This PhD project at the University of Liverpool focuses on numerical and experimental research into a flexible heat pump system, addressing critical challenges in UK domestic heating. With heat accounting for half of the UK's energy consumption and ambitious government targets to install 19 million heat pumps by 2050, innovative solutions are needed to overcome barriers such as low adoption rates and the incompatibility of current heat pumps with high-temperature heating systems prevalent in UK homes. The project centers on a newly developed flexible heat pump technology that integrates heat storage within a conventional vapour compression cycle. This approach enables the recovery, storage, and reuse of waste heat generated during operation, significantly improving energy efficiency compared to traditional heat pumps. The research will involve both modelling and experimental work, providing the student with hands-on experience and opportunities for collaboration with industrial partners. As part of the School of Engineering, the student will engage with advanced topics in energy technologies, fluid mechanics, mechanical engineering, and thermodynamics. The project is well-suited for candidates with a strong academic background in these areas, particularly those interested in sustainable energy solutions and practical engineering challenges. The University funded Studentship offers full tuition fees (£5,006 per annum for 2025-26) and a maintenance grant at UKRI standard rates (£20,780 per annum for 2025-26) for three years. Additional support is available through a Research Training Support Grant, which can be used for consumables and conference attendance. The studentship is open to both home and international applicants, though international students must cover the difference in tuition fees. Applications are accepted year-round. Prospective candidates should complete the University of Liverpool's online postgraduate research application form, ensuring the project title and reference number ENGMAE002 are included. An interview will be arranged for shortlisted applicants. For further details and to apply, visit the project page.

This PhD opportunity at the University of Liverpool focuses on the application of machine learning methods to model and optimise operational strategies for trans-critical CO2 heat pumps. Heat pumps are a critical technology for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with CO2-based systems offering significant environmental and energy efficiency advantages over traditional refrigerants. The project aims to advance sustainable heating and cooling technologies by leveraging advanced computational methodologies to enhance the performance and operational range of CO2 heat pumps. Based within the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, the research will involve collaboration with industry partner isentra Ltd, providing access to substantial real-world datasets for model validation and optimisation. The student will work on developing data-driven models and optimisation algorithms to improve heat pump efficiency and contribute to greener energy solutions. Key research areas include energy technologies, fluid mechanics, mechanical engineering, and thermodynamics. The University of Liverpool is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse academic environment, offering support and reasonable project adaptations for students with disabilities or personal circumstances. Applicants may be eligible for a Disabled Students Allowance in addition to the studentship. Funding for this position includes a university-funded studentship covering full tuition fees (£5,006 per annum for 2025-26) and a maintenance grant at UKRI standard rates (£20,780 per annum for 2025-26) for three years. Additional funding is available through a Research Training Support Grant for consumables and conference attendance. The studentship is open to both home and international applicants, though international students must cover the difference in tuition fees. Eligibility requires a Master’s Degree or equivalent in an appropriate field of Engineering from a reputable university. Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor’s Degree will also be considered. The university encourages applications from all backgrounds and offers support for those with caring responsibilities or disabilities. Applications are accepted year-round. To apply, candidates should complete the University of Liverpool online postgraduate research application form for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, including the project title and reference number ENGMAE001. An interview will be arranged for shortlisted applicants. For further details, refer to the university’s 'How to apply for a PhD' guide.