Funding

Funded (UK students only)

Project code

SMAP9250724

Department

School of Mathematics and Physics

Start dates

October 2024

Application deadline

26 July 2024

Applications are invited for a fully-funded three year PhD to commence in October 2024. 

The PhD will be based in the Faculty of Technology, and will be supervised by Professor Jamie Foster, Dr Andres Galvis and Dr James Burridge.

The successful applicant will receive a bursary to cover tuition fees for three years and a stipend in line with the UKRI rate (£19,237 for 2024/25). 

The work on this project could involve:

  • Developing physics-based mathematical models of lithium-ion battery operation that account for degradation
  • Developing ultra-fast neural network solvers for the differential equations that arise 
  • Collaborating with industrial partners to compare model predictions with experimental data and perform parameter inference

The overall aim of this project is to develop physics-based models of lithium-ion batteries,  to develop ultra fast solvers for these models, and to then deploy these solvers to treat inference problems that are of interest to our industrial partner. The first stage of the project will be to develop novel models that describe not only normal battery operation but also how they degrade over time. The resulting models are expected to be relatively time-consuming to solve using classical numerical methods, thus the second stage of the project will be to leverage neural networks. Once trained these will serve as ultra-fast surrogate models running many times faster than any classical solvers. Third, we shall develop methods for solving inference problems (e.g. parameter estimation) that require the extreme speed of the surrogate solvers. The work will be carried out in collaboration with industrial partners. The tools will be used to solve real-world problems relevant to the lithium-ion battery industry.

Entry requirements

You'll need a good first degree from an internationally recognised university (minimum upper second class or equivalent, depending on your chosen course) or a Master’s degree in an appropriate subject. In exceptional cases, we may consider equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications.

English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

How to apply

We’d encourage you to contact Professor Jamie Foster (jamie.foster@port.ac.uk) to discuss your interest before you apply, quoting the project code.

When you are ready to apply, you can use our online application form. Make sure you submit a personal statement, proof of your degrees and grades, details of two referees, proof of your English language proficiency and an up-to-date CV.  Our ‘How to Apply’ page offers further guidance on the PhD application process.
 

If you want to be considered for this funded PhD opportunity you must quote project code SMAP9250724 when applying. Please note that email applications are not accepted.