Funding

Funded (UK/EU and international students)

Project code

SMAP8420923

Start dates

February 2024

Application deadline

1 September 2023

Applications are invited for a fully funded three year PhD to commence in February 2024. 

The PhD will be based in the School of Mathematics and Physics in the Faculty of Technology and will be supervised by Dr Jamie Foster, Dr Smita Sahu and Dr Andrew Burbanks. 

Candidates applying for this project may be eligible to compete for one of a small number of bursaries available. Successful applicants will receive a bursary to cover tuition fees for three years and a stipend in line with the UKRI rate (£18,622 for 2023/24). Bursary recipients will also receive a £1,500 p.a. for project costs/consumables.

 

The work on this project could involve:

  • Developing theoretical physics-based mathematical models of coffee brewing
  • Analysing the differential equations that arise using a combination of asymptotic and numerical methods
  • Collaborating with experimentalists to compare model predictions with experimental data 

The overall aim of this project is to develop physics-based mathematical models of the coffee brewing process, and to then use these models to develop implementable strategies to improve brewing efficiency and reproducibility. We shall focus primarily on espresso because it is both the most scientifically-rich, and the most industrially-relevant brewing style. The first stage of the project will be to develop novel physical models that describe the relevant physical processes, including: fluid flow through the granular bed of coffee grounds, the transport of solubles (e.g. caffeine) both within the coffee grains and once dissolved in the liquid, the dissolution process itself, the rearrangement of the grains during flow, and the heat transport. The initial models will be relatively complex and so the second stage of the project will be to systematically simplify the model using asymptotic methods (multiple scales homogenisation and matched asymptotic expansions). Third, we shall develop numerical methods to solve the resulting reduced models. The fourth stage will be conducted in collaboration with experimental partners; we shall iteratively refine and validate the models by comparison with experiment. Finally, we shall use the models to identify useful alterations to standard brewing practices that give baristas better control, thereby allowing them to make drinks more consistently, or more efficiently. This has knock-on effects in both monetary terms (more efficient brewing allows companies to save money) and in terms of decreasing the burden on agriculture which is rapidly increasing due to climate change and consumer demand.

Entry requirements

You'll need a good first degree from an internationally recognised university (minimum upper second class or equivalent, depending on your chosen course) or a Master’s degree in an appropriate subject. In exceptional cases, we may consider equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications. English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

The ideal candidate would have knowledge of the differential equations of fluid mechanics, would know how to analyse these equations using asymptotic methods, and would be able to solve differential equations numerically (using python or similar). It would also be desirable, although non-essential, for candidates to have knowledge of solid mechanics, heat transfer and the chemistry of dissolution.

How to apply

We encourage you to contact Dr Jamie Foster (jamie.foster@port.ac.uk) to discuss your interest before you apply, quoting the project code SMAP8420923.

When you are ready to apply, you can use our online application form . Make sure you submit a personal statement, proof of your degrees and grades, details of two referees, proof of your English language proficiency and an up-to-date CV.  Our ‘How to Apply’ page offers further guidance on the PhD application process.
 

If you want to be considered for this funded PhD opportunity you must quote project code SMAP8420923 when applying.