Numerical simulation of boiling flows for high heat flux fusion components

Aim and objectives

This project aims to develop a high-fidelity modelling framework to predict key thermal hydraulic parameters for boiling flows within complex geometries at high heat flux conditions, relevant to the engineering design of thermal management elements for fusion components. This framework foresees two building blocks:

1. High-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of boiling flows within complex geometry using open-source software and cutting-edge adaptive mesh refinement techniques
2. A lightweight prediction tool developed upon simulation data to predict key thermofluidic parameters for the design of high heat flux cooling components

The objectives are to:

• Develop and validate a CFD tool for interface-resolved simulations of boiling, built upon existing software available at the University of Nottingham
• Use CFD simulations to characterise bubble dynamics and heat transfer in subcooled flow boiling within bends and complex geometries in fusion-relevant cooling channels
• Develop and validate an advanced boiling model with a specific focus on critical heat flux (CHF), tailored to complex geometries typical of fusion reactor cooling systems
• Compile a comprehensive dataset of boiling parameters to support machine learning-based analysis of two-phase flow behaviour

You will be based at the University of Nottingham and spend time annually at the UKAEA Fusion Technology Facility in Yorkshire, working with the Thermal Hydraulics Group to support knowledge transfer.

Candidate requirements

• 1st or 2:1 academic qualification in engineering or physical sciences or a related discipline, with expertise in fluid mechanics and heat transfer
• Experience with computational fluid dynamics software, preferably OpenFOAM
• Programming skills with software such as Matlab and/or Python.

Funding

You will receive a four-year studentship including home tuition fees, UKRI stipend (£21,804 in 2026-27) and a RTSG budget for project costs. All costs associated with attending training at the Fusion Engineering Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) will be met by the CDT.

This project is part-funded by a Community Studentship provided by the Fusion Engineering CDT. You will be based at the University of Nottingham but should expect to engage fully with the three-month full-time training programme in the Fusion Engineering CDT at the start of the course - October to December inclusive. CDT training will be delivered across the CDT partner universities at Sheffield, Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool. The training course requires weekly travel to attend in-person training at these universities. For further information about the CDT programme, visit the Fusion Engineering CDT website or email hello@fusion-engineering-cdt.ac.uk

Eligibility and how to apply

Due to the nature of the funding this studentship is only available for candidates qualifying for UK Home fee status. Applications from non-UK candidates will not be considered.

To apply, please send an email with subject heading “PhD studentship: numerical simulation of boiling flows for high heat flux fusion components” to Dr Mirco Magnini (mirco.magnini@nottingham.ac.uk) attaching a cover letter, CV and academic transcripts.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Suitable applicants will be interviewed, and if successful, invited to make a formal application. Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and notified.

Closing date for applications: 31 January 2026