Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice: Investigating the Barriers to Achieving Projected Energy Savings in Railway Systems

A plethora of energy saving devices and technology have been proposed for railway systems to help save energy. These systems employ technology to either to use an alternative fuel, or to harness existing energy, or to store excess energy in batteries, or to use another chemical gradient. Railway companies around the world have been working on various technology applications to improve their energy efficiency, including some of these listed here. However, the projected energy efficiency is never quite met in the practical world. There is limited understanding of critical pathways that affect the implementation of new technologies on the railway.

We would like to invite applications from candidates who would like to work on research that would explore this area. The ideal candidate will have a STEM background and will need to have experience of computer-based programming and creating/implementing simulations of physics-based models. Practical Experience of systems engineering techniques would be highly desirable.

Interested students can make an informal enquiry to Dr Krishnan Venkateswaran ([Email Address Removed]) with the following:

• A brief statement explaining your motivation for pursuing a PhD and how your experience makes you a strong candidate to undertake this research (1-page A4 maximum).

• CV containing academic record and relevant experience.

• Contact details for two referees

Details of how to make an online application for PhD study at the University of Birmingham can be found here https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/how-to-apply/advertised-phd

The PhD student will work at the School of Engineering, Birmingham Centre for Railway Research and Education with a diverse and inclusive working environment. The School of Engineering, at the University of Birmingham, has strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, etc., providing they meet the required criteria.

Find out about the Birmingham Centre for Railway Research and Education on the University of Birmingham website at www.birmingham.ac.uk/railway