In addition, to the two RA positions (one closes today and the other on Friday) we have now also a funded PhD position open in
Machine learning methods to manage the integration of heating systems into the wider energy system
Heat demand which has large seasonal variations and high morning peak ramp-up rates, is responsible for 44% of the total energy demand in the UK and mainly supplied through the natural gas grid. District energy systems with Seasonal Thermal Energy Storage (STES) can be affordable and more sustainable alternatives that can handle the high ramp-up rates and seasonal variations. However, existing systems are designed and operated independently from the wider energy system (electricity, cooling, industry and transport sectors), while the best solution (in terms of emissions reduction and cost) can only be found if all energy sectors are combined and coordinated. This multi-sector integration is an open challenge due to the nonlinear interactions between the different sectors as well as the significant computational complexity due to required spatial and temporal resolutions and model complexity.
In this project, the successful candidate will develop, implement and apply machine learning methods for the design and optimisation of district heating system with STES as part of the wider energy system. While the main focus is on using machine learning based surrogate models to link detailed CFD simulations with whole system models, there is scope to investigate other areas such as system control and demand/supply predictions.
The candidate will develop a wide range of skills in heating systems with STES design and machine learning methods which will be widely applicable to the candidate’s future career. The project is linked to the EPSRC funded INTEGRATE project and the PhD student will be jointly supervised by Dr Daniel Friedrich at the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh and Prof Ben Hughes at the University of Hull.
Closing date for applications: Position will remain open until filled.
Expected studentship start date: 1st October 2020 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Links:
https://www.eng.ed.ac.uk/studying/postgraduate/research/phd/machine-learning-methods-manage-integration-heating-systems-wider
