About this role
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Programme Length: 4 Years
Start Date: December 2026
Project Overview
This fully funded PhD project aims to develop and evaluate a novel hybrid energy system integrating gas turbines, low-temperature carbon capture, biomass gasification, and advanced solar thermal technologies to enable carbon-negative fuel production and grid support.
The research will focus on developing intelligent energy systems capable of reducing carbon emissions, improving grid stability, and enhancing sustainable energy generation. The project combines thermodynamic modelling, transient simulation, techno-economic assessment, life cycle analysis, and AI-driven optimisation to support the UK's net-zero ambitions.
Research Objectives
The successful candidate will:
Develop thermodynamic models of integrated hybrid energy systems. Conduct transient simulations using UK climate and grid demand profiles. Evaluate system performance under varying operating conditions. Perform techno-economic and life cycle assessments. Develop AI-driven optimisation and intelligent control strategies. Investigate opportunities for deployment across industrial applications, including steel, cement, and waste-to-energy sectors.
Supervisory Team
Dr Ioanna Dimitriou, University of Nottingham Dr Oliver Fisher, University of Nottingham
About the Net2Zero Centre for Doctoral Training
The Net2Zero CDT is a partnership between Aston University, the University of Nottingham, Queen's University Belfast, and the University of Warwick. Students benefit from:
Access to world-class research facilities. Collaboration with academic and industrial partners. International networking opportunities. Training in engineering, communication, entrepreneurship, and business skills. A three-month industrial, research, or policy placement.
Candidate Profile
Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First-Class or strong 2:1 degree (or equivalent) in:
Chemical Engineering Mechanical Engineering Energy Engineering Process Engineering Or a closely related discipline
A background in thermodynamics, energy systems, process modelling, programming, or simulation tools such as MATLAB, Python, Aspen Plus, TRNSYS, or EES is desirable.
Funding Package
UKRI tax-free stipend (£21,805 per annum for 2026/27) Full tuition fee support Research Training Support Grant (RTSG)
Eligibility
This opportunity is open to Home Fee Status candidates only. You can find the rules for home fee eligibility.Rules for home fee eligibility
Academic Queries
For enquiries regarding the research project, please contact:
Dr Ioanna Dimitriou- [email protected] Dr Oliver Fisher- [email protected]
Administrative Queries
For enquiries regarding eligibility, funding, or the application process, please contact:
Net2Zero CDT Team, Md Ashif Chy, [email protected]
Please apply via the ‘Apply’ button above.