The objective of this project is to develop mathematical equations to predict (model) the strength of a select cellular structure based on simple beam theories. Once such physics-based equations are developed, they will be examined by fabricating (3D printing using advanced 3D printers at UVic) and testing them in collaboration with colleagues in the department of mechanical engineering. The student will develop skills in modelling, fabrication, digital image correlation, and material testing under the supervision of graduate students in the lab and potential co-supervision of a professor in the department of mechanical engineering . Additionally, the student will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with finite element modeling if interested.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Bio-inspired lattice structures are materials/structures characterized by their unique property for their lightweight. Their superior performance and unique deformation mechanism are often attributed to their architecture, which can include various geometries and microstructural features, and unique topologies. Bio-inspired materials exhibit enhanced mechanical properties such as energy absorption and fracture resistance, making them valuable in various sectors such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and biomedical.
Student roles: The student will develop equations for describing the behaviour of cellular structures, then fabricate and test bio-inspired cellular structures under tensile and compression loads. A 3D FE model of the specimens will be created in collaboration with a graduate student to check the accuracy of the developed equations. The student will compare their test results with model predictions with the help of the graduate student and the supervisors. At the end, the student is asked to write a summary report based on their findings.
Skills required: The student should have strong background in solid mechanics and mechanics of materials. Being familiar with modelling or fabrication/testing or using commercial finite element software (e.g. ANSYS, ABAQUS, SAP 2000) is an asset.
2. Adaptive Robotic Machining of Wood for Sustainable Construction
This project explores the use of adaptive robotic machining for processing wood as a highly variable, anisotropic, and moisture-sensitive natural material. Traditional CNC machining methods struggle with the unpredictable behavior of wood, resulting in material waste, tool wear, and surface defects. Our goal is to develop intelligent machining strategies that allow industrial robots to dynamically adapt to local grain direction, density, and surface features in real time.
The student will contribute to the development and validation of a robotic testbed equipped with vision and force sensors. The intern will assist in sensor calibration, data acquisition, and development of machine learning-based algorithms to guide real-time toolpath adjustments. Depending on the student's background, they may also engage in digital modeling or simulation of cutting forces in variable wood geometries.
This project integrates mechanical engineering, computer science, and materials science with broader goals in sustainable manufacturing, digital construction using renewable resources, architecture, and sculpture. It offers hands-on experience with advanced robotic systems and introduces students to interdisciplinary methods in smart manufacturing.
The project objectives are
1- Develop robotic toolpath strategies adaptive to local wood variation
2- Integrate sensing (e.g., force, vision) to detect material features in real time
3- Assist in data collection and algorithm testing on a physical robotic platform
4- Contribute to performance evaluation through machining trials and data analysis
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Our research focuses on the intersection of dynamic systems and advanced manufacturing, with a particular emphasis on machining processes involving complex or variable materials. A key theme at the Dynamics and Digital Manufacturing (DDM) lab of UVic is the development of intelligent, physics-informed models and control strategies for robotic and CNC-based fabrication systems. This includes work on real-time monitoring, adaptive toolpath planning, and hybrid data-driven/physics-based modeling techniques.
Student roles: Primary responsibilities will include: - Assist in setting up and calibrating sensors (e.g., force, vibration, vision, or acoustic) to monitor cutting conditions and detect wood variability. - Support the execution of machining experiments on a KUKA robotic platform and collect performance data under varying material conditions. - Contribute to the programming and refinement of robotic toolpaths using CAD/CAM tools or custom scripts to respond to material features. - Analyze sensor data to identify correlations between material properties and machining response; assist in validating adaptive control algorithms. - Work closely with graduate students and faculty in the lab, contribute to research discussions, and prepare reports or visualizations summarizing key findings.
The role is ideal for a motivated student with foundational knowledge in robotics, mechanical systems, or mechatronics, and an interest in sustainable manufacturing and digital fabrication. Depending on the student’s strengths, tasks may be more focused on experimental work, programming, or modeling
Skills required: Ideal candidates will have a background in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, or computer science. Experience in any of the following is an asset:
- MATLAB, Python, or C++ programming - Sensor integration (force, vibration, vision) - CAD/CAM tools or robotic control
3. Additive manufacturing of multifunctioncal and hybrid polymer nanocomposites for aerospace applications ad
Supervisor: Emna Helal
University: École de Technologie Supérieure (Montréal campus)
Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are gaining increasing attention as multifunctional, high-performance, and lightweight materials with strong potential for high-tech industries such as aerospace, where structural efficiency, durability, and advanced functionality are critical. Among their promising applications, energy harvesting, smart sensing and functionally graded materials are particularly relevant for the development of next-generation intelligent systems.
In structural health monitoring for example, conductive PNCs based on flexible or thermoplastic elastomers offer a compelling alternative to conventional metal-foil strain gauges. Their intrinsic flexibility, high sensitivity, and broad detection range make them ideal for integration into smart aerospace structures and wearable technologies. Similarly, PNCs show strong potential in energy applications—such as piezoresistive or thermoelectric systems—where lightweight, conformable, and scalable materials are needed.
PNCs are typically fabricated by incorporating nano-fillers—such as carbon nanotubes, or graphene nanoplatelets—into polymer matrices via techniques like solvent mixing, melt mixing, or in-situ polymerization. Among these, melt mixing is particularly attractive due to its scalability, environmental friendliness, and compatibility with industrial processing methods.
In parallel, the rise of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies has opened new avenues for designing complex, integrated PNC-based components. AM, especially extrusion-based processes, enables the digital fabrication of tailored functional materials with reduced waste and energy consumption, aligning with circular economy principles. However, the development of printable and flexible PNCs remains limited and understudied.
This project aims to address this gap by developing PNCs through AM. The objective is to optimize their microstructure to achieve good dispersion and controlled spatial distribution of the nanoparticles, investigate their rheological behavior to assess processability, and evaluate their printability via extrusion-based additive manufacturing. The resulting materials will be designed for high-performance sensing and energy-related applications in demanding sectors such as aerospace.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research expertise is related to the development of multifunctional polymer nanocomposites, the understanding of process-microstructure-property relationships and the control of morphology during processing. My current research focuses on the development of advanced polymer nanocomposites and hierarchically structured micro-nanocomposites based on sustainable and recycled polymers and enriched with graphene and 2D materials, for emerging applications in energy harvesting and storage, construction, electronic packaging, light transportation and aerospace.
Student roles: The intern student or the 2 intern students to be involved in this project will participate and will gain knowledge in different aspects related to polymer science and specefically related to composites/nanocomposites and extrusion-based additive manufacturing. The student/students will participate in the following activities: - Melt compounding and filament extrusion of electrically conductive polymer nanocomposites. -Electrical conductivity measurements and evaluation of the electrical percolation threshold. - Rheological, thermal and mechanical characterization of the fabricated nanocomposites by respectively: melt flow index, rotational rheometry, thermal gravimetric analysis and tensile/flexural/impact resistance tests. - Microstructural characterization of the resulting nanocomposites by microscopy and correlation between macroscopic properties, microstructure and conductive nanofillers dispersion state. - Analysis of the different characterization results and selection of optimized nanocomposites compositions to achieve better processability and printability. - 3D printing of selected nanocomposites and studying the printing conditions. - Working in close collaboration with a doctoral student and another undergraduate intern. -Presenting occasionally the main findings of his/her research project in group meetings.
Skills required: - Strong background in materials science and mechanical engineering - Good background in polymer science as well as composites/nanocomposites materials is an asset - Good knowledge of polymer characterization techniques is an asset - Good analysis skills - Critical thinking - Ability to work independantly and in collaboration with other team members and in multicultural inclusive research environment
4. Advanced Coatings and Thin Films for Harsh Environment Applications
This project investigates advanced coatings and thin films designed for harsh-environment applications. The student will contribute to experimental studies involving coating fabrication, corrosion testing, electrochemical characterization, and evaluation of materials' durability under aggressive operating conditions.
Activities may include thin-film deposition, microscopy, surface analysis, corrosion measurements, and interpretation of degradation mechanisms in advanced coatings and nanostructured materials. The project aims to improve coating performance, durability, and resistance to environmentally induced degradation.
The intern will receive training in advanced materials processing, corrosion science, and electrochemical characterization techniques within a collaborative research environment.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Research in corrosion engineering, advanced coatings, and thin-film materials for harsh-environment applications. The work focuses on degradation mechanisms, protective coatings, and structure–property relationships in advanced surface-engineered materials.
Student roles: The student will support laboratory experiments, sample preparation, coating deposition, electrochemical and corrosion testing, microscopy and characterization work, literature review, data interpretation, and report preparation. The intern will participate in collaborative research discussions and gain practical experience in advanced coatings research.
Skills required: Background in materials engineering, corrosion engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields. Interest in laboratory research, coatings, electrochemistry, and advanced materials is preferred.
5. Amélioration de la productivité et de la qualité de l’air dans les entreprises d’usinage / Improving Productivity and Shop floor Air Quality for Machining industries
Supervisor: Victor SONGMENE
University: École de Technologie Supérieure (Montréal campus)
Environmental requirements and occupational health and safety regulations are becoming more and more severe. At the same time industries must continue to produce quality parts at competitive prices. To do this, production strategies must be redesigned to become competitive and safe. As part of the proposed project, the intern will have to:
• Design machining strategies and technological solutions to improve productivity, quality of parts and air quality;
• Manufacture and test prototypes to prove the concepts selected and/or experimentally demonstrate the effects of the proposed strategies on the performance indicators of the machining process studied.
• Produce a report
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: For over twenty years we have been working to improve the machinability of materials and the machining practices in industry. Machining is a source of pollution (used fluid, harmful aerosols and particles). The generated fine particles and nanoparticles represent a danger to health. We study the generation of these particles during machining in order to reduce them at the source. This research aims to study and optimize the machining of dusty materials to make it competitive and safe through the development of means of capturing and reducing dust at the source or machining conditions optimization.
Student roles: Depending on the skills and background of the selected student, he will be asked to participate in the design of technological solutions including the modification of the tooling, to optimize the machining conditions or to study the effects of the machining parameters and strategies on productivity, part quality and particle emissions (nanoparticles and fine particles). He will have to do computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing, machine tool operation, parts inspection, data collection and analysis. In addition, he will have to: • review the literature on existing concepts and solutions; • plan and run experiments; • analyze data; • prepare and present the results of his work using MS-office, write a report and / or initiate the writing of a scientific article. • participate in laboratory group meetings and present results.
Skills required: The required skills must include two to three of the following: • Design & manufacture; • Tooling design; • Planning and conducting of experiments; • Data analysis: statistics, ANOVA; • Writing reports and / or articles; • Work on machine tools; • Metrology and inspection; • Characterization of materials; • Teamwork.
6. Assessment of Morphological Approach in Estimating the Elastic Properties of Sustainable Composites Using Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
To estimate the effective properties of highly-filled sustainable composites, the student employs a specific micromechanical equations derived previously from the principles of the "morphological approach" (MA) by an international team of experts in Canada and France. Although such equations have been derived in the past, the validity range of such equations requires rigorous analysis against numerical (finite element) reference solutions. Hence, the accuracy of such mathematical equations in estimating the effective mechanical properties of an idealized unit cell of a GLT beam will be examined for a range of resin’s shear moduli that are commonly used in manufacturing of such beams. This assessment is conducted by comparing analytical estimates with numerical reference solutions obtained through full-field finite element (FE) simulations in ABAQUS.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Strand-based green composites are made from natural fibre (e.g. wood or bamboo) or synthetic FRP strands bonded with a minimal amount of resin (a thermoset polymer). As the industry seeks to replace synthetic resins containing toxic chemicals with bio-based alternatives, it becomes crucial to develop reliable equations for predicting the mechanical properties of various strand-based composites. Developing a set of design equations enable sustainable composite manufactures to accelerate the design of durable, environmentally friendly materials for the next generation of green structures.
Student roles: It is expected that the student develops technical skills in creating and running FE simulations, writing computer scripts in python, and developing macros in Excel.
Skills required: Prior experience in using finite element analysis computer software such as ABAQUS and being familiar with python and excel are required.
