Computational Design of Compact Thermal Batteries with Advanced Thermally Conductive Materials

Summary

Efficient thermal energy storage is increasingly important for improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions and enabling greater flexibility in low-carbon energy systems. Latent heat thermal batteries are particularly attractive because phase change materials can store large amounts of thermal energy within a compact volume while operating over a relatively narrow temperature range. Their performance depends strongly on the design and thermal characteristics of the heat exchanger responsible for transferring heat into and out of the storage medium.

This PhD project will investigate the computational design and optimisation of compact latent heat thermal batteries using advanced thermally conductive materials and innovative heat exchanger concepts. The research will primarily employ computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and numerical modelling to examine melting and solidification behaviour, conductive and convective heat transfer, material properties, heat exchanger geometry and operating conditions. The aim is to identify optimal combinations of material properties, geometry and operating parameters that improve charging and discharging rates, power density and overall thermal performance while maintaining compactness.

Where appropriate, the computational research will be supported by material characterisation and small-scale experimental validation. Through collaboration with industry partner Senergy Innovations Ltd, the researcher will have opportunities to work with advanced thermally conductive materials, access relevant testing facilities, and gain industrial insight into material selection and practical thermal management applications.

The successful candidate will develop expertise in CFD, CAD-based design, optimisation, thermal energy storage, heat transfer, advanced materials and experimental methods, while working on an industrially relevant challenge at the interface of thermal engineering, materials and low-carbon technology.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject area
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a First Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject area
• International applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to a distinction at Ulster
• Experience or knowledge of research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Track record of peer reviewed publications

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

PhD scholarships are available for this project to all applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile, and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year, or part-time equivalent, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.