The project:

In this PhD, the student will develop the next generation of experimental techniques used to parameterise battery models. Models are used across the battery industry to replicate the expected operational performance of their physical counterparts, yet they are fundamentally limited by the accuracy of their input parameters. These input parameters are found through ‘parameterisation’ experiments. It is becoming increasingly apparent that parameterisation experiments are not fit for purpose, they are inaccurate and time/cost expensive. Waiting months to parameterise a battery model which you do not trust is a luxury that modern engineering companies cannot afford.

The motivation for the PhD is simple to summarise. Temperature affects every aspect of battery performance, yet the existing state-of-the-art parameterisation experiments confine temperature as a poorly controlled constant. You will lead the development of methods which use temperature as a well-controlled variable, and in doing so you will add an additional dimension to the parameters which define the performance of every battery model. The battery industry is expected to triple in size before 2030. Your contributions will be critical as transport and energy storage is electrified throughout the first half of the 21st century.

You will begin with an experimental evaluation of the established battery model parameterisation techniques, before developing your own methods which focus on the use of advanced thermal control and transient thermal conditions. Alongside experimental work, you will develop your own understanding of battery model design and operation. Work will involve interaction and collaboration with a close-knit community of UK-based battery researchers, and you will have opportunities to travel to other institutions and conferences in the UK and beyond, to further your learning and ultimately present your key findings.

How to apply:

Please make an online application online for this project at http://www.bris.ac.uk/pg-howtoapply. Please select <Mechanical Engineering> on the Programme Choice page. You will be prompted to enter details of the studentship in the Funding and Research Details sections of the form.

Candidate requirements: 

Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum of a master’s degree (or international equivalent) in a science, mathematics, or engineering discipline. Applicants without a master’s qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree.  

If English is not your first language, you need to meet this profile level:

Profile E
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.

Basic skills and knowledge required.

Knowledge of computer-based design software (e.g. AutoDesk) and common coding languages (e.g. Python) is welcome but not essential. No prior expertise in electrochemistry is required.

Funding:

Stipend at the UKRI minimum stipend level (£15,609 in 2021/22).  The scholarship will also cover the amount of tuition fees associated with UK-based students. Funding is subject to eligibility status and confirmation of award.

For EPSRC funding, students must meet the EPSRC residency requirements.

Contacts:

Informal enquires please contact Dr Alastair Hales ([email protected])

General enquiries please contact [email protected]