Innovations in Turbo-Compressor Gas Path and Thermal Design
Develop advanced models for high-pressure ratio turbo-compressors in industrial heat pumps.
Best for:Best for mechanical engineering graduates with a strong interest in thermal and fluid dynamics, computational modeling, and CFD validation.
Overview
This PhD position at Brunel University London focuses on advancing turbo-compressor technology for high-temperature industrial heat pumps. The successful candidate will design and optimize multi-stage compressor arrangements, develop reduced-order models for high Mach number and non-ideal gas behavior, and validate designs using CFD simulations. The project combines mechanical engineering, thermal engineering, and computational fluid dynamics to enhance energy efficiency and performance in heat pump systems. Offer holders will be appointed as research assistants and are expected to complete a PhD by the project’s end.
What you'll do
- Develop models for selecting multi-stage turbo-compressor arrangements for high-pressure ratio industrial heat pumps.
- Design and optimize reduced-order models for multi-stage compressors, accounting for high Mach numbers and non-ideal gas behavior.
- Investigate thermal energy transfers between compressor components to improve efficiency.
- Use CFD models incorporating conjugate heat transfer to validate compressor designs.
- Conduct research leading to a PhD in Mechanical or Thermal Engineering.
- Collaborate with industry partners to ensure practical applicability of research outcomes.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; Good proficiency (equivalent to IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90).
Instruction: English
- Basic understanding of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics principles.
- Familiarity with computational modeling tools (e.g., CFD software).
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers.
- Good proficiency in English for research communication.
- No prior research experience required.
- Open to international applicants.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30 (Europe/London)
Applicants must submit their CV, a cover letter outlining their research interests and suitability for the project, and academic transcripts through the university’s careers portal. A research proposal may also be required. Ensure all documents are in English and meet the specified deadlines.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
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