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