About the Project
The transition to a low-carbon energy system requires new solutions that can simultaneously address climate change and energy security. Geothermal energy offers a significant opportunity as a reliable, low-carbon source of heat that can complement intermittent renewable energy technologies. However, conventional open-loop geothermal systems can involve significant geological uncertainty and risks associated with fluid circulation, including induced seismicity, fluid losses and uncertainty in…
reservoir performance. Advanced Geothermal Systems (AGS), which circulate fluid through closed-loop systems deep within the subsurface, offer a promising approach to mitigating these risks. However, AGS remain relatively untested at real-world scale, and significant questions remain regarding their heat-transfer performance, optimal design and integration with energy demand.
This project will investigate heat transfer in AGS and their integration into wider energy systems. The research will develop numerical models to simulate subsurface heat transfer across low- to high-temperature geothermal settings, incorporating geological characterisation and operational conditions. The project will explore new AGS configurations that can be optimised for different geological environments and investigate how these systems can be operated flexibly to match variable heating and cooling demand. University campuses, with their significant and diverse thermal demands, will provide real-world case studies through which the potential of AGS to provide reliable and flexible low-carbon energy can be assessed.
The project will deliver new understanding of heat transfer in closed-loop geothermal systems and establish how AGS design and operation can be optimised according to geological conditions and energy demand. The research will contribute new numerical modelling approaches and potentially novel AGS configurations, while providing practical evidence for their deployment in real-world settings. Ultimately, the project aims to help establish whether AGS can provide a scalable, low-risk and flexible source of low-carbon heat, supporting both decarbonisation and energy security.
The student will receive training in state-of-the-art numerical modelling and simulation software, alongside developing their own mathematical and computational models to address research questions that cannot be captured by existing tools. The project will involve close collaboration with researchers and colleagues at the University of Manchester and Keele University, providing access to expertise across geothermal engineering, geology, geophysics, numerical modelling and energy systems. The student will benefit from working within a multidisciplinary research environment and will develop transferable skills in computational modelling, geological characterisation, model development and energy-system integration.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply: To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Engineering Scholarships. If you don’t already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing the motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in Engineering, Geology or related subject (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in Engineering, Geology or related subject (or international equivalent).
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
Funding Notes
Funding for this project covers tuition fees, UKRI minimum annual stipend (currently £21,805/annum) and up to a £2.5k/annum research training support grant for the full duration of the 3.5-year programme.