7. Autonomous Mobile Robot for Indoor Environmental Testing and Synchronized Spatial Data Prediction
Mobile robots are increasingly used to map indoor environmental conditions such as temperature, CO2, humidity, and airflow in buildings. However, a fundamental limitation persists: because the robot measures one location at a time as it moves, the data collected at different points are temporally offset. This makes it impossible to obtain a true simultaneous spatial snapshot of the environment, a critical requirement for evaluating thermal comfort, controlling HVAC systems in real time, and validating building performance simulation (BPS) models. This project aims to overcome this limitation by developing an AI/machine learning-based algorithm that uses the robot’s time-offset data to accurately predict synchronized temperatures at multiple locations simultaneously.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: This research focuses on autonomous mobile robotics for indoor environmental monitoring and building performance assessment. The lab specializes in thermodynamics, thermal comfort, indoor air quality (IAQ), and climate-resilient building systems (HVAC). A key challenge is that mobile robots collect environmental data sequentially across space and time, yet accurate evaluation of thermal comfort and HVAC control requires spatially synchronized, simultaneous measurements. The lab integrates robotics, AI/machine learning, and building science to develop predictive algorithms and real-time visualization platforms for smart building management and energy efficiency.
Student roles: The intern will work under the direct supervision of the principal investigator and collaborate with the lab’s research team. Responsibilities are divided across three core tasks aligned with the project’s milestones: Algorithm Development, Environmental Test, and Real-Time Visualization Platform.
Skills required: The ideal candidate is a graduate student in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field, with a strong background in at least two of the following areas: programming (Python, MATLAB, or C++); machine learning or data science; robotics (ROS, path planning, sensor integration); building science or HVAC systems; and data visualization. Experience with time-series analysis or spatiotemporal modeling is an asset. Good communication skills in English or French and the ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary team are required.
8. Battery thermal management system for electric vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) become very popular in recent days. Electric vehicles require no fossil fuel, therefore, do not emit any harmful exhaust gas to the environment. The main power source of the EV is a battery pack which typically contains a large number of rechargeable cylindrical lithium-ion batteries. During operation, these batteries need to be maintained within certain temperature range (the safe temperature limit). Battery pack operating over the safe temperature limit may damage the batteries and cause fire and operating under the safe temperature limit may cause unnecessary discharge. Therefore, thermal management of battery pack become extremely essential. Both active thermal management (e.g., liquid and air cooling) and passive thermal management (e.g., phase change material) are tested for EVs. In this project, candidate will get an opportunity to work with a hybrid and reversible battery thermal management system. The system will include battery pack embedded inside phase change material and connected to thermoelectric refrigerator/heat pump system. Phase change material will act as a temporary storage for heat at nearly constant temperature, while thermoelectric refrigerator/heat pump remove or supply heat to the phase change material to maintain the safe temperature limit.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: I have been involved in academic and industrial research and development works over last 10 years. The overall theme of my research has been and continues to be clean energy conversion mechanisms modeling and related hardware development. In particular, the focus of my most recent research is to develop and further advance vibration based MPG (Micro Power Generator), therporaoustic (thermal-porous-acoustics) system, waste heat recovery system, and novel low-environmental impact cooling system. Other areas of interests include (a) thermoacoustic engine and refrigeration systems, (b) flexible power drive and clean energy conversion mechanisms, (c) thermal management of electronic and building.
Student roles: The student who will engage this project will Prepare a literature review to be familiar with battery thermal management research works. Join a thermal design and analysis short course. Design battery thermal management system, perform energy input, output, and storage analyses Modify an existing prototype for experimental measurement Validate the analytical model and experimental work. Write technical reports of the obtained results.
Skills required: The student must have a basic knowledge of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and energy conversion process. Students from Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering in or beyond the third and fourth year are applicable for this project. In addition, a good knowledge in COMSOL, Matlab, and Microsoft Excel is a plus point.
9. Bioinspired Hybrid Surfaces Combining Femtosecond Laser Texturing and Low-Energy Coatings for aerospace application
Supervisor: gelareh momen
University: École de Technologie Supérieure (Montréal campus)
Active anti-icing technologies such as electrothermal heaters and chemical deicing fluids remain the industry standard, yet they impose significant energy penalties, add system complexity, and contribute to environmental burden without addressing aerodynamic losses. This disconnects between protection and performance motivates the search for integrated surface solutions capable of responding to both challenges simultaneously.
Passive approaches based on superhydrophobic coatings or bioinspired laser-textured surfaces have individually demonstrated encouraging results. However, their development in isolation has exposed clear limitations. Coating-only systems tend to degrade under the mechanical abrasion, ultraviolet exposure, and repeated freeze–thaw cycling inherent to operational aerospace environments, while texture-only surfaces lack the surface chemistry required to fully suppress ice nucleation and adhesion. The result is a persistent gap between laboratory demonstrations and field-durable multifunctional performance on aerospace-grade substrates.
Drawing inspiration from the microgeometry of sharkskin denticles, this project proposes the design and systematic evaluation of hybrid surfaces that couple femtosecond-laser-engraved sinusoidal biomimetic microstructures with functional anti-icing coatings. The laser defined topography targets aerodynamic drag reduction through near-wall flow control, while a conformal PDMS-based topcoat provides ice phobic functionality the two mechanisms designed to complement rather than compromise one another.
This integrated strategy is expected to reduce dependence on active de-icing systems, lower energy consumption, and advance the development of safer and more sustainable aerospace surfaces in alignment with global net-zero aviation objectives.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: This research focuses on the development of advanced bioinspired hybrid surfaces for aerospace-grade metallic substrates. It integrates femtosecond laser fabricated biomimetic textures with functional anti-icing coatings. The project lies at the intersection of laser microfabrication, surface engineering, icephobics, and aerodynamics. Inspired by the microstructural geometry of sharkskin riblets, the proposed surfaces aim to simultaneously reduce aerodynamic drag and mitigate ice formation and adhesion, addressing two of the most critical performance and safety challenges in aerospace. Carried out under the co-supervision of Prof. Gelareh Momen (ÉTS) and Prof. Anne Kietzig (McGill University), this work combines expertise in anti-icing coatings, ultrafast laser
Student roles: The student will actively participate in the fabrication, characterization, and evaluation of bioinspired hybrid surfaces for anti-icing and drag reduction. The main tasks include:
Femtosecond laser machining of shark-skin-inspired sinusoidal microstructures
Deposition and curing of functional anti-icing coatings onto laser-textured substrates
Surface characterization using SEM, AFM, confocal microscopy, and contact-angle goniometry to assess morphology, roughness, and wettability
Ice adhesion testing and freezing delay experiments under controlled sub-zero conditions
Durability evaluation under freeze–thaw cycling, abrasion, and UV exposure
Data analysis, interpretation, and technical report writing
Skills required: The ideal candidate should be an undergraduate student in materials engineering, engineering physics, chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials engineering. Preferred qualifications include:
Background in fluid mechanics, heat transfer, or materials science
Familiarity with surface engineering, thin film coatings, or materials characterization techniques
Basic understanding of wettability, tribology, or ice phobic materials.
Familiarity with laboratory techniques and materials characterization
Interest in laser manufacturing, nanotechnology, or bioinspired surface design
Experience with or curiosity toward laboratory instrumentation such as SEM, AFM, profilometry, or contact-angle goniometry
Ability to analyze experimental data and communicate results
10. CFD Analysis of Green Firebreaks for Smoke Dispersion and Heat Mitigation in the Wildland–Urban Interface (WUI)
Supervisor: Dahai Qi
University: Université de Sherbrooke
Location: Sherbrooke, Québec
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engg-Environmental, Engineering, Engg-Systems and Technology
Wildfires pose an increasing risk to buildings and human health, particularly through exposure to radiant heat and smoke. While green firebreaks are recognized as a promising nature-based solution for wildfire risk mitigation, their specific design parameters remain insufficiently quantified at the building scale.
This project aims to systematically evaluate the efficiency of green firebreaks and investigate the influence of key design parameters on fire behavior and smoke dispersion. We utilize the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) to conduct a series of numerical simulations representing building-scale scenarios under controlled wind conditions. The study analyzes various parameters, including vegetation distribution pattern, density, width, horizontal distance, crown base height (CBH), moisture content (MC), and location.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The research focuses on evaluating and optimizing green firebreaks as nature-based solutions for wildfire risk mitigation. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), specifically the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), I investigate how different vegetation parameters impact fire behavior, radiant heat flux, and smoke dispersion around buildings. The object is to quantify these critical design parameters at the building scale to better protect structures and human health from the escalating threats of wildfires.
Student roles: Primary responsibilities will include setting up and running building-scale wildfire scenarios using the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) under various controlled wind conditions. The intern will systematically adjust and test key green firebreak design parameters across different simulation cases, specifically altering the vegetation's distribution pattern, density, width, horizontal distance, crown base height, moisture content, and physical location. Following the simulation phase, the student will be responsible for using the FDS software and conducting ANOVA data analysis. This involves calculating and comparing critical response variables around the modeled buildings, including soot density and radiant heat flux. The student will also help synthesize these analytical findings to evaluate the efficiency of various configurations, directly contributing to the development of optimal green firebreak designs for wildfire smoke mitigation and building protection in WUI environments.
Skills required: The student should ideally have a background in fire safety engineering, environmental engineering, or computational fluid mechanics. Experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, specifically the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), is highly desirable to conduct the numerical simulations. Additionally, the student must possess strong data analysis skills to process and interpret simulation outputs, such as time-averaged soot density and radiant heat flux. Familiarity with statistical analysis to evaluate the significance of different variables is also a strong plus.
11. CFD Modeling and Optimization of Geomaterial-Based Thermal Energy Storage Systems
Supervisor: Leyla Amiri
University: Université de Sherbrooke
Location: Sherbrooke, Québec
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engg-Materials, Engg-Metallurgical, Engg-Mining, Engg-Systems and Technology, Engineering
This project focuses on the optimization and sensitivity analysis of rock-based thermal energy storage systems using different geomaterials and advanced CFD modeling. Thermal energy storage is a promising solution for improving the flexibility of renewable energy systems and reducing dependence on fossil fuels in buildings and industrial applications. However, the performance of these systems strongly depends on the thermophysical properties of the storage material, the geometry of the storage unit, the airflow distribution, and the operating conditions.
The intern will contribute to the development and analysis of numerical models for packed-bed thermal energy storage systems. Different geomaterials, such as natural rocks or recycled mineral-based materials, will be investigated and compared based on their thermal conductivity, heat capacity, density, porosity, pressure drop, and thermal performance. Advanced CFD models will be used to study heat transfer, flow distribution, thermal stratification, and energy storage/recovery efficiency.
A key objective of the project is to perform sensitivity analyses to identify the most influential design and operating parameters. These may include particle size, bed porosity, inlet velocity, charging and discharging temperature, storage geometry, and material properties. Depending on the student’s background, the work may also include parametric simulations, data analysis, reduced-order modeling, or optimization using Python, MATLAB, or other numerical tools.
The expected outcome is to provide design guidelines for improving the performance of geomaterial-based thermal energy storage systems and to support the development of efficient, low-cost, and scalable solutions for net-zero buildings and renewable energy integration.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on multiphysics modeling, optimization, and experimental analysis of thermal energy storage systems for renewable energy integration and industrial decarbonization. I develop advanced numerical models to study fluid flow and heat transfer in porous and packed-bed media, with applications in buildings, greenhouses, mining, and high-temperature energy storage. My work combines CFD modeling, thermodynamic analysis, and sensitivity studies to improve the design and operation of rock-based thermal energy storage systems using different geomaterials. The goal is to develop efficient, scalable, and economically viable storage solutions for net-zero energy systems.
Student roles: The student will contribute to the numerical modeling, sensitivity analysis, and optimization of geomaterial-based thermal energy storage systems. Depending on their background and interest, their role may include:
• Developing or improving CFD models for packed-bed thermal energy storage systems; • Studying the impact of different geomaterials on heat transfer, pressure drop, and storage efficiency; • Performing parametric and sensitivity analyses to identify the most influential design and operating parameters; • Comparing different storage configurations, particle sizes, porosities, inlet conditions, and charging/discharging strategies; • Using MATLAB, Python, or other numerical tools for data analysis, post-processing, and optimization; • Reviewing scientific literature related to rock-based thermal energy storage, geomaterials, and CFD modeling; • Preparing technical reports, figures, and presentations to communicate the main findings.
