Doctoral Student

PhD Position at BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus

Project Title:

Development of a Digital-Twin and Laboratory Prototype of a Green, Non-Conventional Air-Conditioning and Heat Pump System Using a Super-Adsorbent

About the Position

Applications are invited from highly motivated candidates with a strong background in thermal sciences, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, or chemistry for a fully funded PhD position.

This project focuses on the development of a next-generation green air-conditioning and heat pump system based on a super-adsorbent coated heat exchanger. The work will combine mathematical modelling, simulation, and experimental validation to demonstrate improved performance and high coefficient of performance (COP).

Supervision

• Prof. Mrinal Jagirdar (PI, Mechanical Engineering)
• Prof. K. Bhargav Kumar (PI, Mathematics)
• Prof. Himanshu Aggarwal (Collaborator, Chemistry)

Research Scope

The selected candidate will work on:

• Mathematical modelling of coupled heat and mass transfer
• Design and fabrication of a desiccant coated heat exchanger prototype
• Experimental testing and validation against conventional systems

Desired Background

Candidates should have M.E./M.Tech/MSc (or BE/BTech/BSc with an exceptional track-record) in Mechanical Engineering or Chemistry or an allied stream

What Makes This Project Interesting

• Focus on green cooling technologies (low-GWP alternatives to vapor compression)
• Integration of digital twin + hardware prototype (rare combination)
• Strong interdisciplinary collaboration (mechanical + math + chemistry)
• Potential for high-impact publications and patents

How to Apply

Apply using this form:

https://lnkd.in/gJNWQmBP

Apply by 8th of September 2026. Email may only be sent to [HIDDEN TEXT] in case of a query. Please do not send applications via email.

Skills Required
Chemistry, Heat Transfer, Simulation, Fluid Mechanics, Mathematical Modelling