Deciphering the Fundamental Challenges of Hydrogen’s Thermodynamic and Transport Properties for its Storage at Ultra-Low Temperatures Harnessing Nanoporous Materials

The Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Bath is inviting applications for the following fully-funded PhD project.

This advert will close when a suitable candidate is identified. Early application is therefore encouraged.

Project Background

UK-HyRES Hub PhD Opportunity: Unlocking the Future of Hydrogen Storage

Are you ready to pioneer groundbreaking research at the forefront of hydrogen energy innovation? The UK Hub for Research Challenges in Hydrogen and Alternative Liquid Fuels (UK-HyRES) invites passionate and driven candidates to join the esteemed Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Bath.

Overview: In collaboration with the UK-HyRES Hub, this PhD opportunity delves into the critical realm of predicting hydrogen’s thermodynamic and transport properties at temperatures down to 20K (-253.15°C) to drive the design of appropriate storage by confinement. Focused on utilising nanoporous materials, we aim to address the pressing challenges in achieving efficient hydrogen storage. Our research highlights the necessity of quantum modification of classical Molecular Dynamics and Monte Carlo approaches due to the low temperatures required, paving the way for a quantum leap in hydrogen energy solutions.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Unravelling Thermodynamic and Transport Properties: Delve into the complexities of hydrogen fluid in bulk and confined environments.
2. Investigating Fundamental Challenges: Explore the intricacies of hydrogen storage by confinement in nanoporous materials.
3. Quantum Modification: Examine the necessity and implications of quantum modification at low temperatures.
4. Molecular Simulation Methodologies: Gain expertise and utilise cutting-edge molecular simulation techniques as the cornerstone of your research.

Why Join Us?

• Collaborate with leading experts in the field of hydrogen energy research.
• Access state-of-the-art facilities and resources at the University of Bath and associated members of the UK-HyRES Hub.
• Contribute to tackling one of the most pressing challenges of our time: sustainable energy.

Candidate Requirements

• A passion for research and innovation in the field of hydrogen energy.
• An eagerness to learn and adapt, with no prior molecular simulation knowledge required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or high Upper Second Class Honours degree (or the equivalent). A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.

Non-UK applicants must meet our English language entry requirement.

Enquiries and Applications

For inquiries and application submissions, please get in touch with Dr Carmelo Herdes, Deputy Head of Department, at cehm21@bath.ac.uk and Prof. Tina Düren, Centre for Integrated Materials, Processes & Structures (IMPS) Director, at td222@bath.ac.uk

Join us and shape the future of hydrogen energy!

Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Chemical Engineering.

Apply now and embark on a journey of discovery with us!

You must select ‘University of Bath LURS’ from the dropdown menu in the ‘Funding your studies’ section of the application form and provide the supervisor’s name and project title in the ‘Your PhD project’ section. Failure to complete these steps will result in a delay to the processing of your application and may cause you to miss the deadline.

Applications must include a CV and cover letter outlining your research interests and motivations for joining the University of Bath/UK-HyRES Hub initiative.

More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found on our website.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.

If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.

Keywords

Net-zero emissions, Hydrogen Economy, Molecular Simulations, Molecular Dynamics, Monte Carlo, Nanoporous Materials, Safe Storage, Adsorption Isotherms, cryogenic, quantum effects, path integrals, Feynman-Hibbs quantum corrections, vapour-liquid equilibria, thermodynamic properties, transport properties