The student may also contribute to the interpretation of experimental data if available during the internship. The project will provide an opportunity to work at the intersection of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, numerical simulation, material selection, and renewable energy integration. The final objective is to support the development of improved design guidelines for efficient and scalable thermal energy storage systems.
Skills required: Applicants should have a background in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, chemical engineering, energy systems, or a related field. Knowledge of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and numerical modeling is highly desirable. Experience with CFD, finite volume or finite element methods, MATLAB, Python, or similar tools would be an asset. The student should be motivated to work on multidisciplinary research involving thermal energy storage, geomaterials, and renewable energy systems. Good analytical skills, scientific curiosity, and the ability to communicate results through reports and presentations are expected.
This research develops a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model using ANSYS Fluent to simulate airflow, contaminant transport, and thermal conditions in an underground hard rock mine. Unlike traditional network-based ventilation methods, CFD resolves three-dimensional flow fields throughout mine workings, capturing recirculation zones, fan-driven jet mixing, and the dispersal of diesel particulate matter, blasting fumes, and geothermal heat.
The model is calibrated and validated against field measurements collected from the mine site, including air velocity, gas concentrations, and temperature data. Parametric studies examine the influence of fan placement, auxiliary ducting, and tunnel geometry on ventilation performance. The outcomes provide mine engineers with a high-fidelity simulation tool to optimize air distribution, support regulatory compliance, and improve worker safety in deep hard rock environments.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Focusing on the interface between energy and mining engineering, I aim to tackle today’s climate and energy challenges by decarbonizing energy systems in mines. Research in my lab
develops and implements clean energy technology, accelerating towards a sustainable future for the mining industry. It advances the areas of mine electrification, mine ventilation,
heating and cooling, renewable energy, and energy storage.
Student roles: Milestone 1: Literature review and definition of model scope, geometry, and simulation objectives. Milestone 2: Field data collection at the mine site, including air velocity, temperature, and gas concentration measurements. Milestone 3: CFD model development in ANSYS Fluent, including tunnel geometry meshing and boundary condition setup. Milestone 4: Model validation against field measurements and refinement of mesh and simulation parameters. Milestone 5: Parametric studies on ventilation configurations and development of optimization recommendations.
Skills required: - Heat Transfer (or related courses) - Fluid Mechanics (or related courses) - HVAC or Mine Ventilation (or related courses) - Programming skills in Python or MATLAB (or willing to learn)
13. CFD-Based Parametric Study and Predictive Modeling of Urban Thermal Airflow and Heat Dispersion in Urban Neighbourhoods
This project investigates the dispersion of anthropogenic heat in urban street canyons using a combination of wind tunnel experiments and numerical simulations. Preliminary experimental work has been conducted using scaled building models in an atmospheric boundary-layer wind tunnel. Several cases were tested to examine the effects of building layout, wind condition, and air-conditioning unit orientation on heat accumulation and dispersion. However, experimental testing is limited by the number of cases that can be physically prepared and measured. Therefore, the next stage of the project will use CFD simulations to extend the experimental dataset and explore additional design parameters. These may include a wider range of wind conditions, urban forms, street canyon configurations, AC unit locations, and exhaust orientations. The CFD results will be validated against available wind tunnel measurements and then used to support a broader parametric study. Based on sufficient simulation runs, the project aims to develop predictive models or data-driven relationships linking urban morphological parameters and climatic condition parameters to heat accumulation patterns. These models will help identify design conditions that reduce localized heat trapping and improve outdoor thermal comfort. The final outcome is expected to provide practical guidance for urban planning, building design, and anthropogenic heat mitigation strategies in dense urban areas.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: This research focuses on urban thermal airflows, with an emphasis on anthropogenic heat dispersion in outdoor built environments. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and scaled wind tunnel experiments are applied to simulate and analyze buoyancy-driven thermal flows under atmospheric boundary-layer conditions. The research aims to understand how anthropogenic heat released from typical types of urban sources, such as air-conditioning outdoor units, is transported and accumulated in street canyons, and how these processes affect outdoor thermal comfort and urban heat mitigation.
Student roles: The student will support the CFD-based study of an ongoing research project on anthropogenic heat dispersion in urban street canyons. The main tasks will include preparing CFD simulation cases (in OpenFOAM), modifying geometric configurations (using 3D modelling software), defining boundary conditions, running simulations, and post-processing results. Possibility of running the simulations on the clusters will be provided.
The student will first become familiar with the existing wind tunnel experimental dataset and baseline CFD model. They will then help generate additional simulation cases to investigate parameters that were not fully covered in the experiments, such as wind conditions, alternative urban layouts, different canyon configurations, and various AC unit arrangements. The student may also assist in checking mesh quality, performing sensitivity tests, and comparing simulation results with available experimental measurements.
Another important part of the role will be data analysis. The student will extract relevant indicators, such as velocity profiles, heat or scalar accumulation levels, pedestrian-level exposure, and ventilation performance. They will help organize simulation results into a structured dataset that can be used for statistical or data-driven modeling. Depending on progress and skill level, the student may also assist with developing simple regression or machine-learning models to relate urban design parameters to heat accumulation outcomes.
The student will be expected to document their work clearly, prepare figures and summary tables, and participate in regular research discussions. The role is suitable for a student interested in CFD, urban climate, heat transfer, environmental fluid mechanics, and climate-resilient urban design.
Skills required: The student should have a background in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, building engineering, energy engineering, or a related field. Experience with CFD, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and fundamental knowledge in built environment is required. Previous experiences of using OpenFOAM and ANSYS Fluent would be preferred. Familiarity with data-analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB) would be an asset. The student should be comfortable working with numerical data, preparing simulation cases, post-processing results, and producing clear figures for presenting findings. Good communication skills in English and the ability to work independently are also important.
14. Cable driven scoliosis brace design
Supervisor: Tao Liu
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Scoliosis is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, often accompanied by vertebral rotation, resulting in a three-dimensional deformity. It most commonly develops during adolescence (adolescent idiopathic scoliosis), though it can also arise from congenital or neuromuscular causes. Progressive curves can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and, in severe cases, cardiopulmonary complications. Current non-surgical treatment relies heavily on rigid bracing to halt progression during growth; however, these braces can be uncomfortable, restrictive, and highly dependent on patient compliance, limiting their overall effectiveness.
This project explores the design of a hybrid soft–rigid scoliosis brace that uses cable-driven actuation to apply controlled, three-dimensional corrective forces to the spine. The system combines a compliant, wearable textile interface for comfort with strategically placed rigid elements that anchor and distribute loads. Tensioned cables, routed along the torso, function as artificial tendons that can be passively preloaded or actively adjusted to guide spinal alignment in real time.
By integrating principles from soft robotics and orthotic design, the brace aims to improve adaptability, comfort, and precision compared to traditional rigid braces. The long-term goal is to enable dynamic, personalized correction that responds to user movement while maintaining safe and effective force application.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on the use of computational modelling, wearables and assistive devices to promote people's health, performance and patient outcome.
Student roles: 1. Design a cable-driven mechanism for a scoliosis brace. 2. Manufacture and validate the designed brace. 3. Provide weekly updates on project progress.
Skills required: 1. Proficiency with computer aid design software (e.g., SolidWorks, Blender) 2. Experience with cable-driven mechanism design 3. Experience with prototyping and fabrication
15. Caractérisation expérimentale et numérique de la transmission acoustique de structures aéronautique.
Reducing noise in the cabin of an aircraft is a major challenge for the aerospace industry. To achieve this, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of acoustic transmission through the fuselage structures. This requires vibroacoustic modeling of the entire fuselage and a thorough analysis of these mechanisms. The goal is to find solutions to reduce the solid transmission of mechanical vibrations and limit the acoustic transmission of noise in the cabin, to improve passenger comfort and ensure a pleasant travel experience.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research expertise spans several fields, including passive control of noise and vibrations, numerical modeling and simulation in vibroacoustics, robotics, artificial intelligence and production, and structure inspection. I explore ways to optimize the performance of mechanical systems using innovative techniques and by combining different disciplines. My objective is to contribute to creating sustainable and practical solutions to improve people's quality of life.
Student roles: The intern will be responsible for designing and validating finite element models and statistical energy analysis (SEA) for aircraft fuselage structures. They will need to design sophisticated numerical models to simulate the transmission of noise and vibrations through different parts of the aircraft, using software tools such as Catia, SolidWorks, Simcenter 3D, Femap, VA One, Nova, Matlab, and Python. They will also need to validate these models by comparing the results with experimental data and conducting comparative analyses to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the models.
Skills required: We seek a creative, independent, detail-oriented, and creative student with solid teamwork skills for this internship. The ideal candidate should have a background in engineering or a related field and a solid understanding of the following software tools: Catia, SolidWorks, Simcenter 3D, Femap, VA One, Nova, Matlab, and Python.
Additionally, the candidate should have experience in design and modeling, programming, and data analysis. They should also be able to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with a team of researchers to accomplish project goals. Experience with vibroacoustic or structural acoustics modeling would be a plus.
16. Computational Modeling and Experimental Characterization of the Nonlinear Quasi-Static Behavior of Architected Metamaterial Laminates
Supervisor: Zia Saadatnia
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
The goal of this project is to develop computational and experimental approaches for investigating the nonlinear mechanical behavior of metamaterial laminates. The project focuses on capturing both material and geometric nonlinearities in layered architected materials and understanding their influence on the overall mechanical response. Through this course, skills and methods such as finite element analysis and experimental characterization will be developed for modeling and evaluating the stiffness behavior of metamaterial laminates, including bending, extensional, and coupling components of the stiffness matrices.
The project revolves around the development of computational models using finite element analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS) to simulate the nonlinear response of metamaterial laminates under different loading conditions. These models will be used to extract stiffness characteristics and understand the interaction between different deformation modes. In parallel, additive manufacturing techniques (e.g., FFF or SLA) will be employed to fabricate metamaterial laminate samples, which will then be experimentally characterized under quasi-static loading conditions to validate the computational predictions. The integration of modeling and experimental validation will provide a comprehensive understanding of the nonlinear behavior and enable the design of advanced metamaterial systems with tailored mechanical properties.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My specialized research area is the design and development of advanced architected materials and metamaterial structures with tailored mechanical responses, including nonlinear and coupled behaviors, for applications such as adaptive structures, mechanical sensing, energy absorption, and multifunctional load-bearing systems. This research integrates computational modeling, additive manufacturing, and experimental characterization to understand and engineer material responses that go beyond conventional materials.
Student roles: The role of the student can be summarized in the following three items:
• Perform computational modeling to derive the governing equations and stiffness characteristics of the metamaterial laminate under material and geometrical linear and nonlinear assumptions. • Perform finite element analysis to simulate the nonlinear mechanical behavior of metamaterial laminates and extract stiffness matrix components including bending, extensional, and coupling responses • Assist in the design and fabrication of metamaterial laminate specimens using additive manufacturing techniques and conduct experimental characterization under quasi-static loading conditions • Analyze and compare computational and experimental results, and work closely with a graduate student to validate models and refine the understanding of nonlinear behavior in metamaterial systems
Skills required: The student requires a solid understanding of mechanics of materials, particularly advanced solid mechanics, including material and geometric linearity and nonlinearity and architected metamaterials. The student should have familiarity with composite materials and laminate theory, as well as an understanding of stiffness matrices including bending, extensional, and coupling terms. The student is also required to have experience or background in finite element analysis using software (e.g., ANSYS) for modeling complex mechanical systems. In addition, the student should be familiar with additive manufacturing techniques and basic experimental methods for mechanical characterization, particularly load-displacement analysis under quasi-static loading conditions.
