A Research Studentship is available to support a 3-year PhD, commencing as soon as possible, which will address the use of best-practice modelling and analysis for assessing the efficiency and cost of smart interventions on existing and future regional distribution networks. The research will form part of the FALCON project, led by Western Power Distribution plc, with support from the Ofgem Low Carbon Networks Fund.

This project aims to use network trials and the development of a Scenario Investment Model (SIM) to investigate the effectiveness and cost of smart intervention on the distribution systems to cope with increased demand, reduce wasted energy, and handle greater fluctuations in supply associated with increasing alternative renewable energy generation; and hence deliver customer benefits.

The student will investigate the use of the most appropriate computer modelling schemes within the SIM, and consider deployment of latest multi-dimensional analysis methods to visualise resulting complex interdependencies in the most easily accessible manner. They will then use the SIM to research alternative smart grid scenarios, and investigate the possibility of developing a self-learning approach to optimising these for multiple objectives.

The work will also contribute to broader collaborative Cranfield Complexity Science Research Centre activities. We presently have a number of activities going forwards, including an EPSRC-funded CASCADE project in collaboration with De Montfort University on related complexity analysis of distributed power supply for future greener energy use, and an EPSRC DTA studentship focused on the application of multi-objective optimisation methods to such complex engineering systems. The student will be expected to interact with the researchers involved, as well as the wider FALCON Project team, and should be prepared to work for some periods away from Cranfield.

Entry Requirements

Funding

A full stipend will be available at standard EPSRC rates, inclusive of fees for UK and EU applicants.

How to apply

Applications should be made via our website: www.cranfield.ac.uk/soe/applyresearch by Monday 15th April 2013.

Applicants should also send their CV to:
Professor A.M. Savill
Head of Power & Propulsion Sciences,
Department of Power & Propulsion
School of Engineering, Cranfield University,
Cranfield, Bedfordshire, MK43 0AL

E: mark.savill@cranfield.ac.uk