Experimental Validation of Generatively Designed (Adsorption) Heat Exchangers KU Leuven in United Kingdom

The Innovative Design for Energy Applications Lab (IDEAL) at KU Leuven is recruiting a PhD researcher for Experimental Validation of Generatively Designed (Adsorption) Heat Exchangers. The project is hosted within the Mechanical Engineering Department at KU Leuven and linked to EnergyVille’s sustainable energy ecosystem, offering a strong interdisciplinary environment in thermal-fluid engineering, design optimization, prototype manufacturing, and experimental validation.

The PhD combines generative design and numerical optimization with hands-on manufacturing and testing. In the first phase, the researcher will develop, manufacture, and experimentally validate generatively designed heat exchangers for energy recovery applications. Prototypes will be produced using flexible manufacturing methods such as additive manufacturing and etching, and evaluated through advanced experiments including flow visualization and thermography to assess thermal and hydraulic performance.

In the second phase, the researcher will contribute to the HEATCAP project, a Flemish university consortium focused on affordable point-source carbon capture based on adsorption technology, with a target cost below €50 per ton of CO2. Here, the PhD will focus on experimentally validating adsorption heat exchanger concepts, benchmarking design choices, and producing performance data that can guide scalable carbon capture solutions.

The position is especially relevant for candidates interested in heat exchangers, thermal-fluid systems, experimental research, and the energy transition. The lab’s research direction centers on model-based shape and topology optimization for energy components and systems, aiming to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and enable cost savings. The group collaborates with researchers and industrial partners across heat and fluid engineering, computational methods, materials, and manufacturing, creating a strong setting for impactful research.

Applicants are expected to hold a Master’s degree in engineering with a mechanical engineering or related background, with excellent study results. A background in fluid mechanics and heat transfer is required, together with experience in experimental flow and heat transfer techniques or a strong willingness to learn them. Strong English communication skills, independent research ability, and a critical mindset are important. Experience with additive manufacturing, CFD, generative design, adsorption processes, coding in Python or C++, and numerical optimization is a plus.

The appointment is a four-year doctoral scholarship, with a competitive salary and benefits such as health insurance and sports facilities. The role includes full-time employment, an intermediate evaluation after one year, excellent doctoral training through the Arenberg Doctoral School, and opportunities to publish, attend conferences, and build an international network. The starting date is flexible but should be no later than December 2026. Applications should be sent by email to Prof. Maarten Blommaert at jobs.ideal@kuleuven.be, and should include the requested personal and academic details plus an academic CV. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.