Internship project: Optimisation using Genetic Algorithm and ML for disposal of nuclear waste

Share **Your tasks** -------------- Nagra is offering a Master’s thesis or an internship position to investigate the optimisation of the disposal of spent nuclear fuel. The current disposal strategy for spent nuclear fuel includes the encapsulation of multiple spent fuel assemblies in steel canisters. A requirement of this strategy is the minimisation of the number of canisters employed. This results in a complex optimisation problem, given the high number of spent fuel assemblies, their diverse radiological properties and the logistics of the packaging process. To tackle this, Nagra has developed the SIMAN software, a logistics optimisation tool that produces a detailed loading plan based on an input data set and several user-defined constraints. Your tasks would be: * To familiarise yourself with the SIMAN software * To develop a new version of the SIMAN code using two genetic algorithms * To investigate proxy models using machine learning algorithms such as neural networks * To improve the robustness and performance of the optimisation code * To perform sensitivity studies on the effect of boundary conditions on the loading plan **Your profile** ---------------- * Ability to solve problems independently using a structured approach and critical thinking skills * Motivation and willingness to learn * Good knowledge of a programming language (Python or C) * Good scientific writing skills in English * Experience with Git, optimisation algorithms and machine learning is considered a plus **We offer** ------------ Our ongoing projects at the interface between industry and fundamental research offer the unique opportunity to explore the most fascinating aspects of these two worlds. You will be working along experts on key scientific, technical and implementation topics related to the deep geological disposal of radioactive waste, under realistic conditions. You will also have the opportunity to train and/or gain additional experience with Python, with optimisation problems and with the challenges of spent fuel disposal. **Your application should include:** ------------------------------------ * Your CV * A record of all available exam grades from the BSc. and/or MSc. programme (e.g. first semester grades) * A cover letter not exceeding 300 words If you would like to work with us on the disposal of radioactive waste, please send your complete application documents by e-mail to bewerbungen@nagra.ch