Modelling and experiment for degradation of solid oxide cells used for energy transition

About the project

About the Project This collaborative project between the University of Manchester and Aston University, embarks on the challenge of developing predictive modelling for solid oxide cells that are valuable tools for Energy Transition. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) are promising technologies for clean energy conversion and storage, but their widespread deployment is hindered by degradation phenomena that limit lifetime and reliability. Degradation mechanisms such as nickel coarsening, chromium poisoning, redox cycling, and microstructural evolution in electrodes reduce electrochemical performance, while thermo-mechanical stresses cause cracking and delamination. Developing accurate multiphysics models that couple electrochemistry, gas transport, heat transfer, and mechanical stresses is essential to understand how these degradation processes emerge and interact under realistic operating conditions. This research will focus on building predictive, multiscale models that bridge electrode microstructure dynamics with cell- and stack-level performance over time. By integrating degradation kinetics into electrochemical–thermal simulations, the work aims to capture long-term performance decay in both SOFC and SOEC modes. The PhD candidate will carry out the predictive modelling at the University of Manchester, while the experiments required for validation of modelled will be carried out at Aston University. Eligibility Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline such as mechanical engineering or chemical engineering. Funding The supervisor is currently awaiting confirmation of funding for home students. If you require funding, please discuss this directly with the supervisor, masoud.babaei@manchester.ac.uk . The duration of the project is 3.5 years, and applications are welcome from both self-funded candidates and those with external funding. We strongly recommend applying early, as the advert will be withdrawn once the position has been filled. Before you apply We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor masoud.babaei@manchester.ac.uk for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project. How to apply Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425 When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered. After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents: Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress CV Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it). Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference) English Language certificate (if applicable) If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk . Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status. We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder). featuredproject2sep25

Research areas