EPSRC iCASE PhD Studentship with SLB - Computational Modelling of Advanced Geothermal Systems

We invite applications for a fully funded four-year EPSRC iCASE PhD studentship at the University of Sheffield, offered in collaboration with SLB, a global leader in energy technology innovation. The project focuses on advanced geothermal systems (AGS), an emerging approach to the extraction of geothermal energy as a renewable energy source that overcomes the geographic limitations of conventional systems, enabling global scalability and accessibility. Using advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approaches, the project is aimed at advancing modelling capabilities for the prediction of energy extraction efficiency, especially focusing on improving the understanding and prediction of the complex flow phenomena, including buoyancy effects in AGS. 

The successful candidate will be part of a team working towards advancing the modelling capabilities of geothermal systems and contribute to the following objectives: 

• Investigating fluid flow and heat transfer in geothermal systems under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions relevant to AGS.
• Developing high-fidelity direct numerical simulation (DNS) models to map flow regimes and explore buoyancy-driven flow transitions.
• Improving the accuracy of thermo-hydraulic and reduced-resolution models using insights from DNS results.
• Exploring strategies of flow control to enhance heat transfer efficiency.

The successful candidate will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team at SLB Cambridge Research (SCR), part of SLB’s global network of research and engineering centres. The collaboration will include validating simulation results, refining modelling techniques, and exploring practical applications for AGS. This iCASE studentship includes a placement at SCR, offering an opportunity to apply research findings to real-world challenges in geothermal energy extraction. 

Person requirements.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with a first class or upper second-class degree in engineering, physics, applied mathematics or a related field.  A solid foundation in fluid dynamics and heat transfer, and experience with computer programming and/or CFD are desirable but not essential.

The student is expected to present their research outcomes to the project team/sponsors on a regular basis in both written and oral formats. 

Funding 

The studentship is open only to UK candidates. 

The studentship is available to start in October 2025. 

The annual tax-free stipend is at UKRI rate (£20,780 in 2025/26) plus £4,000 per year top-up for 4 years. Generous funding is also available for training, and conference and workshop attendance. 

How to apply

For further information and informal discussion please contact Professor Shuisheng He at s.he@sheffield.ac.uk .

To apply, please click the 'Apply' tab above and include your CV plus two references and indicating on your form that you are replying to this advert. 

Closing date for application: 20 May 2025 or until the position is filled.