Grain Bunker Fumigation and Aeration

Optimizing design and control of post-harvest fumigation and aeration of grain storage systems using Machine Learning CFD-based models

Degree type

PhD

Closing date

1 June 2025

Campus

Launceston

Citizenship requirement

Domestic

About the research project

This research aims to develop an innovative machine learning-based tool to predict the optimal design and control systems for bulk grain fumigation and aeration, aligning with Industry 4.0 strategies. Grain stored in bunkers needs effective aeration and fumigation to maintain quality. However, changing climate conditions can make it challenging to harvest at low moisture levels, and ineffective fumigation practices have led to increased insect resistance and grain value degradation.


This project will utilise machine learning to analyze datasets from computational simulations of bunker gas distribution systems, optimizing 3-D uniformity with minimal energy inputs and capital costs. By integrating Machine Learning (ML) with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), the project aims to efficiently optimize these datasets, reducing the need for extensive and costly full-scale bunker validations.

Primary Supervisor

Meet Dr Dariush Zare

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

  • a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
  • a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
  • a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

  • Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
  • Applicants need to be competent in mathematical modelling and computation of heat transfer processes
  • Track records of peer-reviewed journal papers
  • Competency in modelling using professional software such as COMSOL and ANSYS
  • Competency in computer programing such as MATLAB or Python
  • Competency in Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modelling

Selection Criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded.  Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:

  • Applicants must have completed a Bachelor Degree (honours) in a relevant field (e.g., Food & Biosystems, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering)
  • Candidates should meet UTAS academic and English language entry requirements for the PhD
  • Applicants with a Master by research or Masters by coursework with significant research competency will be given priority in the selection process

Application process

  1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
  2. Contact Dr Dariush Zare to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
  3. In your application:
    • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
    • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
  4. Apply prior to 1 June 2025.

Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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