Master's thesis: Nuclear fusion – limitless power or endless disappointment?

Climate targets call for innovative technologies to help decarbonize global energy systems. Nuclear fission reactors have been operated for decades (IAEA, 2025). These reactors generate low-carbon energy, but create reliance on finite materials, generate long-lived radioactive waste, and come with inherent safety risks. Nuclear fusion could provide low-carbon energy with much less radioactive waste, with fewer resource constraints, and without the safety risks associated with fission technologies (Smith and Cowley, 2010). Despite being under development for decades (Meschini et al., 2023), fusion reactors still face significant barriers to becoming commercially viable. Purpose and Aim This thesis project aims to improve the understanding of drivers and barriers to innovation in fusion technology. Since challenges extend beyond technical issues, the project adopts a socio-technical approach based on the technological innovation systems (TIS) framework (Bergek et al., 2008). Findings from the thesis will contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted challenges facing fusion technology and generate recommendations to policymakers and other key stakeholders. Key Activities and Responsibilities The thesis project involves collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. Research questions and scope will be developed together with the students, but the following activities are likely to characterize the project: Identify and map actors developing fusion reactor technologies Characterize distinct branches of fusion technology and their unique traits Collect and analyze funding data supporting fusion innovation from publicly accessible datasets Situate results in broader developments within the nuclear fusion ecosystem based on qualitative analysis of documents Potentially interview expert stakeholders for additional insights on gathered information The thesis project is part of a research collaboration between RISE and Chalmers. It is expected that the students carry-out key activities in collaboration with supervisors from these two organizations. Findings from the thesis will feed into the research collaboration, and highly motivated students may have the opportunity to participate as co-authors of a scientific journal article. Qualifications Candidates are expected to be enrolled in a relevant master's programme at Chalmers. Experience from courses covering sustainability transitions, innovation systems, socio-technical change, and similar topics, is an advantage. Familiarity with nuclear energy, and energy systems more broadly, systems is also considered beneficial. Conditions Location: RISE, Gothenburg (some physical presence is expected) Supervisors: Johnn Andersson (RISE) and Charles Giordano (Chalmers) Examiner: Björn Sandén (Chalmers) Starting date: January 2027 Credits: 30 ECTS Compensation: 30 000 kr per student How to apply Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; apply as soon as possible, but no later than October 31st, 2026. You apply to the thesis project by answering the questions attached to the application form below and by uploading a brief CV. No personal letter is needed. For more information, please contact the supervisor Johnn Andersson at johnn.andersson@ri.se . Welcome with your application! References Bergek, A., Jacobsson, S., Carlsson, B., Lindmark, S., Rickne, A., 2008. Analyzing the functional dynamics of technological innovation systems: A scheme of analysis. Research Policy 37, 407–429. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2007.12.003 Hekkert, M.P., Suurs, R.A.A., Negro, S.O., Kuhlmann, S., Smits, R.E.H.M., 2007. Functions of innovation systems: A new approach for analysing technological change. Technological Forecasting and Social Change 74, 413–432. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2006.03.002 IAEA, 2025. Nuclear Power Reactors in the World. https://doi.org/10.61092/iaea.1g28-w3uk Meschini, S., Laviano, F., Ledda, F., Pettinari, D., Testoni, R., Torsello, D., Panella, B., 2023. Review of commercial nuclear fusion projects. Front. Energy Res. 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fenrg.2023.1157394 Smith, C.L., Cowley, S., 2010. The path to fusion power. Philos Trans A Math Phys Eng Sci 368, 1091–1108. https://doi.org/10.1098/rsta.2009.0216