The University of Nottingham is inviting applications from ambitious and qualified candidates for a fully funded 4-year PhD Studentship titled “Dynamic Performance and AI-Driven Optimisation of Hybrid Energy Systems for Net Zero”. Conducted within the prestigious Net2Zero Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT), this doctoral project aims to pioneer dynamic, AI-optimised energy models integrating renewable generation, gas turbines, and carbon capture to accelerate the path toward net-zero industrial emissions.
Overview & Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Position / Designation | PhD Studentship / Doctoral Researcher |
| Host Institution | University of Nottingham (in partnership with Net2Zero CDT) |
| Research Discipline | Engineering & Physical Sciences (Energy, Chemical, and Process Engineering) |
| Study Mode & Duration | Full-time, 4 Years |
| Funding Level | Fully Funded (£21,805 per annum tax-free stipend + tuition fees + RTSG) |
| Eligibility | Home Fee Status only; First or upper second-class (2:1) degree in relevant engineering disciplines |
| Location | Nottingham, United Kingdom |
| Programme Start Date | December 2026 |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled (Early applications strongly encouraged) |
Designation
Doctoral Researcher / Postgraduate Research Student (PhD)
Research Area
The research is situated within Engineering and Physical Sciences, focusing on:
- Hybrid energy system design and thermodynamic modelling
- Low-temperature carbon capture and biomass gasification
- Advanced solar thermal power and industrial waste-to-energy pathways
- Transient system simulation under dynamic grid demand profiles
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning-driven control and optimisation
- Techno-economic analysis and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
Location
University of Nottingham, Nottingham, England, United Kingdom.
Scholarship Description
This doctoral research project seeks to develop and assess a state-of-the-art hybrid energy system that integrates low-temperature carbon capture, gas turbines, biomass gasification, and advanced solar thermal technology to achieve carbon-negative fuel production while maintaining power grid stability.
The selected PhD researcher will be part of the Net2Zero Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)—a collaborative network connecting the University of Nottingham, Aston University, Queen’s University Belfast, and the University of Warwick. The programme provides:
- State-of-the-art laboratory and computational facilities.
- Direct industrial exposure through a compulsory 3-month research, policy, or industrial placement.
- Specialist training in entrepreneurship, science communication, and engineering leadership.
- Collaborative engagements across leading UK and international academic networks.
Financial Package:
- Stipend: Tax-free living allowance aligned with UKRI rates (£21,805 per annum projected for 2026/27).
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of UK tuition fees for the entire 4-year duration.
- Research Training Support Grant (RTSG): Additional funding support for project consumables, travel, and conference attendance.
Supervisory Team
- Dr Ioanna Dimitriou – University of Nottingham
- Dr Oliver Fisher – University of Nottingham
Eligibility / Qualification Criteria
Applicants must meet both the academic and residency requirements:
- Academic Qualifications: Candidates should hold, or expect to achieve, a First-Class or strong Upper Second-Class (2:1) Honours degree (or equivalent postgraduate qualification) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Process Engineering, or a closely related STEM field.
- Technical Knowledge: A solid foundation in thermodynamics, energy systems, process modelling, and experience with programming or simulation software (e.g., MATLAB, Python, Aspen Plus, TRNSYS, or EES) is highly desirable.
- Residency Status: Open strictly to candidates eligible for UK Home Fee Status under UK student finance regulations.
How to Apply
Prospective applicants are advised to submit an early application via the University of Nottingham vacancies portal.
For research-related queries, please contact the primary academic supervisors:
- Dr Ioanna Dimitriou: Ioanna.Dimitriou@nottingham.ac.uk
- Dr Oliver Fisher: Oliver.Fisher2@nottingham.ac.uk
For administrative queries regarding funding criteria, eligibility, and the CDT programme, contact Md Ashif Chy at EZ-Net2Zero-CDT@nottingham.ac.uk.
Last Date for Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Candidates are advised to apply as early as possible before the start date in December 2026.
Apply Link
To view full project details and complete your online application, visit the official vacancy announcement:
Apply Now: University of Nottingham PhD Vacancy (Ref: ENG416)
