UK-based Cambridge Atomworks has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Mott MacDonald to accelerate development of the ODIN microreactor.
“The signing of this MoU with a top British engineering consultancy will allow us to accelerate the development of our British-designed ODIN nuclear micro-reactor,” said Cambridge Atomworks CEO Ian Farnan. “Mott MacDonald’s global experience and technical excellence in delivering nuclear projects will be invaluable to us as we plan the deployment of ODIN as an off-grid generator in diverse remote locations.”
Ian Baird, Nuclear General Manager at Mott MacDonald, said: “We are excited to be supporting Cambridge Atomworks in the early development of British microreactor technology. The combination of its innovative reactor IP [intellectual property] with our global engineering expertise, nuclear innovation and technical leadership in the sector will help advance the next generation of low carbon nuclear solutions.”
Cambridge Atomworks purchased the ODIN IP from US-based start-up NANO Nuclear Energy in September 2025 of $6.2m, with a $250,000 upfront non-refundable down payment to NANO Nuclear and a $5.95m payment in 2026 as well as future low single-digit royalties payable to NANO based on net sales if and when ODIN is commercialised.
Cambridge Atomworks was established in 2023 specifically to develop ODIN for NANO Nuclear on an outsourced consulting basis. NANO had announced development of ODIN in March 2023 “to diversify its technology portfolio, as the design requirements can be met through different technological solutions”. Cambridge Atomworks says its vision is to have an operational prototype by 2030 and by the mid-2030s “become a trusted global supplier of clean, sustainable energy to off-grid customers”.
ODIN uses a low-pressure coolant system. This reduces mechanical stress on structural components, potentially extending the reactor’s service life and improving safety. A central feature of the design is the Annular Linear Induction Pump (ALIP), an electromagnetic pump system with no moving parts.
This technology was acquired by NANO in June 2024 from Dr Carlos O Maidana and his company, Maidana Research. Dr Maidana had developed and refined this technology through multiple Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants from the US Department of Energy (DOE) and NASA. The ALIP technology was originally explored for nuclear thermal propulsion and power systems in space.
The ODIN design relies heavily on natural convection for heat transfer. In the event of a shutdown or power loss, the reactor can remove decay heat without human intervention or external power. ODIN is designed to use conventional uranium fuel (sintered pellets) enriched up to 20% (HALEU).
