PhD in collaboration with Mitsubishi Electric Corporation to minimise corrosion in heat pumps

This is an exciting fully funded 3-year PhD opportunity with an enhanced stipend of £20,000 per annum in partnership with Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. This is an experimental project that will look at improving water quality to minimise heat pump corrosion. The successful candidate will be based at Cranfield University and will work closely with Mitsubishi Electric’s Research and Development team to deliver the outputs of the research. Read moreRead less

Heat pumps are an exciting energy-efficient heating and cooling technology and their implementation will play a role on the road to sustainability.

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

is a world-leading supplier of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems promoting the development of zero energy building and house systems. This project is part of Mitsubishi Electric’s R&D into the next generation of environment and energy systems, targeting increasing sustainability, reliability, efficiency and quality of solutions.

Hydronic systems are common in Europe for supply of hot water and heating. The quality of water varies across European regions where Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps are installed. Corrosion and scaling are often a consequence of water quality, therefore it essential to understand the fundamentals of water chemistry with the aim of developing methods or devices to improve water quality and protect heat pump components. This project will look at investigating water treatment technologies that can improve water quality entering heat pumps to minimise corrosion of key components. The research will experimentally study and compare how these technologies change water quality, their impact on corrosion and scale formation. The research will also look at predictive tools to assess long-term behaviour of the water treatment and material corrosion.

The successful applicant will make use of our

state-of-the-art facilities

at Cranfield for the experimental work. As part of the Cranfield research experience, the student will benefit from our

Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme

, which provides a wide range of transferable skills training and a wealth of social and networking opportunities. This project also provides support for conference attendance and the opportunity to spend time in an industrial setting with the sponsor.

At the end of the project the successful applicant will be very well positioned to have a highly successful career in an industry or academic role. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation also aims to recruit sponsored students, where that is appropriate. We will help you develop into a dynamic, confident, and highly competent researcher with wider transferable skills (communication, project management and leadership) with an international network of colleagues.

At a glance

• Application deadline05 Dec 2022
• Award type(s)PhD
• Start date01 Feb 2023
• Duration of award3 years
• EligibilityUK, EU
• Reference numberSWEE0203

Entry requirements

We are looking for a motivated individual with a relevant science or engineering background to start in February 2023. Applicants should have a first- or second-class UK honours degree or equivalent. Previous laboratory or modelling experience would be desirable, but not essential. The candidate should be self-motivated and driven, have good communication skills for regular interaction with key stakeholders, and with an interest in applied scientific research.

Funding

Sponsored by Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, this studentship will provide a bursary of £20,000 (tax free) plus fees for three years. 

To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be EU or UK national. We require that applicants are under no restrictions regarding how long they can stay in the UK (settled status for EU applicants).

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network.  This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

How to apply

If you are eligible to apply for this PhD, please complete the online application form  stating the reference No. SWEE0203

For further information please contact:
Dr Irene Carra
E:   irene.carra @cranfield.ac.uk

Admissions
T: +44 (0)1234 758082
E: studywater@cranfield.ac.uk

Our Values

Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. Find out more here. We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential.

Diversity and Inclusion
As an inclusive and diverse doctoral centre, we welcome applications from all highly motivated individuals, regardless of background, identity or disability.