Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 June 2025
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
Increasing power generation from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind has created a need for deep energy storage. Pumped storage hydropower offers deep energy storage with a high round-trip efficiency and high power output. This is very useful in the rapidly developing energy market. Tasmania is well positioned in Australia to deliver hydropower and pumped hydro storage solutions with an abundance of water resources and suitable geography. An essential feature of all pumped storage hydropower systems is the capability to store and discharge water efficiently to minimise hydraulic losses. Advanced hydrodynamic design is critical in providing a responsive system for switching between generating and pumping modes while avoiding undesirable effects such as free surface vortices, surge waves, and unsteady machine loading. This project will use the advanced capabilities of computation fluid dynamics to simulate and optimise pumped-storage system hydraulics. Models will be developed to include dynamic effects in both closed and open channel flows, including flows through the inlet screens. This project will strengthen the local energy sector and assist in addressing a significant challenge for the Australian power sector.
Primary Supervisor
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
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.
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact A/Prof Alan Henderson to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- 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.
- 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.
Apply now Explore other projects
Why the University of Tasmania?
Worldwide reputation for research excellence
Quality supervision and support