17. Condensation for Improved Heat Transfer and Water Recovery
As an intern working on dropwise condensation experiments, you will assist in designing, setting up, and conducting laboratory tests to analyze heat transfer and condensation behavior on engineered surfaces. Responsibilities include preparing and coating test surfaces, operating experimental setups, collecting temperature and humidity data, and analyzing droplet growth and heat flux using imaging techniques. You will also help troubleshoot equipment, maintain lab safety protocols, and document findings for research reports. Collaboration with senior researchers and team discussions will be key to refining experimental methods and interpreting results for potential applications in energy-efficient cooling and thermal management systems.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Heat exchangers can be found everywhere that thermal management is needed, such as data centers, battery pack of electrical vehicles, microelectronics, petrochemical facilities, as well as HVAC systems to name but a few. One of the most important heat exchange mechanisms is condensation. We also work with water recovery systems, surface engineering and droplet surface interactions in general in scientific and industrial contexts.
Student roles: Responsibilities include preparing and coating test surfaces, operating experimental setups, collecting temperature and humidity data, and analyzing droplet growth and heat flux using imaging techniques. You will also help troubleshoot equipment, maintain lab safety protocols, and document findings for research reports. Collaboration with senior researchers and team discussions will be key to refining experimental methods and interpreting results for potential applications in energy-efficient cooling and thermal management systems.
Skills required: Familiarity with Data acquisition systems Ability to conduct hands-on experimental work Basic data manipulation and knowledge of MATLAB or similar programs Good oral and written skills Being a team player and having initiative is a must. Must be self motivated. Good time management, ability to meet deadlines, and a sense of curiosity is essential for success. I welcome applications from all students with varied backgrounds, gender, physical abilities, and creeds. We will strive to accommodate the needs and special circumstances of selected people to achieve their individual peak performance.
18. Construction of robotic human spine
Supervisor: Mark Driscoll
University: McGill University (Montréal campus)
Location: Montreal, Québec
Start date: 2027-05-03
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engg-Biomedical, Engg-Systems and Technology
Spinal disorders and associated back pain will be experienced by 4 of 5 adults, per Statistics Canada, and hence currently represent an epidemic hindering productivity and creating a massive economic burden to developed nations. The presentation of a spinal disorder, mechanically, represents a flawed stability mechanism.
Many new theories of spinal stability and how spinal disorders occur have been proposed over the last 50 years. Although mathematically plausible, in vivo verification is difficult to achieve provided the high variability between patients and the complexities in acquiring relevant, objective, and quantitative validation data. An intermediate step would be moving from in silico (finite element modeling) to ex vivo (bench side) tests. Within the Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Lab at McGill University, many elaborate finite element models of the spine are being worked on to evaluate stability and develop new treatments. Hence, a bench side robotic spine will now be constructed to pose as an intermediate objective validation step prior to moving towards human in vivo testing. In brief, the project will comprise assembling a novel robotic spine inclusive of analogue bone, passive soft tissues, and active muscles. Several key manufactures have been identified to work with the research intern to make this project feasible while the equipment will be in place and available at the beginning of the internship. Once the spine is assembled, stability will be tested (i.e. loading the robotic spine) while evaluating muscular contributions in contrast to the in-house theories put forth via the corresponding in silico models.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Spine biomechanics research has made considerable advancement with the use of in silico research platforms which continue to improve along with advancing computing power. The ability to explore biomechanical principles and new hypotheses by means of virtual in silico platforms presents an efficient and effective method. Within our research group, we evaluate how spinal stability is achieved and maintained to better understand how instability and subsequent disorders arises. Finite element analysis is an important tool used for these studies within our group. We are now extending this analysis to bench side studies via the construction of a new robotic spine.
Student roles: The student will assemble and build a robotic spine in order to perform experiments of stability thereafter. The spine will comprise analogue bone, soft tissues and muscles. Muscles will be pneumatic in nature and will be connected to a valve and pressure control system. Student will be charged will composing a Matlab/Labview program to handle the control of the valves (to engage and disengage muscles) as a function of the position of the spine. The position of the spine will be tracked in real-time via an electromagnetic 3D tracking system. Hence, the position of the spine will be controlled by the pneumatic muscles and the introduced spine loading. Once, the spine is assembled, the tracking system installed and the pneumatic muscles programed, the student will work with other lab members to conduct experiments. Thereafter, the student will be charged provide a technical report as to their findings. The student will meet with the supervising professor on a weekly basis as part of the regular weekly lab meetings. Project progress will also be reported every two weeks by way of a concise document. Student will be offered independence as far as the work schedule as full flex time is practiced within the lab. This freedom is based on student performance. However, during scheduled meetings the student is expected to be presence.
Skills required: The research intern candidate is expected to have interest in biomechanics and biomedical Engineering. Experience in robotics and mechatronics would be an asset for the execution of the project. Matlab/Labview coding and experience for data pre- and post-processing is a strong plus. The student should be comfortable working in a team setting and with suppliers. Furthermore, the student should have strong communication skills.
Have you ever wondered where the plastic on your favourite beach comes from, or where it goes after being swept back into the ocean? Tiny plastic particles, known as microplastics, are now found everywhere from coastal waters to Arctic water, the most remote regions of the planet. They originate from the breakdown of larger debris such as bottles, bags, and fishing gear, as well as from primary sources like industrial pellets and fibres released from synthetic clothing during washing. Despite their widespread presence, we still do not fully understand how these particles move through water or where they ultimately end up.
What makes microplastics so difficult to track and remove in aquatic systems is that they do not all behave the same way in flowing water. Their motion depends not just on how fast the water is moving, but also on their shape, size, and density. Microplastics come in a wide range of forms, including spheres, fibres, irregular fragments and thin films, each interacting differently with the surrounding fluid. Some particles drift slowly, some sink to the bed, and others are carried long distances by complex flow patterns. Simplified models that treat all microplastics as identical spheres cannot capture this complexity.
This project looks at how microplastics move in water. Using laboratory experiments in a recirculating water tunnel, various model particles are tracked with cameras as they interact with currents. By comparing how different particles move under the same flow conditions, we can better understand how microplastics spread in rivers and oceans and help inform efforts to protect our aquatic environments.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Many of today's environmental challenges come down to one basic question: how do water and air move? The answer lies in fluid dynamics. The way currents and winds carry particles and heat shapes problems such as how pollution spreads, how ice melts, and how air moves around the things we build. Yet these processes remain poorly understood. In the TEE Lab (Turbulence and Environmental Experiments) at the University of Ottawa, students tackle these questions through hands-on fluid dynamics experiments, using a combination of cameras and light sources to reveal the physics behind real-world problems and contribute to protecting our environment.
Student roles: The student will take part in hands-on laboratory experiments in fluid dynamics, working closely with the research team in the TEE Lab. The project explores how microplastic particles move through flowing water, using controlled experiments in a recirculating water tunnel to reveal the physics behind their transport.
The student will prepare model particles with different shapes, sizes, and densities to represent common types of microplastics. These particles will be released into a recirculating water channel, where their motion is recorded using cameras. The student will track how the particles move using tools such as MATLAB or Python to compare how different particles behave with the moving water. This hands-on process shows how an experiment develops from idea to results.
Through this project, the student will develop valuable and transferable skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific visualisation, while gaining first-hand experience of how fundamental fluid mechanics can be applied to one of today's pressing environmental problems. Alongside these skills, the student will become part of a collaborative research team, sharing ideas and learning alongside others tackling related questions in the lab.
Skills required: We are looking for students with a basic understanding of fluid mechanics and some programming experience in MATLAB or Python. Experience with CAD design is helpful. We provide full hands-on training, so no prior experimental research experience is necessary. You will learn techniques for measuring and visualizing fluid flow, as well as how to detect, track, and analyze objects using image processing techniques. Beyond technical skills, we value curiosity, patience, strong organizational skills, and enthusiasm for environmental problems. A collaborative spirit is equally important, as you will share lab space and equipment with other students and researchers working alongside you.
20. Deep Learning-Based Closed-Loop Flow Control for Enhanced UAV Aerodynamic Performance
Supervisor: Ebenezer Essel
University: Concordia University (Montréal campus)
Aerodynamic drag reduction is critical for improving the endurance and energy efficiency of emerging electric unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), supporting global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Effective drag mitigation requires the integration of distributed sensors and flow-control actuators capable of real-time detection and suppression of adverse flow phenomena such as boundary-layer separation, stall, and flow instabilities within a closed-loop control framework. Recent advances in machine learning (ML), particularly deep neural networks, enable accurate identification of salient flow instabilities from high-frequency sensor data. These models can be embedded within closed-loop control frameworks to trigger flow-control actuators such as synthetic jets or plasma actuators in real time. By actively suppressing separation and delaying stall onset, such intelligent control systems enhance aerodynamic efficiency, stability, and overall flight performance.
This project aims to develop deep learning models for real-time detection of flow instabilities and control-oriented flow-state prediction around low-Reynolds-number airfoils relevant to UAV applications. Recurrent neural network architectures, such as LSTM networks, will be employed to learn the temporal evolution of flow fields from time-series sensor data. Training, validation, and testing data will be generated using unsteady RANS (URANS) simulations performed in Star-CCM+ on Concordia's high-performance computing clusters. These simulations will resolve separated and unstable flow regimes and produce sensor-based datasets capturing key flow characteristics including velocity and vorticity fields, pressure distributions, turbulence intensity, and aerodynamic force coefficients. This project lays the groundwork for embedding trained models within closed-loop control strategies aimed at suppressing flow separation and reducing aerodynamic drag in UAV applications.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The Concordia Turbulence Research Lab (CTRL) focuses on studying turbulent flows through a combination of experimental investigations and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Turbulent flows, which occur at relatively high Reynolds numbers, are characterized by irregular fluctuations, complex mixing, and chaotic behavior, distinguishing them from more predictable laminar flows. Current research areas include aerodynamics, active flow control, and the integration of physics-informed machine learning techniques for modeling and predicting flow behavior.
Student roles: The student will conduct a focused review of the literature on ML-based flow estimation and closed-loop flow control strategies. They will perform URANS simulations to model separated and unstable flow regimes around low-Reynolds-number airfoils and generate sensor-based datasets for model development. The student will design, train, and validate deep learning models for flow-state prediction and instability detection within a control-oriented framework. They will be expected to write a final technical report and contribute to a conference paper based on the project outcomes.
Skills required: The ideal candidate will have a background in Mechanical or Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering or a related discipline, along with a solid understanding of fluid mechanics. Prior experience or familiarity with CFD tools and programming in MATLAB or Python will be beneficial. A basic understanding of machine learning concepts and techniques, including recurrent neural networks, will be considered a strong asset for this project.
The rapid grow of printed electronic devices has significantly improved our quality of life, but these technological achievements have also created an immense volume of electronic waste (E-waste). These disposable electronic sensors are essential for personalized healthcare, food safety inspection, intelligent packaging, environmental monitoring, and public security. Many of the applications require single-use devices with simple electronics that perform one or two well-defined functions within acceptable limits. The constituent electronic circuitry, transducers, nonrigid substrates, dielectric surface coatings, and protective flexible enclosures must also be designed to maintain functionality during normal operation, but once the usefulness of the sensor has concluded it is physically destroyed in an incinerator, disposed of in a landfill, or decomposed in-situ. Western researchers are building upon their past successes in chemically synthesizing electrically conductive graphene-derivative inks, additive droplet deposition film printing technologies, and laser-material processing techniques to create a variety of novel disposable electrochemical and electronic sensors. In this context, degradation means the fabricated device will harmlessly disintegrate into nontoxic carbon flakes (e.g., graphite, graphene, GO), transducer material (e.g., hydrogels, polymer composites), and substrate/coating residue (e.g., starch, cellulose) when exposed to the abiotic and biotic conditions of the disposal environment. The Mitacs-Globalink project involves developing simple degradable carbon-based electronic sensors for a variety of environmental monitoring applications. The intern will explore the design and fabrication of carbon-based passive electronic circuits printed directly on biopolymer substrates with carbon precursors (e.g., lignin) using laser-induced graphene (LIG) processes. The LIG technique uses an infrared laser beam to first photo-thermally convert the lignin to an amorphous carbon and then transform the resultant carbon to an electrically conductive graphene-derivative functional film.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Prof. Knopf’s interdisciplinary research activities involve 3D geometric modeling, new materials and fabrication techniques for creating the next generation of mechanically flexible optical and electronic devices, light-driven micromachines, and wearable sensor systems. His research activities include: chemical synthesis of environmentally benign electrically conductive graphene-derivative inks; novel fabrication processes for printing optically transparent electrodes and circuitry on mechanically flexible substrates; design of microstructures for large area optical sheets; advanced laser material processing; and biologically-based light activated transducers. He has recently authored the books “Light Driven Micromachines” (CRC Press) and “Elastomeric Optics: Theory, Design and Fabrication” (De Gruyter GmbH).
