Developing methods for communicating confidence in computational models

Description

This multidisciplinary project aims to develop a framework for communicating outcomes of validation processes to non-specialist industry professionals and regulators. The student will acquire knowledge of validation processes and investigate the interpretation of their outcomes by incorporating methods from linguistics and social sciences.

Complex systems, such as nuclear reactors, can now be modelled and tested as a whole system in a virtual environment, where engineers can explore an unlimited design space with minimal risks and resource requirements. These systems often contribute to vital public infrastructure, and so efficiency and safety are vital for non-specialised stakeholders and policy makers. This means engineers must establish and communicate their confidence in designs tested in the virtual environment in an accessible way. 

Model predictions of nuclear reactor performance are essential part of the safety cases for the continued operation of current nuclear reactors, such as Advanced Gas-cooled Reactors (AGR), and future nuclear programmes. Confidence in the predictions can be gained through validation processes, which involve comparing models with physical measurements. 

Communicating the outcomes from the validation processes may impact how stakeholders assess risk associated with safe operation of a nuclear reactor. Further, knowledge of how technologies are tested in a virtual environment may affect people’s trust in engineering systems. Thus, in this project the student will address two main questions: how are validation outcomes communicated within the engineering industry, such as nuclear energy? And how does the language used by engineers affect peoples’ perception of risk and uncertainty associated with validation processes and their trust in engineering systems?

Case studies from EDF and other industrial organisations will be sought to explore and demonstrate effective approaches to communication on validation processes and confidence in computational models. The project outcomes are anticipated to feed directly into the design of industry communication and reports. More generally, this project will produce new knowledge and deliver tools to demonstrate confidence in the virtual testing of engineering systems, which will benefit a range of industries employing high fidelity modelling. These advances will lead to more responsible consumption of resources, and production of more sustainable engineering systems, which will produce less CO2 throughout their lifecycle (UN-SDG 12).

The student will work closely with experts at EDF, with opportunities for short visits, and become part of two research groups at the University of Liverpool: one in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department with training opportunities in data analysis and model validation, and second in the Communication and Media department, with the focus on linguistics and public perception of science and technology. They will have an opportunity to participate in regular research group activities, which aim to develop additional transferable skills, e.g. presentations, lab demonstrations and outreach. Further opportunities will be sought for attending conferences to disseminate findings and networking opportunities for the student. 

The studentship will be run as part of the SATURN Centre for Doctoral Training and thus you will get to interact with a large cohort of students who are studying nuclear science and engineering at six leading UK universities. 

Applicant Eligibility

Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a Master’s Degree or equivalent from a reputable University in an appropriate field of Engineering. Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field will also be considered.

Before you apply 

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Dvurecenska: K.Dvurecenska@liverpool.ac.uk

How to apply 

Please complete the enquiry form to express your interest. 

We strongly recommend you contact the project supervisor after completing the form to speak to them about your suitability for the project. You can find their details on the project listing. 

If your qualifications meet our standard entry requirements, the CDT Admissions Team will send your enquiry form and CV to the named project supervisor. 

Our application process can also be found on our website: Apply | EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Skills And Training Underpinning a Renaissance in Nuclear | The University of Manchester. If you have any questions, please contact SATURN@manchester.ac.uk 

We want all of our staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, If you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result.

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