PhD Studentship - Modelling and Experiments of Aquifer-Based Compressed Air Energy Storage Systems

The University of Manchester - Chemical Engineering

Qualification Type:PhDLocation:ManchesterFunding for:Self-funded StudentsFunding amount:Not SpecifiedHours:Full TimePlaced On:13th April 2026Closes:13th July 2026

Application deadline: All year round

How to apply: uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

This 3.5 year PhD opportunity is primarily aimed at self-funded students. Exceptionally strong candidates with a proven track record of peer-reviewed publications may be considered for nomination to competitive scholarship schemes at the University of Manchester.

This PhD project focuses on the development of advanced multiphysics models to investigate aquifer-based compressed air energy storage (CAES) systems. The research will involve coupling fluid flow, heat transfer, geomechanics, and potentially reactive transport processes to better understand system performance, efficiency, and long-term operational stability. Particular emphasis will be placed on thermo-mechanical effects, cyclic loading, and air–water interactions in porous geological formations. The successful candidate will develop and implement computational models, validate them against experimental or field data where available, and contribute to the design and optimisation of subsurface energy storage technologies supporting Net Zero goals.

This opportunity is primarily aimed at self-funded students. Exceptionally strong candidates with a proven track record of peer-reviewed publications may be considered for nomination to competitive scholarship schemes at the University of Manchester.

Eligibility

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

A First-Class (or equivalent international) degree at MSc or BSc level from a leading university in engineering
A strong background in engineering, with a clear understanding of flow and transport processes in porous media.
Proficiency in scientific programming (Python, C++, or Fortran) is essential.
Demonstrated strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with familiarity in numerical methods and an interest in multiphysics modelling.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, alongside a high level of motivation.
Experience in porous media, reservoir simulation, thermodynamics, or computational fluid dynamics is desirable.

For informal enquiries please contact, Prof Vahid Niasar - vahid.niasar@manchester.ac.uk. We strongly recommend that you carefully review the eligibility criteria and ensure that you meet all the required requirements before submitting your application.

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