-ray diffraction.
This work will occur on McMaster campus in the Tandem Accelerator Building, the Nuclear Research Building and the McMaster Nuclear Reactor. Specific tasks could include: sample handling and preparation, operating laboratory apparatus, computational data analysis, writing laboratory control software, literature review, correspondence and collaboration with other research groups, installing high-vacuum components, electronic assembly, heavy manual labour, work with power tools, close and/or delicate work.
Project 10: Non-Destructive 3D Imaging using X-ray Computed Tomography of Surrogate TRISO Particles under Mechanical Load under Room and Elevated Temperature Environments Explore Project 10
with Dr. Andre Phillion (McMaster), Dr. Madelena Spencer (CNL), and Dr. Reeghan Osmond (CNL)
Project 10: Non-Destructive 3D Imaging using X-ray Computed Tomography of Surrogate TRISO Particles under Mechanical Load under Room and Elevated Temperature Environments
TRistructural-ISOtropic (TRISO) fuel is the key advancing technology for advanced Small Modular Reactors and the Generation-IV Very High Temperature Reactors. A typical TRISO particle comprises four concentric spherical layers encasing a fuel kernel (UO2 or UCO), which includes the buffer (porous carbon), Inner Pyrolytic Carbon (IPyC), Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Outer Pyrolytic Carbon (OPyC), all of which contribute to TRISO’s physical integrity and resistance to high temperatures. The SiC layer plays the role of a pressure boundary that can withstand the build-up of internal pressure during the fission reaction and as a barrier for diffusion of gaseous and metallic fission products. Performing mechanical strength studies of the SiC layer at elevated temperatures (~1000°C) would further the understanding of the fracture properties of SiC.
X-ray computed tomography (XCT) is an emerging non-destructive characterization technique that can be used to examine the 3D microstructure of materials. By using XCT, laborious, invasive, and challenging sample preparation steps are bypassed and instead a 3D image of the internal structure of a sample is obtained. With respect to TRISO fuel and nuclear materials in general, pairing XCT with in-situ elevated temperature and mechanical testing capabilities can reveal a deeper mechanistic understanding of the degradation and failure than what is currently available.
The proposed summer student project between McMaster University, Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy (CCEM) and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) aims to have the student complete the following tasks:
- perform a literature review on the application of XCT for the examination of TRISO fuel,
- optimize image acquisition and scanning parameters on CNL-supplied surrogate TRISO particles in as-fabricated state,
- learn post-processing techniques and methodologies for XCT data,
- assist in the design, development, validation and testing of elevated temperature testing stage for high-temperature mechanical testing using CCEM XCT,
- develop a test plan for high-temperature mechanical testing of surrogate TRISO particles at CCEM, and
- observe room temperature mechanical XCT testing of surrogate TRISO particles at CNL.
Project 11: Development of Sample Preparation Methodology and Examination Protocol for Future Analysis of Neutron Irradiation TRISO Particles using Atom Probe Tomography Explore Project 11
with Dr. Markus Piro (McMaster), Dr. Hygreeva Namburi (CNL), and Dr. Madalena Spencer (CNL)
Project 11: Development of Sample Preparation Methodology and Examination Protocol for Future Analysis of Neutron Irradiation TRISO Particles using Atom Probe Tomography
TRistructural-ISOtropic (TRISO) fuel is the key advancing technology for advanced Small Modular Reactors and the Generation-IV Very High Temperature Reactor variant. A typical TRISO particle comprises four concentric spherical layers encasing a fuel kernel (UO2 or UCO), which includes the buffer (porous carbon), Inner Pyrolytic Carbon (IPyC), Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Outer Pyrolytic Carbon (OPyC), all of which contribute to TRISO’s physical integrity and resistance to high temperatures. The SiC layer plays the role of a pressure vessel that can withstand the build-up of internal pressure during the fission reaction and as a barrier for diffusion of gaseous and metallic fission products (FP).
Importantly, an understanding of the thermal-mechanical performance of the SiC layer in TRISO fuel in neutron irradiated states at high operating temperatures requires a further understanding of radiation induced microstructural changes and on the FP transport mechanisms. Nano-scale characterisation techniques, such as Atom Probe Tomography (APT) and High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), would improve the understanding of the transport mechanisms of FPs in neutron irradiated TRISO particles. In preparation of receiving neutron irradiated fueled TRISO particles at CNL, sample preparation and experimental methodology development is required for APT examination. It is therefore proposed to use surrogate as-fabricated and proton irradiated TRISO particles to establish this analytical capability during a McMaster/CNL summer student project.
The goals of this effort includes:
- performing a literature review on microstructure evolution of TRISO particle layers due to irradiation damage and relevant microscopy techniques (FIB/APT/TEM),
- developing a sample preparation procedure and fabricating the APT specimens from SiC layer and interfaces by using FIB technique (CCEM),
- performing APT characterisation on CNL supplied surrogate TRISO particles (as-fabricated and proton irradiated),
- investigating using TEM with STEM/EDS techniques to ensure the prepared LEAP tips contain features of interest (to be performed at McMaster or CNL),
- obtaining accurate 3D compositional information from the grain boundaries or/and grain interiors,
- gaining insights into 3D spatial distribution of any irradiation induced products in the SiC layer of proton irradiated surrogate TRISO particles by using APT at McMaster University, and
- observing the microscopy investigation sessions of samples at CNL.
Project 12: Evaluation of SiC under elevated temperature conditions Explore Project 12
with Dr. Stephen Veldhuis (McMaster), Dr. Bipasha Bose (McMaster), Dr. Vineet Bhakhri (CNL), Dr. Sterling St. Lawrence (CNL), and Dr. Hygreeva Namburi (CNL)
Project 12: Evaluation of SiC under elevated temperature conditions
The challenging conditions prevalent in reactor environments, characterized by factors such as neutron irradiation and elevated temperatures, instigate noteworthy modifications in material properties. These alterations impose limitations on the operational efficiency and safety thresholds of diverse reactor types. Furthermore, there exists a significant dearth of data concerning the performance of various nuclear materials in these extreme environments. This scarcity of information is crucial for the scientific community, especially in the design and development of small modular reactors and other advanced reactor types. This project aims to conduct a materials assessment of SiC at moderately elevated temperatures. The primary focus will be on developing testing techniques for elevated temperatures and determining the elastic-plastic properties (hardness, elastic modulus) of the selected material.