Hydrogen is a promising fuel for energy decarbonization. However, the notion of directly-injected (DI) hydrogen in reciprocating engines is still quite nascent. This offers the possibility to induce charge stratification, potentially avoiding abnormal combustion events. Hydrogen flames also behave differently to those of other fuels, as they are able to closely approach walls before extinguishing, impacting the temperature gradient and energy flux at chamber boundaries. A comprehensive characterization of such phenomena necessitates a combined approach of coupled experiments and simulations to resolve the interconnected chemical and hydrodynamic processes occurring in the combustion chamber. Two students will be selected to undertake these activities within two complementary research groups in two different countries (Australia and Belgium). Students will spend time at both the University of Melbourne and KU Leuven within the Combustion CFD group of A/Prof. Mohsen Talei and the LowCarb research group of Asst. Prof. Joshua Lacey. Selected students should be prepared to conduct experiments as well as detailed numerical simulation.

Visit the University of Melbourne Thermodynamics group page and the KU Leuven LowCarb group page to learn more about the research groups.

The candidates must:

• Hold a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Have adequate English communication skills.
• Be flexible and have good time management skills.
• Be able to work autonomously and maintain good interactions with co/supervisors.
• Have the necessary skills to successfully conduct cutting edge experiments, process measurements and undertake detailed computational fluid dynamics simulations.
• Help in the organization of workshops and other events.
• Frequently report the progress of the conducted research to the co/supervisors.
• Be willing to engage in teaching assignments.
• Be willing to travel between Australia and Belgium for this unique PhD undertaking.

The offer includes:

• A unique opportunity to work within two research groups at the University of Melbourne and KU Leuven.
• The opportunity to pursue a joint PhD degree that is fully supported for 4 years, including travel between Australia and Belgium.

Applicants should express their interest by sending an email to thermo-cfd@unimelb.edu.au

The email should contain:

• An academic CV with at least two academic references
• A one-paragraph (up to half an A4 page) statement explaining the motivation for applying for this joint PhD position

A decision is expected as soon as suitable candidates are found, so do not wait until the closure date to apply. You can apply for this job no later than November 27, 2024.