Virtual reality energy system simulation for future zero emission power generation

With the steady increase in the penetration of wind and other renewable energy to the power generation mix, conventional power generations are required to operate with more flexibility, wider fuel diet and substantially lower emissions. This produces significant challenges to both existing and new built power stations in terms of technical, economical and safety requirements. This project aims to combine computational fluid dynamics simulations; chemical process modelling and virtual reality techniques and develop a virtual reality energy system simulation tool for future zero emission power generation systems. The simulation tool will be able to simulate the operation of a power plant in a virtual environment in order to investigate the integration of new technologies to the power plant, to optimise the control of the plant performance under high renewable penetration conditions and to improve power plant staff training and education.

The studentship will support a highly motivated researcher to undertake this cutting edge research for future energy and power generation systems. The successful applicant will receive appropriate training to work at the forefront of research.

Potential applicants should have, or are expecting to obtain in the near future, a first class honours degree in engineering, mathematics, or science. The studentship is open to UK/EU candidates only and therefore the successful candidates should fulfil the eligibility criteria for EPSRC funding through UK nationality and/or residency status.

The research work will be based in the Energy 2050 initiative within the University of Sheffield, and the Department of Mechanical Engineering to develop world-leading activity in energy research. The student will be working within an exciting and dynamic group with approximately 40 PhD researchers and over 12 postdoctoral research fellows undertaking a broad area of energy research with strong links to industry.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering has been a major discipline in the University since its foundation in 1905. The Research Excellence Framework (REF, December 2014) placed the Department within the Top 5 for Mechanical Engineering in the UK.

For further information please contact Professor Derek Ingham ([Email Address Removed])