Student roles: The student will undertake a preliminary study on single-use electronic sensors for environmental monitoring, design a simple degradable sensor that responds to the identified measurand, and experimentally test the device under controlled laboratory conditions. The research is challenging because the critical design and sensor fabrication parameters need to be established. It will also be important to propose methods of integrating these degradable sensors with existing instrumentation and/or IoT technology. The intern will also explore the LIG process, material properties for creating degradable carbon-based electronics, and experimental methods for characterizing the electrical behaviour of the fabricated films.
Skills required: The applicant should have a strong engineering background, and research interest, in engineering materials and/or advanced fabrication technology. The ability to competently use standard laboratory instrumentation and electronic measurement systems is expected. Finite element modeling experience would be an asset. The specific tasks to be completed by the student will be developed based on the applicant’s academic background and demonstrated technical strengths.
22. Design and Analysis of Light Driven Femto-Satellites
Supervisor: George Knopf
University: Western University (London campus)
Location: London, Ontario
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engg-Materials, Engg-Electrical, Engg-Systems and Technology, Engg-Computer, Engg-Aeronautical
Femto-satellites, or Femtosats, are very small orbiting sensors (0.001-0.01kg) that perform a limited number of functions and are part of a large group of spatially distributed tiny satellites called a swarm. Each individual Femtosat communicates directly with a much larger “host” satellite. The larger host satellite is responsible for initially transporting the numerous Femtosats to the target location and relaying communication with the ground station. The function of the proposed miniature satellite will be to broadcast one or two environmental parameters (e.g., internal temperature and pressure) as it moves in orbit around a planet or asteroid. The actuation requirements of the individual Femtosat are limited to adjusting attitude and relative position to the swarm. Micro-propulsion systems can be developed based on laser ablation propulsion (LAP). In this type of system, a pulsed or continuous wave laser beam strikes the surface of condensed matter and produces a jet of vapor or plasma. The thrust is produced from the reaction force on the material surface. In this work, the micro thrust necessary to move a Femtosat in space can be produced from laser ablation using a low-powered diode laser and polymer (e.g., PMMA) as the ablation material. The Mitacs Globalink project involves a detailed study of underlying principles, interdisciplinary design, mathematical analysis, computer simulation, prototype fabrication and/or experimental testing to demonstrate key concepts of the laser-ablation micro-propulsion system for a Femtosat.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Prof. Knopf’s interdisciplinary research activities involve 3D geometric modeling, new materials and fabrication techniques for creating the next generation of mechanically flexible optical and electronic devices, light-driven micromachines, and wearable sensor systems. His research activities include: chemical synthesis of environmentally benign electrically conductive graphene-derivative inks; novel fabrication processes for printing optically transparent electrodes and circuitry on mechanically flexible substrates; design of microstructures for large area optical sheets; advanced laser material processing; and biologically-based light activated transducers. He has recently authored the books “Light Driven Micromachines” (CRC Press) and “Elastomeric Optics: Theory, Design and Fabrication” (De Gruyter GmbH).
Student roles: The intern will undertake a detailed study of underlying principles, perform interdisciplinary design, undertake mathematical analysis and develop computer simulations, and experimentally test key concepts in a laboratory environment. All simulation studies and experiments must be properly documented with clearly stated goals, structured methodology, thorough analyses, and detailed assessment of results. Note that any experimental testing will be performed in a lab and not in actual orbit.
Skills required: The applicant should have a strong engineering background, and research interest, in engineering materials and/or advanced fabrication technology. The ability to competently use standard laboratory instrumentation and electronic measurement systems is expected. Finite element modeling experience would be an asset. The specific tasks to be completed by the student will be developed based on the applicant’s academic background and demonstrated technical strengths.
23. Design and Development of Better Heat Exchangers with Additive Manufacturing
Supervisor: Ahmad Barari
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Advances in design for additive manufacturing are leading to breakthroughs in reimagining this most elementary part. Recently, a heat exchanger prototype from GE was able to handle temperatures of 900ºC, which is 200°C above current traditional devices. GE Research says that its prototype could find applications within the energy sector to enable “cleaner, more efficient power generation in both existing and next-generation power plants and jet engine platforms.”.
The objective in this capstone project is to design and develop new heat exchanger using design for additive manufacturing techniques and metal 3D printing. Consolidation and surface to volume ratios are among the important evaluation criteria in this design.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Barari is a full professor in Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Research Excellence Chair at Ontario Tech University, Canada. He is the director of the Advanced Digital Design, Manufacturing and Metrology laboratories (AD2Mlabs) at Ontario Tech University (www.AD2Mlabs.com). Dr. Barari serves currently as the chair of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems Working Group (https://tc.ifac-control.org/5/1/members/ahmad-barari), and the Scientific vice-chair at Technical Committee on Manufacturing Plant Control (TC 5.1) in International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC).
Dr. Barari has been primarily involved in research and development in engineering design and advanced manufacturing technologies for over 25 years.
Student roles: Research assistant
Skills required: Design and Manufacturing, Digital Manufacturing, Precision Manufacturing, 3D Coordinate Metrology Additive Manufacturing and Rapid Prototyping of sculptured Surfaces, CAD/CAM/CAE, Computational Geometry, Reverse Engineering.
24. Design and Development of Mechanical Design Automation System (MDAS) in Solidworks
Supervisor: Ahmad Barari
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
The objective is to develop a Mechanical Design Automation System (MDAS) in Solidworks. The MDAS should be capable to automatically design parts from a catalog of mechanical components based on the provided parameter values set by the user and produce the corresponding engineering drawings. Visual Basics or C# can be used to develop macros needed for all modules of the system including the user-interface, data processing and analysis, and output generation.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Barari is a full professor in Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Research Excellence Chair at Ontario Tech University, Canada. He is the director of the Advanced Digital Design, Manufacturing and Metrology laboratories (AD2Mlabs) at Ontario Tech University (www.AD2Mlabs.com). Dr. Barari serves currently as the chair of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems Working Group (https://tc.ifac-control.org/5/1/members/ahmad-barari), and the Scientific vice-chair at Technical Committee on Manufacturing Plant Control (TC 5.1) in International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC).
Dr. Barari has been primarily involved in research and development in engineering design and advanced manufacturing technologies for over 25 years.
Student roles: Research assistant
Skills required: Design and Manufacturing, Digital Manufacturing, Precision Manufacturing, 3D Coordinate Metrology Additive Manufacturing and Rapid Prototyping of sculptured Surfaces, CAD/CAM/CAE, Computational Geometry, Reverse Engineering.
25. Design and Development of Novel 3D-Printed Continuum Robotic Arms
Supervisor: Farrokh Janabi-Sharifi
University: Toronto Metropolitan University
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Start date: 2027-05-31 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engg-Computer, Engg-Electrical, Engg-Systems and Technology
This project investigates the development of novel continuum robotic manipulators using advanced 3D-printing techniques and innovative tendon-routing architectures. Traditional tendon-driven continuum robots commonly rely on spacer-disc designs with relatively simple tendon configurations. While effective, these designs can limit the achievable range of motion, dexterity, and structural adaptability.
The goal of this project is to explore new design concepts for continuum manipulators by exploiting the flexibility offered by additive manufacturing. The student will investigate alternative backbone structures, integrated flexible joints, and unconventional tendon-routing methods to generate more complex and efficient motions. The project may also explore multi-material 3D printing, embedded actuation pathways, and lightweight structural designs.
Key tasks include:
• Designing and prototyping novel continuum arm geometries using CAD software and 3D printing.
• Investigating alternative tendon-routing configurations to improve bending, twisting, and dexterous motion capabilities.
• Developing simulation or kinematic models to analyze the proposed designs.
• Experimentally evaluating the motion characteristics and mechanical performance of the prototypes.
• Comparing the proposed designs with conventional tendon-driven continuum manipulators.
The project will provide hands-on experience in robotics design, rapid prototyping, continuum robotics, and experimental testing. The outcomes may contribute toward the development of next-generation soft robotic systems and lead to conference or journal publications in robotics and intelligent systems.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: This research focuses on the design, modeling, and control of continuum robotic manipulators for advanced robotic applications. The work combines soft robotics, additive manufacturing, robotic design, and intelligent control to develop flexible robotic systems capable of operating in complex and constrained environments. By leveraging modern 3D-printing technologies and novel tendon-routing strategies, the research aims to create new classes of continuum robots with enhanced dexterity, compliance, and motion capabilities for applications in medical robotics, aerial manipulation, industrial inspection, and autonomous robotic systems.
Student roles: The student will assist in designing and prototyping novel continuum robotic arms, developing tendon-routing concepts, and conducting simulations and experimental evaluations of the proposed systems. The student will document design procedures, analyze experimental results, and participate in regular research meetings with the supervisory team. Contributions toward publications, technical reports, and prototype development are also expected.
Skills required: The ideal student should have a background in robotics, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, or related fields. Experience with CAD software, 3D printing, or robotic prototyping is highly desirable. Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or C++ programming is considered an asset. Knowledge of robotics, kinematics, or continuum robot concepts is beneficial but not mandatory. The student should be interested in hands-on experimental work, design innovation, and interdisciplinary robotics research.
26. Design and Development of a Digital Twin Dashboard
Supervisor: Ahmad Barari
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Maintenance cost is a significant part of the total operating cost of all plants. Condition monitoring is a key element of the maintenance program. Most comprehensive predictive maintenance programs use vibration as the primary parameter to monitor. The main goal of this project is to shape the maintenance toward Industry 4.0 and help the condition monitoring of infrastructure (like rotary machines in power generation stations) using collected data. A dashboard needs to be designed based on the characteristics of the available physical twin. A data acquisition web application will be developed to evaluate and process the signals and find different patterns and signatures of the system to train the machine and to make decisions using AI for predictive maintenance.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Barari is a full professor in Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Research Excellence Chair at Ontario Tech University, Canada. He is the director of the Advanced Digital Design, Manufacturing and Metrology laboratories (AD2Mlabs) at Ontario Tech University (www.AD2Mlabs.com). Dr. Barari serves currently as the chair of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems Working Group (https://tc.ifac-control.org/5/1/members/ahmad-barari), and the Scientific vice-chair at Technical Committee on Manufacturing Plant Control (TC 5.1) in International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC).
Dr. Barari has been primarily involved in research and development in engineering design and advanced manufacturing technologies for over 25 years.
Maintenance cost is a significant part of the total operating cost of all plants. Condition monitoring is a key element of the maintenance program. Most comprehensive predictive maintenance programs use vibration as the primary parameter to monitor. The main goal of this project is to shape the maintenance toward Industry 4.0 and help the condition monitoring of infrastructure (like rotary machines in power generation stations) using collected data. A network of sensor needs to be designed based on the characteristics of the rotary machine. The design needs implementation of the modern sensors, data acquisition and process, simulation (FEA) and machine learning toward smart maintenance. Potential sponsors to this project can be OPG, Oil and Gas Industry, Hydro power, and Water transmission in various industries.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Barari is a full professor in Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Research Excellence Chair at Ontario Tech University, Canada. He is the director of the Advanced Digital Design, Manufacturing and Metrology laboratories (AD2Mlabs) at Ontario Tech University (www.AD2Mlabs.com). Dr. Barari serves currently as the chair of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems Working Group (https://tc.ifac-control.org/5/1/members/ahmad-barari), and the Scientific vice-chair at Technical Committee on Manufacturing Plant Control (TC 5.1) in International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC).
Dr. Barari has been primarily involved in research and development in engineering design and advanced manufacturing technologies for over 25 years.
This project aims to design and develop a mechanically driven running simulation platform based on a four-bar linkage system to replicate key phases of human running gait for footwear evaluation. The system will generate repeatable foot strike and push-off trajectories without relying on complex humanoid robotics or treadmill-based human subjects. The platform will use a tunable four-bar mechanism to approximate the kinematics of the lower limb during running, enabling controlled variation of stride length, impact angle, and contact duration. By converting rotational motor input into a prescribed foot path, the system will produce consistent and repeatable loading conditions representative of running biomechanics.
