"PhD Studentship: Turning Up the Heat: Modelling and Scale-Up of Thermochemical Energy Storage"

University of Warwick - Centre for Doctoral Training in the Modelling of Heterogeneous Materials (HetSys), School of Engineering

Placed On: 9th February 2026
Closes: 28th August 2026
Reference: HP-2026-022

About the project:

Turning Up the Heat: Modelling and Scale-Up of Thermochemical Energy Storage

Supervisor: Dr Ferran Brosa Planella, University of Warwick

Heating accounts for nearly half of global energy use and 40% of energy-related CO2 emissions, making it a key target for decarbonisation.

A promising option to store energy and support a low-carbon grid is thermochemical energy storage (TCES), where heat is stored/released through reversible chemical reactions.

This project focuses on NaOH water TCES systems, which use cheap, abundant materials [1]. We will develop modelling tools that combine physics-based and data-driven methods to support the design and scale-up of these systems.

This approach will reduce the need for costly experiments, improve scale-up predictions, and provide confidence intervals to support better design decisions.

About HetSys: Harnessing Data, Modelling and Simulation for Real‑World Impact

HetSys (Centre for Doctoral Training in Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems) at the University of Warwick is an innovative, interdisciplinary fully funded PhD programme that brings together science, engineering, and mathematics to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

• Big Questions, Real Impact – From climate modelling and sustainable energy to advanced materials and biomedical systems, HetSys projects apply cutting‑edge computational and mathematical techniques to problems with global significance.
• Interdisciplinary Training – Students gain expertise across physics, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics, developing versatile skills that open doors to both academia and industry.
• Collaborative Environment – Work alongside leading researchers and industry partners in a supportive, vibrant community that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
• Future‑Focused Careers – HetSys graduates are equipped with highly sought‑after skills in modelling, simulation, and data science, preparing them for impactful careers in research, technology, and beyond.

If you’re excited by the idea of using advanced modelling and simulation to solve complex, real‑world problems, HetSys offers the perfect environment to push boundaries and make a difference.