PhD Scholarship in Process Systems Modelling and Digital Twins
Develop modular digital twins of winery operations for low-carbon energy and water efficiency.
Best for:Best for graduate engineers with a background in chemical, mechanical, or thermal process engineering and an interest in sustainability and digital twins.
Overview
This PhD project at the University of Canterbury develops a modular digital twin of winery operations to drive lower-carbon, resource-efficient energy and water use. Combining first-principles process models with operational plant data, the research investigates key systems like fermentation, refrigeration, hot-water systems, and cleaning operations. Undertaken in close collaboration with industrial partner Indevin, the project addresses real-world operational challenges in dynamic simulation and resource optimisation. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive financial support while contributing to cutting-edge sustainable process engineering.
What you'll do
- Develop modular digital twin frameworks representing key winery operations such as fermentation, refrigeration, and hot-water systems
- Combine first-principles process models with operational plant data to enhance model accuracy
- Investigate the impact of model fidelity, data integration, and validation on operational decision-making reliability
- Conduct research in process and utility modelling, dynamic simulation, and energy and water optimisation
- Collaborate directly with industrial partner Indevin to address real operational challenges and integrate industrial context
- Explore thermal storage, renewable integration, scheduling, and model transferability across diverse winery sites and vintages
Requirements
Degree required: Master Degree or equivalent
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; good proficiency level
Instruction: English
- Strong academic background in chemical engineering, process engineering, mechanical engineering, thermal engineering, energy systems, food engineering, environmental engineering, or a closely related discipline
- Foundational knowledge in process modelling and simulation principles
- Must meet the University of Canterbury's doctoral admission requirements
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-27 (Pacific/Auckland)
Applicants must review the doctoral admission requirements at the University of Canterbury and submit their application through the designated external portal link provided. Ensure all required academic and personal documents are prepared before the deadline.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Cover letter
Contact
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