Ageing Assessment of Transformer Insulation Systems through Molecular Dynamic Simulation

The accurate assessment of the remaining lifetime of transformer insulation systems has always been a challenge faced by the transformer industry. Better understandings of the ageing mechanisms and the degradation kinetics can help interpret the ageing results obtained from the experiments as well as to identify potential new ageing markers.

Computational chemical modelling which also called Molecular Dynamic (MD) simulation is becoming increasingly popular across science and engineering fields to study microscopic processes that cannot be visualised or investigated through experiments. Such chemical modelling approaches facilitate the study of individual ageing mechanisms to identify the primary source of various chemical markers. This PhD project aims to study the degradation mechanisms of cellulosic paper insulation and identify potential new ageing indicators through the molecular dynamic simulation of liquid-solid insulation systems.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, first class honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline. Applicants must be able to demonstrate their research experience through contribution to international journal or conference publications.

Before you apply

Please send your CV and detailed transcripts of all your previous and current university studies to Prof. Zhongdong Wang ([email protected]) and Dr. Shanika Matharage ([email protected]) before you make an application.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-fap

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing [email protected].

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).