Loughborough University
Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering
Supervisors: Dr Huayong Zhao, Dr Ed Long
Application deadline: Thursday, December 10, 2026
Funding: Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
Flow boiling is one of the most efficient heat transfer mechanisms and plays a critical role in modern energy systems, including electronics cooling, renewable energy, and advanced thermal management technologies. However, its practical deployment is often limited by the lack of reliable predictive models, due to the complex and inherently stochastic nature of multiphase flow phenomena.
This PhD project aims to develop next-generation, uncertainty-aware stochastic models for flow boiling, moving beyond traditional deterministic approaches. The research will combine advanced data-driven modelling with high-resolution experimental analysis. You will work with an established flow boiling facility equipped with state-of-the-art optical diagnostics to generate and analyse time-resolved experimental data, providing a unique opportunity to bridge fundamental science with real-world engineering applications.
The successful candidate will join a dynamic, industry-collaborative research team and will develop expertise at the interface of thermal sciences, data science, and machine learning.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement automated image-processing algorithms to extract and quantify statistical characteristics of flow boiling processes
- Develop stochastic flow boiling models and rigorously quantify associated uncertainties
- Develop uncertainty-aware artificial neural network models for predictive modelling of multiphase heat transfer
94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Supervisors
- Primary supervisor: Huayong Zhao
- Secondary supervisors: Steven Kenny, Ed Long
Entry requirements
Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, a first-class or high upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline. A relevant Master’s degree or prior research experience in experimental and/or analytical multiphase thermofluids systems would be advantageous but not essential.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
This PhD project is jointly funded by Loughborough University and Caterpillar, one of the University's long-standing industrial collaborators, providing the successful candidate with the opportunity to engage with both academic and industry partners throughout the project.
The studentship provides an enhanced tax-free stipend of £22,437 per year, for a minimum of 3 years, with future increases applied in line with any annual uplift to the UKRI base stipend rate.
The studentship is open to UK/International students and will cover the full tuition fees.
How to apply
All applications should be made online.
Under programme name, select Mechanical, Electrical & Manufacturing Engineering. Please quote the advertised reference number ‘FP-HZ-2026R’ in your application under the ‘Finance’ section.
Applications must include a personal statement, up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV), details of two referees (one from your highest degree qualification), certified certificates and transcripts for all completed degree programmes, and a reference to the project ‘FP-HZ- 2026R’. Submission of a research proposal is not essential but may strengthen your application.
You are encouraged to contact the [contact details available in the full listing] to discuss your suitability and interest in the project.
