The University of Liverpool has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mirion Technologies to expand collaboration in nuclear science, radiation protection and related strategic technologies.
Mirion is a global company focused on radiation safety, science and medicine, supporting the safe use of ionising radiation across nuclear energy, industrial and medical sectors. It operates internationally, including UK sites in Farnborough, Harwell, Warrington and Seascale. The University undertakes world-leading research and knowledge exchange in nuclear physics, radiation protection and related areas, including risk, resilience, infrastructure safety and the transport of radioactive materials. These strengths closely align with Mirion's mission to "use [their] unrivaled knowledge of ionizing radiation for the greater good of humanity".
The MoU is the first between Mirion Technologies and a UK university. It builds on an established relationship, with both organisations already collaborating on a number of technology programmes, most notably in nuclear physics. Mirion has worked with the University for many years on joint PhDs and instrumentation development, and is also a partner in RAPTOR, the University-led Doctoral Focal Award in Radiation Protection, Nuclear Safety and Environmental Sustainability aimed at addressing key skills gaps for the UK nuclear industry.
The programme is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) with matched industry support and is helping to embed sustainability and innovation into the UK's energy infrastructure while supporting economic growth. As part of its involvement in RAPTOR, Mirion is supporting three doctoral studentships alongside providing in-kind support.
The agreement will deepen this activity by strengthening education in radiation detection and measurement at multiple levels including undergraduate, post-graduate and across UK industry. Expanding collaboration across wider strategic innovation priorities, it will enable both partners to draw on complementary expertise and facilities and jointly pursue funding opportunities for large-scale collaborative projects, centres and programmes, as well as smaller-scale technical initiatives. It also reflects a shared ambition to strengthen engagement across research disciplines, aligned with emerging national priorities, including the UK Government's Industrial Strategy.
The MoU was formally recognised during a workshop held at the University's Materials Innovation Factory (MIF), where representatives from both organisations reviewed ongoing projects and explored future opportunities aligned with shared strategic goals.
James Cocks, Chief Technology Officer at Mirion, said: "There is no path to advancing nuclear capability without strong collaboration. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to delivering innovative radiation safety solutions while strengthening the UK's nuclear skills base. It builds on years of successful partnership between our teams, and we look forward to seeing what we can achieve together in supporting the nuclear industry, advancing research, and creating real benefits for society."
Professor Laura Harkness, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Head of the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Liverpool, said: "As we enter this new phase of our partnership, we are excited by the opportunities ahead. The combination of the University's research excellence in nuclear science and Mirion's global industrial expertise provides a strong platform to address major challenges in energy, safety and resilience."
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The partnership is supported by the University's Research Partnerships Team.