Force sensors and motion tracking will be integrated at the foot–ground interface to measure impact forces, energy return, and wear characteristics of footwear materials under standardized conditions. The system is intended to reduce variability inherent in human testing while providing a low-cost, scalable alternative to robotic gait simulators and instrumented treadmills. The outcome of this project is a compact experimental platform for comparative footwear testing, enabling controlled studies of cushioning, durability, and energy transfer under simulated running conditions.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on computational modelling, wearable technologies, and assistive devices to understand and enhance human movement, with the goal of improving health outcomes, physical performance, and rehabilitation effectiveness.
Student roles: 1. Designs and analyses the four-bar linkage and overall structure using CAD and simulation tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Adams). 2. Fabricates, assembles, and iteratively refines the mechanical system. Handles prototyping methods such as machining, 3D printing, and component alignment. 3. Develops the motor-driven actuation system to generate repeatable cyclic motion. Implements basic control (e.g., speed regulation, microcontroller programming, and optional feedback control). 4. Integrates sensors and data acquisition systems to measure forces and motion during operation.
Skills required: 1. Mechanical design and analysis of four-bar linkage system (SolidWorks, MSC Adams). 2. Prototyping and fabrication of mechanical components. 3. Design of control systems for actuator-driven motion.
29. Design and Development of a Manual Laser 2D Dimensional Measuring Device
Supervisor: Ahmad Barari
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Optical scanners are used in engineering applications to measure, verify, and control geometric and dimensional specifications. This project will focus on the creation of a low-cost Manual Laser 2D Dimensional Measuring Device. This device can be used to measure 2D geometries with linear dimensioning. Examples of the previous developments at AD2M Labs are available. The desire is to have a graphic output from the measurement that can be presented in a standard CAD format. By completing this project, the team will have knowledge of programming, mechanical design, and utilizing sensors in real time applications, and be able to integrate these skills in advanced engineering projects.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Barari is a full professor in Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Research Excellence Chair at Ontario Tech University, Canada. He is the director of the Advanced Digital Design, Manufacturing and Metrology laboratories (AD2Mlabs) at Ontario Tech University (www.AD2Mlabs.com). Dr. Barari serves currently as the chair of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems Working Group (https://tc.ifac-control.org/5/1/members/ahmad-barari), and the Scientific vice-chair at Technical Committee on Manufacturing Plant Control (TC 5.1) in International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC).
Dr. Barari has been primarily involved in research and development in engineering design and advanced manufacturing technologies for over 25 years.
Student roles: Research assistant
Skills required: Design and Manufacturing, Digital Manufacturing, Precision Manufacturing, 3D Coordinate Metrology Additive Manufacturing and Rapid Prototyping of sculptured Surfaces, CAD/CAM/CAE, Computational Geometry, Reverse Engineering.
30. Design and Development of a Photogrammetry Drone
Supervisor: Ahmad Barari
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Photogrammetry has been used in many fields to recreate objects virtually from a collection of pictures. From architecture to museum artifacts, to nuclear plant pipelines, this technology has gained popularity over the last number of years. In this project, a a drone-based photogrammetry will be developed. The major tasks include the completion of the photogrammetry module, integration of the positioning module, and designing the navigation program and mechanical installation of the photogrammetry components on the drone. The team need to be comfortable with programming, software and hardware integration, and drone navigation.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Barari is a full professor in Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Research Excellence Chair at Ontario Tech University, Canada. He is the director of the Advanced Digital Design, Manufacturing and Metrology laboratories (AD2Mlabs) at Ontario Tech University (www.AD2Mlabs.com). Dr. Barari serves currently as the chair of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems Working Group (https://tc.ifac-control.org/5/1/members/ahmad-barari), and the Scientific vice-chair at Technical Committee on Manufacturing Plant Control (TC 5.1) in International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC).
Dr. Barari has been primarily involved in research and development in engineering design and advanced manufacturing technologies for over 25 years.
Student roles: Research assistance
Skills required: Design and Manufacturing, Digital Manufacturing, Precision Manufacturing, 3D Coordinate Metrology Additive Manufacturing and Rapid Prototyping of sculptured Surfaces, CAD/CAM/CAE, Computational Geometry, Reverse Engineering, Additive Manufacturing, programming
31. Design and Development of a new desktop device to remove metal 3D printed parts from build plate
Supervisor: Ahmad Barari
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
This new and compact machine can use automated mechanical saw, wire cutting, or other mechanism to quickly remove the build plate from the fabricated metal additive manufacturing parts. The process uses the principle of metal cutting and machining. The overall device will be a desktop design customized for standard sizes of build plates in metal additive manufacturing.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Barari is a full professor in Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Research Excellence Chair at Ontario Tech University, Canada. He is the director of the Advanced Digital Design, Manufacturing and Metrology laboratories (AD2Mlabs) at Ontario Tech University (www.AD2Mlabs.com). Dr. Barari serves currently as the chair of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems Working Group (https://tc.ifac-control.org/5/1/members/ahmad-barari), and the Scientific vice-chair at Technical Committee on Manufacturing Plant Control (TC 5.1) in International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC).
Dr. Barari has been primarily involved in research and development in engineering design and advanced manufacturing technologies for over 25 years.
Student roles: Research assistance
Skills required: Design and Manufacturing, Digital Manufacturing, Precision Manufacturing, 3D Coordinate Metrology Additive Manufacturing and Rapid Prototyping of sculptured Surfaces, CAD/CAM/CAE, Computational Geometry, Reverse Engineering, Additive Manufacturing, programming
32. Design and Development of vehicle body using auxetic structures for better crashworthiness
Supervisor: Ahmad Barari
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Auxetic cellular structures consist of a number of unit cells arranged in such a way that the overall structure expands when stretched and contracts when compressed. Such materials and structures are expected to have mechanical properties such as high energy absorption and fracture resistance. The objective of this project is to design and develop vehicle body and structure using auxetic patterns to maximize energy absorbance due to collision. Various modes of impact need to be analyzed and the best cellular patterns need to be design to maximize the level of safety and protection.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Barari is a full professor in Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Research Excellence Chair at Ontario Tech University, Canada. He is the director of the Advanced Digital Design, Manufacturing and Metrology laboratories (AD2Mlabs) at Ontario Tech University (www.AD2Mlabs.com). Dr. Barari serves currently as the chair of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems Working Group (https://tc.ifac-control.org/5/1/members/ahmad-barari), and the Scientific vice-chair at Technical Committee on Manufacturing Plant Control (TC 5.1) in International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC).
Dr. Barari has been primarily involved in research and development in engineering design and advanced manufacturing technologies for over 25 years.
This project focuses on the conceptualization, kinematic modeling and simulation of novel parallel robotic architectures for high-speed pick-and-place operations, advanced machining, and surgical applications. Key responsibilities include:
- Conceptual Design: You will lead the 3D CAD modeling of a new parallel manipulator using SolidWorks. This involves designing complex linkages, joints, and custom end-effectors while ensuring structural integrity, optimizing the workspace, and minimizing mechanical singularities.
- Kinematic Simulation: You will translate your static CAD models into dynamic simulations. Using MATLAB, you will develop mathematical models to compute forward and inverse kinematics. By exporting your SolidWorks assemblies into the Simscape Multibody environment, you will simulate the robot's behavior to analyze joint positions, velocities, and system responses to various trajectory profiles.
- Prototyping and Validation: You will assist in transitioning the finalized digital prototype into a physical, scaled-down model. This includes selecting appropriate actuators, sourcing components, and 3D-printing rapid prototypes to validate your theoretical models in the real world.
By the end of this internship, you will have gained hands-on, industry-relevant expertise in advanced CAD modeling techniques, multi-body dynamic simulation, and the end-to-end prototyping lifecycle of complex, high-performance robotic systems.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on advanced robotics and mechatronics, particularly the kinematic design, dynamic modeling, and motion control of kinematically redundant parallel robots. A central theme of my expertise is physical human-robot interaction (pHRI), utilizing macro-mini robotic systems to achieve intuitive, delicate, and sensorless interactions. Furthermore, my applied research tackles modern industrial automation challenges, including robotic weld joint detection, automated grinding processes, and heavy payload handling. My research scope has expanded to include the dynamic modeling and control of humanoid robots in challenging contexts.
Student roles: Using SolidWorks, they will design the 3D CAD models of the manipulator, including linkages, joints, and custom end-effectors. Using MATLAB, they will formulate the complex math (forward and inverse kinematics). They will then export their CAD designs into Simscape Multibody to run simulations, testing how the robot's joints and velocities respond to different movement paths. Finally, They will help build a prototype of the robot by selecting the right motors (actuators) and using 3D printing.
Skills required: Academic Background: Currently in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a closely related field. CAD Proficiency: Strong hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling, specifically involving complex assemblies and moving parts (SolidWorks is highly preferred). Mathematical Modeling: Solid understanding of robotic kinematics and dynamics, with proven experience using MATLAB to solve complex mathematical models and matrices.
34. Designing Physical Human-Robot Interactions in Virtual Reality
Supervisor: Christopher Yee Wong
University: Concordia University (Montréal campus)
The field of human-robot interaction (HRI) examines the physical and social aspects of interactions between humans and robots. These studies may require multiple expensive robots with long set up times. Virtual reality (VR), on the other hand, can enable low-cost but contextually rich environments for studying HRI. By integrating interactions with physical robots in VR, VR can then be used to study embodied HRI in a variety of contexts at a low cost. For example, participants could think that they are interacting with an expensive full-sized humanoid robot in VR but, in reality, they are physically interacting with a safer low-cost serial manipulator.
This project aims to perform fundamental validation studies to ensure that the use of VR as a research tool for HRI can yield accurate results as a proxy to HRI studies using the same real robots. It remains to be determined which factors are crucial to ensuring tool accuracy. For example, does the incongruity of the robot sound signature (i.e., seeing the virtual robot but hearing the motors of the physical robot) or any time latency between visual contact and physical contact affect a user’s immersion in the VR task, or does HRI in VR elicit the same range and intensity of emotional responses. The student will design, develop, and conduct user studies to examine one particular validation aspect of VR in HRI.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The Living with Assistive and Interactive Robots (LAIR) Lab at Concordia University focuses on examining physical and social human-robot interaction (psHRI) in order to achieve safe, comfortable, and intuitive interactions with autonomous robotic assistants in the areas of home care, retail, manufacturing, or healthcare. This is accomplished by using multimodal analysis of the human (e.g., posture, gesture, touch, emotion, physiological signals, etc.), compliant control algorithms, machine intelligence, and device design.
Student roles: The role of the student(s) is to develop their skills and knowledge in virtual reality, robot control, and user study design: - Learn the current state of the art in VR and HRI by reading scientific literature - Choose and design a user study to validate one particular aspect of VR in HRI - Develop the experiment using Unity and ROS - Develop the experimental protocol, ethics application, conduct a pilot study, and analyze the data - Write clear documentation on the entire project - Meet weekly with the supervisor to discuss progress and project direction
Skills required: The ideal student will have a knowledge of robotics, virtual reality, and be a strong programmer: - Proficient in programming (C++ or Python) - Experience working with virtual reality - Experience with Robot Operating System (ROS)
35. Development of AI tools for vortex identification
The project is focused on the application of AI tools for data analysis in fluid mechanics. Of specific interest is the adaptation of new data clustering strategies for vortex identification and tracking.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Fluid mechanics and aerodynamics
Student roles: The student with work in our research group using the existing data set to develop and benchmark new data analysis techniques.
Skills required: Background in fluid mechanics from a mechanical engineering or closely related program is required. Programming skills are essential.
36. Development of Low Mechanical Impedance Robots to Bridge the Gap Between AI and Hardware
This project aims to develop intrinsically safe robotic manipulators capable of operating in unstructured environments. The research explores novel robotic architectures, including the development of actuators with nonlinear transmission ratios and improved sensing capabilities for flexible robots. A central objective is to enable tighter integration between artificial intelligence algorithms and robotic hardware through mechanical intelligence.
