Low carbon marine propulsion systems using hydrogen and hydrogen carrying fuels


   Department of Mechanical Engineering

   Applications accepted all year round  Competition Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

About the Project

Join our Research Team in Hydrogen Technologies

Are you a passionate, forward-thinking engineer with a background in Mechanical Engineering or Marine Engineering? Do you have a strong track record in academic research related to hydrogen or hydrogen carrying fuels power and propulsion systems? If so, we invite you to apply for a prestigious PhD scholarship in a cutting-edge research project in the field of hydrogen and hydrogen carrying fuel marine propulsion system development.

You will be part of our research team in the National Clean Maritime Research Hub (UK-MaRes). This national hub will foster close partnerships with a diverse range of collaborators, including shipping companies, ports, equipment and service providers, fuel producers, and civic bodies and will focus on cutting-edge research in vital areas such as sustainable marine fuels, low-carbon power, and propulsion systems for shipping, decarbonised port operations and infrastructure, enhanced maritime operations, and improved vessel efficiency.

Eligibility Criteria

Academic Background: Applicants must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Marine Engineering.

Research Experience: Successful candidates should have a demonstrated interest in and contributions to academic publications related to research on low carbon power and propulsion systems. We seek individuals with research experience in one of the following areas:

• Thermofluids and combustion research on zero carbon fuels

• Fuel additives and combustion emission analysis

• Alternative fuel powered heat engines and disruptive engine development

• Development of hybrid marine propulsion systems

Essential Knowledge and Skills: Prospective candidates should possess most of the following:

• Extensive lab experience in fuel spray, combustion and engine testing

• In-depth fundamental knowledge in thermofluids and combustion

• Strong data processing skills using tools such as MATLAB, Python, etc.

• Proficiency in using facilities and equipment in combustion/engine/fuel cell labs

• Proficiency in professional software relevant to combustion, engine, and/or fuel cell research

• Knowledge and safety awareness of hydrogen and hydrogen carrying fuel properties

• Familiarity or direct research experience in digital twin of propulsion systems

Other Attributes: The desired candidate should exhibit the following attributes:

• A team player who can collaborate effectively with researchers, technicians, and industry partners

• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present research findings in academic conferences and seminars

• Fast learner with the ability to quickly adapt to new knowledge and research techniques

Application Process: If you meet these requirements and have research experience in the specified areas and are excited to be part of groundbreaking research in hydrogen technologies, please submit your application including a CV, academic transcripts, a cover letter detailing your research interests and experiences, and contact information for two academic references.

Starting Time: The PhD program is scheduled to commence in January 2024.

Deadline for Applications: Applications must be submitted by 31 December 2023.

For More Information: For further details on the research project and application instructions, please contact Dr Dawei Wu () .

Join us on the forefront of hydrogen technology research and make a significant contribution to a sustainable and clean energy future.

Engineering (12)

Funding Notes

The scholarship is generously funded by School of Engineering, and dedicated to the research hub project, covering tuition fees at the home rate. In addition, a maintenance stipend (£18,622 per year for the 2023/24 academic year) will be provided for a duration of 3 years. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to apply for teaching and research assistant positions.

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