PhD. Process Intensification: Plasma, oscillating and vortex flows.

The Place & the Project

The School of Engineering and Physical Sciences (EPS), at Heriot-Watt University, HWU, combines a long-standing reputation in the energy sector with a pioneering role in the UK energy transition championing the UK Industrial Decarbonisation Research and Innovation Centre (IDRIC) and the Global Research Institute GRI iNetZ+. The successful candidate with join xFlow - Complex Flow Technologies, led by Dr Victor Francia and Dr Ali Ozel. xFlow focuses on process technology with the potential to disrupt the energy and manufacturing sectors. We intensify new gas-solid operations (e.g. vortex, oscillatory, plasma reactors) and integrate them in the design of circular processes (e.g. chemical waste recycling, H2, heat management). The team studies complex multiphase flows at multiple scales, from characterization to prototyping and optimization, and combines experimentation with computational modelling. We look for solutions to bring clean energy, new vectors and storage technologies into traditional chemical and biochemical processes, enabling these sectors to adopt sustainable practices quickly and efficiently.

This project will focus on modelling and design of gas-solid reactors. The PhD will be integrated in the EPSRC-funded project k768£ FE | REVOC, and work on intensification of gas-solid operations. We will explore how the use of additional degrees of freedom in the design of new process technology can provide not only more efficient, compact units but a robust and flexible platform to integrate different sources of clean energy sources in traditional processes (2023 - CEPPI – Francia V - Voices of the next generation of process intensification). In this project, we will study how vortex and/or oscillatory flows intensify catalytic reactions, and we will explore their combination with different sources of irradiation (plasma, solar and microwaves) with potential to drive a clean pathway for waste management and decarbonization processes. The PhD will benefit from a close interaction with the REVOC team, working in modelling, prototyping and demonstrating an advanced gas-solid responsive vortex unit. The work will have access to experimental demonstration, but it is focused on using a combination of theoretical analysis and state-of-the-art computational tools to understand the behaviour of complex gas-solid flows under a source of external irradiation to design and optimise new (potentially plasma, solar, microwave) reactors. Their application has potential to lead not only to more efficient devices, but to enable entirely new routes for processes such as plastic degradation, CO₂ utilization and H₂ generation. 

We offer

·       Fully funded 3.5 scholarship (monthly stipend according to UKRC plus home PhD fees).

·       A stimulating position combining computational modelling with technology development.

·       Exceptional mentorship by expert academics and the growing xFlow team.

·       State-of-the-art modelling platform and support by EPSRC-funded experimental facilities.

·       Opportunity to acquire teaching experience with a paid contribution.

·       Professional and personal development within HW Research Future Academy 

At the end of this PhD, you will be

·       A proven scientist able to use state-of-the-art computational models to drive real change. 

·       An expert in the future of innovative technology at the core of sustainable engineering. 

·       Equipped with in-depth knowledge of process design in the energy transition.

·       An accomplished speaker, able to address a varied range of audiences. 

·       A promising graduate ready for senior roles in R&D, consultancy, or engineering.

Your profile

The ideal candidate would have a Master Level degree in mechanical / chemical engineering / physics or a related discipline with outstanding record. She/he would have a strong interest in multiphase flow, reaction engineering and/or computational modelling. S/he would also need to be fluent in English, be proactive, independent and with a can-do mentality. 

Application process

Applications to be received by 10 / 01 / 2025. The expected start date is September 2025 after the completion of a competitive selection process. Scholarships are open to UK applicants, or those with “Settled” status in the UK. Exceptional oversea applications are welcome to apply but an additional source of funding for the yearly PhD fees will need to be secured. 

Interested candidates are advice to contact Dr Victor Francia, [Email Address Removed], with:

·       A CV 

·       BEng/Meng/MSc grades 

·       A motivation letter explaining your interest/aptitudes for this position 

The selected candidate will be invited to apply to a PhD position via the Heriot-Watt application site and be put forward for consideration in the interviewing process of the Institute of Mechanical and Process Engineering IMPEE, with a resolution expected in February 2025.