SU-3-1 Hydrogen Conversion of a Gas Turbine – Optimisation Operating Parameters for Co-Firing

About the project

About the Project This PhD is one of a number of projects hosted by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF). We are offering pioneering research projects that will enable PhD researchers to explore key technologies and solutions that will support UK industry to reach net zero. Project Description This project will include experimental work on industrial pilot-scale plants at the Energy Innovation Centre – including the multi-fuel gas turbine and the hydrogen electrolyser. A number of operating parameters can be manipulated to alter the performance of a gas turbine, whether utilising natural gas, hydrogen or blends of these. This project will consider a range of operating parameters, optimising these and various process conditions to enhance the overall performance of the gas turbine employing specific indicators. Used with a complementary CFD modelling approach, the research will define the optimal values for a range of key parameters and explore how these differ for various turndown ratios and fuel blends. This will be applicable to gas turbine power stations, enabling them to devise operating strategies to enhance performance based on fuel availability and load requirements. There may also be applications for industrial gas firing plants, where fuel costs and availability may determine the operating strategy required. Supervisors Prof. Mohamed Pourkashanian / cdtgreenindustrialfutures@hw.ac.uk Dr Karen Finney Application Criteria As a minimum we require candidates to have a First-class or 2:1 MEng or and MSc with merit (over 60%) in a relevant area i.e. Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Geoscience etc. Candidates for socio-politico-economic research topics will also be considered with a relevant MA. Applicants who have a First-class BSc/BEng (Hons) and can demonstrate significant relevant industry/research experience may also be considered. Candidates should be aware of and meet the entry requirements for the university hosting the PhD studentship. Chemical or mechanical engineering, ideally, although other backgrounds may be relevant. Some previous experience of using CFD would be useful but not essential. Funding Notes The programme is four years and starts in September 2026. Funding includes full UK fees, tax-free stipend (2025/2026 stipend is £20,780), plus budget for travel and consumables. Enquiries cdtgreenindustrialfutures@hw.ac.uk Application Web Page https://greenindustrialfutures.site.hw.ac.uk/ CDT in Green Industrial Futures The CDT is funded by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and is a partnership between Heriot Watt University, Imperial College London, and the Universities of Sheffield and Bath. The CDT is further supported by contributions from industrial partners. Bringing these leading universities together allows CDT-GIF students access to a wide range of academic expertise, resources and facilities. The CDT-GIF has an exciting and challenging programme specifically designed for top performing junior researchers. Alongside the four-year research project, students will receive expert training and opportunities to contextualise their research within the wider net zero landscape, including: Residential taught courses at each of the partner universities in Years 1 and 2 that provide training in the systematic considerations for industry including: Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), technoeconomics, business models, policy & regulation, public engagement, plant operation. An international opportunity in Year 2 or 3 of the programme, including opportunities to visit a world-leading facility, conference or forum and explore the global context of industrial decarbonisation. A work placement with one of our industrial partners. A bespoke ‘net-zero leadership programme’, including regular exchanges with cohort members from the other universities, student-led activities, industry challenge sandpit, industrial site visits, and professional development opportunities.

Research areas