PhD Scholarship in AI Controlled Combustion Engine - Fuel Ratings

We need to reduce climate impact by replacing fossil fuel. In this PhD project you can help with the green transition by enabling widespread use of alternative fuels. As biofuels and e-fuels will be more expensive, at least initially, it is of paramount importance to use them with the highest possible efficiency. Traditional Spark Ignition and Compression Ignition Internal Combustion Engines, ICE, have been optimized for fossil fuels for more than 140 years but the new fuels have properties that can enable a more efficient operation. Advanced combustion processes like HCCI, SACI and PPC will be used in this project. The overall goal of the project is to use AI to optimize combustion in real time and select which combustion mode is the best at each instance. 

This part of the three-student project is focusing on understanding fuel auto ignition behavior using not only octane number rating but also HCCI numbers and blending octane numbers. 

Responsibilities and qualifications

The work will be focusing on rating hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, ethanol and other bio and e-fuels in terms of auto ignition behavior. The main hardware used is the standardized CFR-engine used for regular Octane Numbers but modified to enable HCCI type of combustion. Also, SACI and potentially PPC combustion will be evaluated. The work is experimental in nature operating a real engine in an ICE lab. 

Preferably, you have: 

• A basic understanding of combustion and engines
• Knowledge of advanced combustion concepts is a merit but not a prerequisite
• Practical experience of engine operation in a lab is a merit.  

But the most important qualification is an eagerness to learn the mysteries of fuel-combustion-engine interaction. 

However, you must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

Salary and appointment terms 

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. 

The period of employment is 3 years. The expected starting date is 1 April 2025. 

Application procedure 

To apply, please read the full job advertisement by clicking the 'Apply' button

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