Prof. Paul Howarth CBE

Non-Executive Director

Paul has extensive experience in the nuclear industry covering operations, commercial and research portfolios in the UK and also overseas. He has worked with a broad range of stakeholders across Government, industry and academia. Key highlights:

PhD in Nuclear Physics on the European Fusion Programme
Worked on Plutonium Finishing Lines at Sellafield
Post-Doctorate Research in Japan on Actinide X-ray Measurements for Advanced Nuclear Fuel Reprocessing
Worked closely with UK Government on case for new nuclear build
Co-founded the Dalton Nuclear Institute at Manchester University
Chief Executive of the UK National Nuclear Laboratory and led transition from GOCO to Gov UK
Elected Fellow of Royal Academy of Engineering in 2014 and Alumnus from Harvard Business School

Latest news

New Non-Executive Director Appointed to Board

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jill Hruby to our Board effective 1 January 2026. Jill brings an extraordinary depth of experience in national security, nuclear deterrence and advanced technology leadership.

Making research matter: AWE joins forces with National Research Organisations

On 10 December 2025, the National Research Organisations (NRO) Group officially launched an alliance of 35 organisations committed to advancing science for the benefit of all. We’re proud to announce that AWE is part of this powerful network.

Nominations open: Celebrating Emerging Talent in Defence Industry Engineering

In partnership with the Worshipful Company of Engineers and the Engineers Trust, AWE is proud to launch the Defence Industry Early Careers Engineering Prize for 2026.