Dr Alexandra Adrych-Brunning

Dr Alexandra Adrych-Brunning

Senior Consultant -  Radiation Physics, TÜV SÜD Nuclear Technologies

Tell us about yourself

I completed my undergraduate degree in Physics at the University of Nottingham. It was during this course that I became interested in the nuclear industry.

Most of the hubs for nuclear research and job opportunities in the nuclear sector were clustered in the north so I applied for a PhD at the University of Manchester as part of the Next Generation Nuclear Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT). This was where I first started to learn to code and performed atomistic simulations of neutrons and protons with materials found in nuclear reactors. My PhD culminated in two papers published in the Journal of Nuclear Materials.

I joined TÜV SÜD Nuclear Technologies in 2018 as part of the Radiation Physics department after they reached out for potential candidates through the CDT. I now regularly apply my physics knowledge running radiation transport codes to solve problems brought to us by clients in research and decommissioning sectors. I also did a brief stint at Moltex Energy and joined their physics team to develop the reactor core for the Stable Salt Reactor - Uranium (SSR-U).

I'm an ambassador for the Women in Nuclear network and I’m keen to get more women interested and involved in the nuclear industry.

Why did you choose to apply to TÜV SÜD?

The variety of projects I would get involved in, the skills that I would develop, the team and working environment meant that applying to TÜV SÜD was my first choice.

Where do you work?

My main office is Birchwood Park in Warrington but after Covid, I took the opportunity to reduce my carbon emissions by working from home at least half the week.

What are your main areas of expertise?

Radiation physics, which I regularly apply when assessing shielding for facilities that deal with radiation sources. I particularly enjoy applying my coding knowledge when analysing and presenting data to clients.

What does your role involve?

My job is primarily focused on finding solutions to protect people from undue exposure to radiation. I use radiation transport codes to assess the amount of radiation that the public or workers are exposed to in or around facilities that contain radioactive source(s). I design shielding solutions and ensure that the exposure to different persons follows the necessary ionising radiation regulations.

I carry out research, data analysis and create scripts in Python and C++. I also regularly perform quality assurance to ensure confidence in the work we present to our clients.

What most interests you about your role?

The variety of projects involved in my work. In my short time at TÜV SÜD, I have designed shielding for research facilities, cancer treatment centres and nuclear waste storage. There is always some new challenge to set your mind to.

What exciting developments have you seen at TÜV SÜD since you started?

Since starting at TÜV SÜD, the number or projects that have involved assessment of novel techniques and emerging technologies has been increasing. The development opportunities available have been rapidly expanding.

What future trends do you see developing in your area of work?

With climate change a big concern for many countries, there is a large focus on developing advanced modular reactors as low carbon options for energy production. As a company, we have already seen a rise in the number of companies coming to us for expertise in nuclear site licensing and advice on developing their reactor technologies.

What is your biggest challenge?

To anticipate the needs of different clients and present innovative solutions.

What do you see as the top perk of working for TÜV SÜD?

The working environment has been the highlight. The people I work with are incredibly supportive and work well together.

How have TÜV SÜD supported you?

I first joined the company whilst finishing up my PhD thesis. The team were very accommodating and made it so I could work flexible hours to submit on time. They have also continuously supported me in my professional development, for example, with my CPhys application.

Describe your fellow workers in five words

Supportive, engaging, kind, funny and smart.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying for a role similar to yours?

To have confidence in yourself and to submit an application. Getting a role in radiation physics and protection will open exciting projects and opportunities for you to get involved in.

ADDITIONAL INFO

Papers, research, work published in industry publications, patents, etc.

During my PhD, I published in the Journal of Nuclear Materials:

• The interaction of proton irradiation with Zr textured microstructure
• Modelling the interaction of primary irradiation damage and precipitates: Implications for experimental irradiation of zirconium alloys

Have you presented at any industry events?

During my PhD, I presented at Conference on Computer Simulation of Irradiation Effects in Solids internationally and locally.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR NUCLEAR RADIATION AND PROTECTION SERVICES

Visit our nuclear radiation and protection services pages or see our full range of nuclear power services.