PhD Studentship: Advanced Powertrain Development for Novel Fuel Applications Towards Low-Carbon Electrified Propulsion Systems

The development of sustainable and efficient powertrain systems is central to achieving global decarbonisation targets in transport. Professor Xu has long-standing expertise in internal combustion engines, alternative fuels, combustion optimisation, and powertrain control. As the automotive industry transitions towards electrification, integrating novel fuels—such as hydrogen, ammonia, e-fuels, and bio-derived liquid fuels—into hybrid and electrified powertrains presents new opportunities for low-carbon mobility solutions.

This project aims to develop advanced powertrain concepts and control frameworks that can maximise the performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction potential of such new fuels through intelligent design, modelling, and experimental validation.

Research Objectives

1. Investigate the interaction between fuel characteristics and hybrid powertrain configurations, optimising combustion, fuel injection, and mixing processes for carbon-neutral or low-carbon fuels.
2. Develop system-level models and control strategies integrating fuel, engine, electric machine, and energy recovery systems for improved overall efficiency.
3. Validate the developed methods through experimental and simulation studies, assessing system performance, stability, and scalability for industrial applications.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants should hold a First-class (or equivalent) degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Powertrain, or Combustion and Energy Systems, or a closely related discipline. Strong academic performance and research potential are essential.

Funding notes:

The project is supported by the EPSRC Doctoral Training Programme (DTP), offering one home and one overseas 3.5-year studentship covering full tuition fees and a standard UKRI stipend.

For further details of how to apply, please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Advert information