EPSRC funded DLA PhD studentship for the project “Advanced modelling of nanobubbles in liquid fuels and their impact on injection and combustion
The candidate will be working on an exciting project on a novel fuel concept for the future low-carbon transport in the Centre for Advanced Powertrain and Fuels at Brunel University of London. The project will investigate the fundamentals of nanobubbles in liquid fuels and their applications in combustion engines. Molecular Dynamics (MD) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations will be employed to provide insights on the microscopic behaviour of nanobubbles in liquid fuels and their subsequent impact on fuel injection and combustion process at engine relevant conditions. The successful applicant will become a member of a large research group working on the project, which includes experimental and modelling studies and will work in close collaboration with other members of the team and external research partners. The candidate will attend regular project meetings to report the research progress and is expected to contribute in preparation of journal papers and conference proceedings.
Eligibility
Skills and Experience
Experience in Molecular Dynamics (MD) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations will be an advantage. You should be highly motivated, able to work independently as well as in a team, collaborate with others and have effective communication skills.
Academic Entry Criteria
You will have or be expected to receive a 1st class or 2:1 honours degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics or a similar discipline. A Masters degree is not required but may be an advantage.
If applicable, you should hold an English Language proficiency qualification of or equivalent to an overall score of IELTS 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in all sections).
Both UK (Home) and International students are eligible for this position.
How to apply
Please submit the documents below) to studentships@brunel.ac.uk by Noon on 12th December 2025. Interviews will take place in Dec 2025.
- Your up-to-date CV;
- Your personal statement (300 to 500 words) summarising your background, skills and experience;
- Your Undergraduate/Postgraduate Masters degree certificate(s) and transcript(s);
- Your English language qualification, if appropriate;
- Contact details for TWO referees, one of which can be a member of Brunel University academic staff.
Remember to state the title of the project at the top of your personal statement.
Xinyan Wang - Xinyan Wang is currently a Professor at the Centre of Advanced Powertrain and Fuels, Brunel University London, UK. He was awarded the prestigious UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship Programme in 2020.
Prof. Wang is currently the member of the Peer Review College for the UKRI Talent Peer Review College, associate member of the Peer Review College for the UK Engineering and Natural Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), committee member of Hydrogen Europe Research (HER), committee member of UK Chinese Society of Automotive Engineering (UKCSAE), Senate member of Brunel University London, member of Brunel Hydrogen team.
He is the Associate Principal Editor of Fuel (Elsevier), a member of the editorial board of the international journal Highlights of Vehicles, and a guest editor of MDPI Sustainability, Frontiers in Thermal Engineering and Frontiers in Energy Research. He is a member of BSI committee LBI/50 Fine Bubble Technology (FBT).
His research interests include the research and development of novel fuels, low and zero carbon combustion engines.