PhD Studentship: Numerical simulation of boiling flows for high heat flux fusion components

Embark on a Groundbreaking PhD Journey in Fusion Energy Thermal Management

This fully-funded 4-year PhD studentship offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers to contribute to the forefront of fusion energy technology. The project focuses on developing advanced computational tools to simulate boiling flows under extreme heat flux conditions, a critical challenge in the design of thermal management systems for fusion components. If you are passionate about cutting-edge engineering and possess a strong foundation in fluid mechanics and heat transfer, this studentship presents a significant stepping stone in your academic and professional career.

Key Advantages for Prospective Candidates:

• Full Funding and Comprehensive Support: This studentship covers UK Home tuition fees and provides a generous annual UKRI stipend (£21,804 for 2026-2027), along with a research support budget for project-related costs. All expenses associated with the intensive initial training program are also covered. This financial security allows you to focus entirely on your research and development.
• Industry-Relevant Research: You will gain invaluable experience in developing a high-fidelity modelling framework for boiling flows, directly applicable to the engineering design of thermal management elements for fusion components. This research is not only academically stimulating but also highly relevant to current industrial challenges.
• Cutting-Edge Methodologies: The project utilizes state-of-the-art techniques, including high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations with open-source software and advanced adaptive mesh refinement. You will also be involved in developing a lightweight prediction tool, incorporating machine learning principles for data analysis.
• Collaborative and Multi-Institutional Environment: While based at the University of Nottingham, you will have annual placements at the UKAEA Fusion Technology Facility in Yorkshire, fostering direct collaboration with industry experts. Furthermore, the initial 3-month full-time training program is delivered across multiple leading universities (Sheffield, Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool), providing exposure to diverse academic perspectives and networking opportunities.
• Specialized Expertise Development: This project offers the chance to develop deep expertise in interface-resolved simulations of boiling, bubble dynamics, heat transfer characterization, and crucially, Critical Heat Flux (CHF) modelling in complex geometries – a vital area for fusion reactor safety and efficiency.
• Career Enhancement: A PhD with this scope, coupled with industry exposure and advanced technical skills, will position you as a highly competitive candidate for roles in research and development within the nuclear, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing sectors, or for further academic pursuits.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Academic Foundation: A strong first-class or 2:1 degree in Engineering or Physical Sciences, with a solid understanding of fluid mechanics and heat transfer, is essential.
• Technical Proficiency: Practical experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, particularly OpenFOAM, is highly desirable. Proficiency in programming languages like MATLAB and/or Python will be a significant asset for data analysis and tool development.
• Commitment to Training: The initial intensive training program requires full-time engagement and involves regular travel to partner universities. This is a demanding but highly rewarding phase that builds a strong foundational cohort.
• UK Home Fee Status: Please note that due to funding eligibility, this studentship is exclusively available to candidates who qualify for UK Home fee status.
• Research Focus: This is a highly specialized research project. Candidates should be prepared for rigorous theoretical work, extensive simulation, and data analysis in a niche but critically important field.

This PhD studentship represents a unique opportunity to make a tangible contribution to the future of fusion energy. It demands dedication, strong analytical skills, and a genuine passion for scientific discovery, offering a rich and rewarding experience for the successful candidate.