The project will involve modeling, design, and control of flexible and parallel robot systems, as well as the implementation of sensing technologies within these systems. The long-term vision is to bridge the gap between AI and hardware, enabling more adaptive, efficient, and physically capable robotic systems. Applications span healthcare, agriculture, and advanced manufacturing, where human-robot interaction and adaptability are critical.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: This research focuses on robotics and mechatronics, particularly the design of low mechanical impedance robots for safe interaction in unstructured environments. It integrates mechanical design, control systems, and sensing technologies to bridge the gap between artificial intelligence and physical robotic systems. The work emphasizes flexible and compliant robots capable of operating in real-world applications such as healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Student roles: The intern will contribute to the design, development, and validation of robotic systems. Responsibilities include participating in the mechanical and electronic design of experimental setups and robotic prototypes, as well as assisting in modeling and control of flexible robotic systems. The student may also support the integration of sensors and the testing of novel actuator designs. The work will involve hands-on prototyping, simulations, and experimental validation. The intern is expected to collaborate with team members, communicate progress effectively, and contribute to research documentation. This role provides exposure to advanced robotics research in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.
Skills required: Applicants should have a background in mechanical, electrical, or robotic engineering (Bachelor’s or Master’s level). Strong interest in robotics, mechatronics, and autonomous systems is essential. Experience in mechanical design, modeling, and simulation is an asset. Candidates should demonstrate autonomy, problem-solving ability, and good communication skills.
37. Development of a Co-axial Extruder System for Printing with Inflatable Thermoplastic Filaments for Ultra-light Parts
Supervisor: Mohammad Khondoker
University: University of Regina
Location: Regina, Saskatchewan
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Design, Industrial Design and Technology, Engg-Manufacturing, Manufacturing, Engg-Materials, Engg-Systems and Technology, Engg-Chemical, Engg-Industrial, Engg-Metallurgical
Extrusion 3D printing of thermoplastic materials is arguably the most widely used 3D printing technology. This is mainly because it allows modifying the extruder head and printing different types and shapes of thermoplastic material. Under this project, the students will work on this technology to be able to print parts with hollow extrudates. The use of compressed air along with a co-axial extruder would enable inflating extruded filament while the material is still above its glass transition temperature. The air pressure would define the diameter of the inflated filament. When printing infill volume with these inflated filaments, this would be an alternate technique to continuously control infill volume. Hence, this technique would be highly valuable for printing parts with gradient density resulting in gradient mechanical property.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Mohammad Khondoker's areas of interest include developing smart additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, 3D printing of unconventional materials, designing polymer-based composite materials, chemical processing or treatments of functional materials, synthesis of nanomaterials, and rheological/mechanical characterizations. Dr. Khondoker has previously developed AM systems to print liquid metal-based stretchable electronics, parts made of intermixed extrudates of chemically immiscible polymers, devices consisting of extremely soft thermoplastic elastomers, etc.
Student roles: 1. Design the extruder head with a co-axial nozzle. 2. Perform computational fluid dynamics analysis of the extruder feeds 3. Integrate the custom extruder head with an existing 3D printer. 4. Characterize the inflation of extrudates at different temperatures and extrusion rate 5. Optimize and propose the printing parameters to achieve desired diameter for inflated extrudate 6. Develop printing path program allowing printing of parts using the inflated extrudates.
Skills required: The ideal student candidate for this project should have experience with mechanical design and CAD modeling, material science and characterization, and polymer 3D printing. Experience with SEM, rheological analysis, and UV curable vitrimer epoxy would be an added advantage.
38. Development of a high accuracy CFD-DEM model for solid-fluid multiphase flows
40% of the added value of chemical technology is related to particle technology and granular matter (Ennis,1994). A portion of this is linked to fluidized beds, spouted beds, dryers, solid-liquid reactors, and other multiphase process in which dispersed solid-fluid flows occur. Dispersed solid-fluid flows are flows of a continuous fluid phase (gas or liquid) which encompasses granular matter that is not structurally connected. These flows are hard to predict because of scale separation. The particle-fluid and particle-particle interaction at the particle length scale affect the generation of particles bubbles, depletion zones and other macroscopic flow patterns that occur at the process scale. In between these scale, complex multiphase hydrodynamic pattern that significantly alter the mixing of momentum are generated. Consequently, an accurate prediction of solid-fluid flows requires model that can describe the span from the particle scale to the process scale. A variety of models have been developed to simulate solid-liquid flows. These include the classical Eulerian-Eulerian (or two-fluid) model, and the combination of the Discrete Element Method (DEM) for the particles and CFD methods for the liquid phase (CFD-DEM). In Euler–Lagrange models, such as CFD-DEM, the position and the velocity of each particle are tracked so that the dynamics of the solid phase is described with more accuracy than with Euler–Euler approaches. However, these models are computationally intensive, and their use has been limited. The goal of this project is to work towards the design of a high-performance high-order open source CFD-DEM software to predict complex dispersed solid-fluid flows in unit operations such as fluidized and spouted bed reactors.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Pr Blais expertise lies in the development, verification, and validation of high performance digital models for fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and complex multi-physical and multi-scale phenomena. His research interests are in computational fluid mechanics (CFD), reacting flows, granular and solid-fluid flows, topology optimization as well as high-performance computing on distributed high-performance architecture and on GPU. He is the core developer of Lethe, an opens source high-performance and high-order implicit CFD solver (https://github.com/lethe-cfd/lethe) based on the open source DEALII platform (www.dealii.org).
Student roles: With guidance from the supervisor, the student will realize benchmark simulations of the open source Lethe CFD-DEM platform and enhance the CFD-DEM coupling within the platform. For the benchmarking, the student will investigate the fluidization of particles and measure the impact of: the coupling strategy, the order of the CFD scheme and the projection scheme for the DEM. He will measure how these elements affect the pressure drop, the velocity profile and the particle motion. At the same time, the student will program additional coupling physics including new drag correlations and particle projection scheme. Using the above-mentioned benchmark simulation, he will measure how his implementations affect the efficiency of the CFD-DEM coupling. The student will be responsible for designing all the simulations which includes creating the meshes for the geometries, launching the simulations in an HPC environment, programming post-processing capabilities and interpreting the simulation results.
Skills required: The applicant should be curious, autonomous and should have a keen interest for simulation and modelling. The candidate should be familiar with fluid mechanics, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and classical mechanics. Some basic knowledge of the Linux command shell (bash) and some programming experience (C++, Python) are required as this project will require some software development. Previous experience with the finite element method (FEM) or the discrete element method (DEM) is an asset but is not mandatory.
39. Development of a low-cost three-component aerodynamic force measurement system for small-scale laboratory use / Développement d’un système de mesure de force aérodynamique à trois composantes et à faible coût pour une utilisation en laboratoire à petite échelle
Supervisor: Giuseppe Di Labbio
University: École de Technologie Supérieure (Montréal campus)
We all have some experience with the fluid forces known as lift and drag. As a passenger in moving car, if you stick your hand out the window with your thumb tilted 45° toward the sky, you can feel the wind pushing upward (lift) and backward (drag) on your hand. Drag forces are felt even more strongly in water, for example by moving our hands in a pool. These very same forces shape the development and optimization of large vehicles or structures (e.g., aircraft, watercraft, vehicles, buildings). Scale models of aircraft and their components, for example, are often studied in the laboratory using wind tunnels or water channels to measure the forces and moments involved. Indeed, in engineering, we are interested in understanding how design decisions impact these forces and moments.
The objective of this project is to develop a low-cost and adaptable system capable of measuring lift, drag, and pitching moment on an immersed body (e.g., airfoil in air, hydrofoil in water). This is known as a three-component force balance in aerodynamics. Given the cost of commercial force balances, we aim to develop a force balance that is both open software and open hardware, which will render such flow measurements accessible to a broader range of scientific fields and to industries and research labs around the world. A review and evaluation of relevant literature, methods, and previous iterations will be required to guide the selection of the load measurement (e.g., spring gauges, strain gauges, load cells) and force separation techniques. The three-component force balance will then be designed and fabricated. Control and acquisition will be performed using an Arduino or Raspberry Pi. The three-component force balance will be used to evaluate and compare the drag for two angles of attack of a 3D-printed hydrofoil in a water channel.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The Laboratory of Fluid Mechanics and Applications (LFMA) conducts research in pure and applied fluid mechanics. We use state-of-the-art experimental and numerical methods to study complex and unsteady flows. Currently, the LFMA is pioneering the theory and applications of pulsed fluid jet arrangements. We are researching applications of pulsed jets to act as vortex generators to mitigate flow separation over airfoils, to propel and maneuver aquatic vehicles and to shed light on certain cardiovascular and urogenital diseases. The LFMA has recognized expertise in modern and advanced post-processing and modelling methods applicable to a wide range of fluid flows.
Student roles: The student will play an integral role in the development of a prototype of the open force balance system. This 12-week research internship will consist of four principal phases: (1) literature review; (2) design and manufacturing; (3) programming and calibration; (4) testing.
Weeks 1-3: The student will be expected to gain a basic understanding of the principles behind forces balances. Most importantly, the student will conduct a literature review on force balance mechanisms, existing commercial solutions, and previous iterations of the lab. The student will begin to search and evaluate the different options for load measurement.
Weeks 4-6: The student will design the three-component force balance. The design philosophy is to make use of standard parts and simple manufacturing techniques (e.g., 3D-printing, laser cutting) within reason. The student will conduct an analysis of the design in order to ensure proper force and moment separation from the load measurements. Moreover, the student will estimate the minimum and maximum forces and moments that can be measured.
Weeks 7-9: The student will manufacture, assemble, program, and test the force balance. The student will program the data acquisition system. The student will conduct simple tests to calibrate the force balance using, for example, a series of laboratory weights to produce known forces and moments.
Weeks 10-12: The student will test the system on an example laboratory flow, namely, the flow over a hydrofoil at two different angles of attack. The student will evaluate the functioning of the force balance. The student will write a brief report summarizing the work conducted during the internship and explaining how the system can be improved based on the results. The remainder of the internship, time-permitting, will be devoted to improving the performance of the system.
Skills required: The student should be comfortable with electronics. Prior experience with Arduino or Raspberry Pi is recommended. Good mathematical and programming skills are required (e.g., MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW). Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software is an asset. The available CAD software are CATIA and SolidWorks. The student should have a good understanding of undergraduate fluid mechanics (e.g., pressure and velocity fields) and be comfortable with performing hands-on (experimental) work.
40. Development, Data Management, Certification, and Testing of a Smart Thermostat
- Field data from environmental sensors should be downloaded from UofG campus once a day.
- The thermostat should be packaged using engineering design skills for field deployment.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data driven algorithms may be developed for the thermostat logic.
- Electric circuit design may be applied for wiring, power supply, and communications with the thermostat.
- A modem (e.g. satellite) may be installed for automating remote data retrieval from site sensors.
- Certification of the thermostat may be pursued with relevant code and standard authorities.
- Graduate students may be helped with their needs on a flexible basis.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Smart thermostats adjust building temperature and humidity setpoints according to occupancy status, building use, and live energy pricing. This technology can reduce building electricity and fossil fuel consumption and therefore the environmental impact of buildings by lowering their greenhouse gas emissions. This technology also reduces energy costs for buildings. The Atmospheric Innovations Research (AIR) lab is developing a smart thermostat for implementation in real buildings. A thermostat is already made and needs to be refined, certified, and pilot-tested on some buildings in Guelph. An undergraduate student is being sought after to help with the smart thermostat project.
Student roles: - Student is expected to be physically present at the job every day. No remote work is possible. - Student should go to the field site, University Avenue on UofG campus, and download data daily. - Student should be available to visit buildings in Guelph to install, monitor, and trouble-shoot the thermostat.
Skills required: - Students from mechanical, electrical, systems and computer engineering programs are preferred. - The student should have a windows-based laptop in good condition to collect field data. - Knowledge in computer programming is essential, especially python programming. - Knowledge in electric circuits and sensors are essential. - Knowledge in post-processing of environmental data using python programming is essential.
