Exciting Fully Funded PhD: Computational Modelling for High-Pressure, Low-Carbon Storage Technologies. Be a Key Player in Shaping the Future of Clean Energy Storage!

What’s the Project About?

Mechanical seals are critical components in high-pressure storage solutions for hydrogen and carbon capture technologies. In this project, you will:

• Develop a 3D Digital Model: Create an advanced computational model of high-pressure mechanical seals.
• Apply Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): Simulate gas film flow within the microscopic seal gap.
• Couple CFD with Structural Models: Study the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) and dynamic response of seal rings under real-world conditions.
• Collaborate with the Leonardo Centre for Tribology: Work with top researchers on experimental and modelling techniques.

Why This PhD Stands Out

• Full 4-year Funding for UK applicants: Includes UK-only tuition fees and a stipend at standard EPSRC rates (2024/2025: Bursary/Stipend: £19,795, Fees: £4,925).
• Stipend top-up: An additional industrial top-up to the stipend is available.
• Industrial Engagement: Collaborate closely with John Crane Ltd, gaining practical industry experience at their Research Centre in Manchester and Manufacturing Site in Slough.
• Cutting-Edge Research Environment: Access state-of-the-art facilities and join a vibrant, supportive research community (around 20-25 people involved in fluids modelling research).
• Real-World Impact: Contribute to transformative technologies in clean energy and carbon capture.
• Future job opportunities: Digital modelling and computational fluid dynamics are highly sought after skills used in academic research and industries (including mechanical, aerospace, automotive, energy and biomedical engineering).
• Flexible start date!

What You’ll Need

• A first-class or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Physics, or Applied Mathematics.
• Experience in coding and CFD is advantageous but not mandatory—an eagerness to learn and innovate is key! Full training will be provided.