Intelligent Algorithms for Sustainability

Details

To address and mitigate global warming, we must act now! New alternative processes based on biological feedstocks and renewable/alternative heat sources are essential. We must design new processes/retrofit existing processes to use energy, heat and materials efficiently (i.e., heat and mass integration). Reimagining the world requires intelligent design of a number of processes: large scale chemical plants (e.g., those that manufacture bulk chemicals) as well as new thermo-mechanical energy-conversion devices (e.g., heat pumps, organic Rankine cycles and so on).

The design of new processes (either for manufacturing or energy conversion) involves choosing materials (e.g, refrigerants, solvents, catalysts, heat transfer fluids) as well as the unit operations in the process (e.g., number of turbines, distillation columns, heat exchangers) and their connectivity. New algorithms are required for Integrated Molecular and Process Synthesis (IMPS), that is the activity of choosing the best-fit molecules, unit operations and their connectivity for a given chemical process. IMPS relies on detailed and rigorous process models, advanced group-contribution equations of state and techno-economic analysis.

The project involves the development of new IMPS algorithms that are efficient in solving this high-dimensional problem. The IMPS algorithm may be applied to the design of  efficient carbon capture processes, separation processes in manufacturing as well as conceptualization of thermo-mechanical energy conversion devices. The project shall build upon recent advances in molecular design, structure-property relationships as well as a new robust formulation of the process synthesis problem.

The PhD student will have a chance to i) work with advanced process and fluid modelling; ii) understand, use, modify and extend advanced optimization algorithms; iii) apply concepts previously learnt in thermodynamics, heat transfer, engineering; iv) work on topical issues important for climate change and sustainability and v) obtain transferable skills in version control, programming, chemical process simulation and optimization. The project supervisor is keen to provide superlative research training, transferable skills and a supportive and fun environment for every PhD student.

Why the University of Sheffield?

Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of  Sheffield is multidisciplinary, collaborative and friendly. CBE strives to make every student feel welcome and nurture research careers. Sheffield is the UK's greenest city with more trees per person than any other city in Europe. The University also boasts of a Students’ Union that has been consistently ranked the best by students and also has great sports facilities. The University is centrally located with easy access to a range of dining and entertainment options. The stunning Peak District, an expanse of rolling hills, is only a few miles away from the University. The cost of living in Sheffield, especially accommodation, is significantly cheaper than London. Sheffield is well connected and is two hours away from London and an hour away from Manchester.

How to Apply:

Please see this link for information on how to apply: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/cbe/postgraduate/phd/how-apply. Please include the name of your proposed supervisor and the title of the PhD project within your application.

Qualifications:

The candidate for this position should:

• Have a minimum of an upper second class honours degree in either Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering (or similar), Physics or Computer Science.
• Have an interest in algorithms, mathematics and programming , irrespective of skill level.
• Be eager to learn more!

Contact: Write to [email protected] for more enquiries about this position.