41. Digital Light Processing of Nanomaterials Reinforced Ultraviolet Curable Thermosetting Composites
Additive manufacturing (AM) has evolved as an ultimate solution to manufacture smart polymer materials with complex geometry. Digital light processing (DLP) is a vat photopolymerization technique for printing ultraviolet (UV) curable resins with a higher print speed and resolution, compared to the most common extrusion polymer printing technique. Therefore, DLP is now being used by researchers for high-performance applications like low-run molds, lightweight structural components, and many others. The performance of these printed resin parts can exceed when an appropriate reinforcing nanomaterial like carbon nanotube (CNT) or glass fiber is composited in DLP. Printing such polymer composite in DLP offers huge potential in applications where parts with higher strength-to-weight ratios are crucial. Not only mechanical strength but also electrical and magnetic properties can also be tailored when composting with suitable nanomaterials. The effectiveness of such composite can even be enhanced if the reinforcing nanomaterials can be directionally oriented during printing. While typical composites have fibers oriented randomly, the goal of this proposal is to print resin composites with nanomaterials aligned with the desired direction. Therefore, the proposal aims to modify an existing DLP system to integrate with an external permanent magnet or a solenoid to align the reinforcing fibers dispersed in the resin bath. The research will also involve surface treatment of nanomaterials to enhance their magnetic responsiveness. As a potential application, if thermoset shape memory polymer (TSMP) composited with electrically conductive and aligned CNT can be printed as a resistive polymer, thermal activation can be self-triggered on demand.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Mohammad Khondoker's areas of interest include developing smart additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, 3D printing of unconventional materials, designing polymer-based composite materials, chemical processing or treatments of functional materials, synthesis of nanomaterials, and rheological/mechanical characterizations. Dr. Khondoker has previously developed AM systems to print liquid metal-based stretchable electronics, parts made of intermixed extrudates of chemically immiscible polymers, devices consisting of extremely soft thermoplastic elastomers, etc.
Student roles: The students will seek to determine which materials (both resin and reinforcements) are suitable for DLP technology, the surface treatments of the nanomaterials, optimal material composition, processing parameters, design considerations for shape memory polymers, and applications, and the final part properties. The goal of this project is to demonstrate the technical capability and proof-of-concept of DLP processing of reinforced resin composites with aligned fiber. The specific tasks of the students in this project are to (1) identify at least a pair of compatible resin/fiber materials for DLP printing, (2) perform surface treatment of the reinforcing fiber material to enhance magnetic responsiveness (if necessary), (3) modify an existing DLP printer and integrate with an external magnetic system, and (4) develop optimized DLP printing recipe/protocols of such composites for improved mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. Once the technical demonstration is performed, the students will also aim to manufacture composites of thermoset shape memory polymer (TSMP) reinforced with suitable fibers, which may act as a resistive system to introduce thermally activated self-excitation of the SME. Besides the progressive research activities, the students will also contribute to one journal publication.
Skills required: The ideal student candidate for this project should have experience with mechanical design and CAD modeling, material science and characterization, and polymer 3D printing. Experience with SEM, rheological analysis, and UV curable vitrimer epoxy would be an added advantage.
42. Dust control to improve air quality in poultry and swine barns
Supervisor: Huiqing Guo
University: University of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon campus)
The objective of this project is to develop a dust removal device to attach to the existing recirculation fans in poultry and swine barns to improve the air quality. Most swine and poultry barns have air recirculation fans to temper incoming air and help improving air distribution. Attaching a dust filtration device to these fans, including existing fans or new addition, would effectively remove dust with this simple, low cost, low-maintenance device. This airborne dust removal device will be designed, attached to the recirculation fans and tested in lab, then in the layer barn on U of S campus, and in the swine barn at Prairie Swine Centre. Its efficiency for dust control, the resultant air quality improvement in the barns, and econmics will be tested and analysed.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Guo specializes in research and teaching in the area of controlled environment for greenhouses and livestock barns. She developed the odour setback distance model OFFSET for livestock operations, set odour guidelines for the Province of Saskatchewan, and proposed comprehensive indoor air quality index for animal barns. Her research group also developed technologies for greenhouse energy saving and dehumidification.
Student roles: The student will be working together with graduate student(s) and supervisor, conduct literature review, select a final design from the reviewed alternatives, build a prototype, and move into lab-based testing.
Skills required: A student in mechanical, agricultural or biological engineering should have the academic background to work on this project, propose the design, build and conduct lab test in 4 months.
43. EnergyPlus-Based Simulation of Passive Building Strategies for Improving Energy Performance and Indoor Thermal Comfort
Supervisor: Dahai Qi
University: Université de Sherbrooke
Location: Sherbrooke, Québec
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engg-Environmental, Engineering, Engg-Systems and Technology
This research project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different passive building strategies in reducing energy consumption and improving indoor thermal comfort using EnergyPlus-based building performance simulation. Passive methods such as enhanced roof and wall insulation, improved window performance, external shading, natural ventilation, reduced air infiltration, reflective roofing materials, and optimized building envelope design will be investigated.
A representative building model will be developed and calibrated using available building information and measured indoor environmental data. After calibration and validation, parametric simulations will be conducted to compare the performance of different passive design scenarios under selected weather conditions. Key outputs will
This research is particularly relevant for existing buildings, long-term care facilities, and residential or institutional buildings where improving indoor comfort and reducing energy use are important. The results can support evidence-based recommendations for building retrofit design, energy codes, and sustainable building guidelines.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The project research focuses on building energy simulation, indoor environmental quality, and climate-resilient building design. I use simulation tools such as EnergyPlus and DesignBuilder to evaluate building thermal performance, energy consumption, indoor temperature variation, and the effectiveness of passive and active mitigation strategies. My research emphasizes building envelope performance, ventilation, infiltration, shading, thermal insulation, and passive cooling/heating methods, with the goal of improving energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and resilience under current and future climate conditions.
Student roles: The student will be responsible for developing and analyzing EnergyPlus-based building simulation models to evaluate the performance of different passive building strategies. The main tasks will include collecting building information, preparing geometry and construction inputs, defining internal loads, schedules, HVAC assumptions, ventilation settings, and weather files for the simulation model. The student will conduct parametric simulations to compare the impact of each passive method on indoor thermal comfort and building energy performance. Simulation outputs such as indoor temperature, heating and cooling loads, energy use intensity, peak demand, and overheating hours will be analyzed. In addition, the student will be expected to organize simulation results, create clear figures and tables, interpret findings, and contribute to technical reports, presentations, and research publications. The role requires careful model setup, systematic data processing, and critical analysis of how passive strategies can improve building performance under different weather and climate conditions. Through this project, the student will gain practical experience in building energy modeling, passive design assessment, climate-resilient building simulation, and evidence-based retrofit evaluation.
Skills required: The student should have a background in civil, mechanical, architectural, or building engineering. Basic knowledge of building physics, heat transfer, HVAC systems, and indoor thermal comfort is required. Experience with building energy simulation tools such as EnergyPlus, DesignBuilder, Jeplus, or similar software is preferred. Skills in data analysis, model calibration, sensitivity analysis, and programming tools such as Python, MATLAB, or Excel would be beneficial. The student should also have problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret simulation results and prepare technical reports.
44. Experimental Investigation of Microfluidics Devices
Supervisor: Reza Sabbagh
University: University of Alberta (Edmonton campus)
This project focuses on the development and optical characterization of microfluidic devices for controlled fluid manipulation and flow analysis at the microscale. The interns will collaboratively or independently work on designing, fabricating, and testing microfluidic platforms with integrated flow control components. The project will involve 3D design modeling of microfluidic geometries using CAD software, enabling rapid prototyping and iterative development of device layouts.
A key aspect of the research involves implementing measurement techniques such as particle image velocimetry (PIV), or flow visualization to quantify flow behavior within microchannels. If imaging involves, high-resolution imaging systems will be used to capture real-time flow data, which will be processed and analyzed using custom scripts developed in MATLAB. Digital microfluidics may be used in some applications.
Interns will gain hands-on experience in microfabrication techniques using additive manufacturing, optical system setup, and image-based flow diagnostics. They will also be responsible for writing MATLAB code for data acquisition, image analysis, and quantitative evaluation of flow dynamics. The integration of 3D modeling, experimental techniques, and programming will provide a comprehensive learning experience in both engineering design and scientific research.
This project aims to produce functional microfluidic prototypes with validated flow performance and detailed flow field data, supporting broader applications in microscale fluid dynamics research.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on the development of microfluidic systems for precision fluid manipulation and real-time flow characterization. This includes the design and fabrication of microfluidic devices, integration of flow control elements, and application of advanced optical diagnostics such as particle image velocimetry (PIV), fluorescence imaging, and high-speed visualization. The goal is to enable high-resolution, quantitative analysis of microscale fluid dynamics for applications in biomedical diagnostics, lab-on-a-chip systems, and soft robotics.
Student roles: • Device Design and Modeling: Create and refine 3D models of microfluidic components using SolidWorks software. • Fabrication and Assembly: Prototyping and fabrication of microfluidic chips using additive manufacturing techniques or other fabrication methods. • Experimental Setup and Operation: Set up and calibrate optical systems for flow diagnostics, including cameras, microscopes, lasers/LEDs, and PIV or fluorescence imaging equipment. • Data Collection and Analysis: Conduct experiments to capture flow behavior; develop and use MATLAB scripts for image processing, data extraction, and quantitative flow analysis. • Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed lab notebooks, prepare presentation materials, and contribute to reports summarizing methods, results, and interpretations. • Collaboration: Work effectively in a small team, share findings regularly, and participate in discussions to troubleshoot problems and improve experimental outcomes.
Skills required: 1. CAD and 3D Modeling: Experience with SolidWorks for designing microfluidic devices or mechanical components. 2. Programming: Proficiency in MATLAB for data analysis, image processing, and basic algorithm development; 3. Data Analysis: Strong analytical skills for processing experimental data, interpreting flow measurements, and generating quantitative results. 4. Optical/Imaging Systems: Basic understanding of optics, or imaging systems is desirable. Prior experience with particle image velocimetry (PIV) is an advantage. 5. Microfabrication: Exposure to fabrication techniques such as 3D printing, soft lithography, or cleanroom processes 7. Documentation and Communication: Document technical work, experimental procedures, and research outcomes and participate in team
45. Experimental Study of Hydrogen Combustion Characteristics at Low Temperatures
Hydrogen is expected to play a key role in achieving net-zero emissions and offers a potential clean alternative to diesel for heavy-duty transportation. Realizing this potential requires efficient large-scale storage and transportation, typically involving liquefied or high-pressure hydrogen. However, serious safety concerns remain, particularly the risk of explosions due to accidental leaks and the formation of low-temperature combustible clouds when hydrogen mixes with air. The Globalink student will participate in a research program that aims to support the global transition toward net-zero emissions by establishing a comprehensive scientific foundation for predicting, mitigating, and ultimately controlling hydrogen explosions across a wide range of temperatures and operating environments. The student will conduct experiments to better understand the combustion characteristics of hydrogen at low temperatures, which remain a major barrier to wider adoption due to the novelty of hydrogen use in such environments. The proposed experiments will be carried out in a shock tube developed by the research group. A high-speed video camera will be used to capture flame evolution. The experimental results will advance the fundamental understanding of low-temperature hydrogen flame laminar burning velocity and its dependence on flame stretch rate, providing benchmark data for validating thermodynamic and chemical mechanisms in simulations.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Yang’s research integrates experimental, numerical, and analytical approaches to enhance the fundamental understanding of combustion characteristics in reactive flows, with applications in industrial explosions, detonation hazard mitigation, and propulsion.
Student roles: Performing experiments, analyzing data, and preparing a final report at the end of the internship
Skills required: The student should have a strong background in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering, or a closely related field. Prior laboratory experience is preferred. Familiarity with data processing tools such as Python is also desirable.
46. Exploiting Turbulence for Furthering Engineering
To appreciate flow turbulence and renewable energy. To investigate new ways to engineer turbulence to improve the performance of energy conversion systems. A balance between fundamental/curiosity driven and applied engineering research.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Utilizing flow turbulence to further engineering system performance. The primarily focus is to maximize the exploitation of nearly-omnipresent flow turbulence to improve the performance of green energy systems.
Student roles: Conduct literature review, wind tunnel experiments, and/or computational fluid dynamic simulations. Analyze results, compile the findings in writing and update/present to the supervisor regularly. Ideally, near the end of the intern, the intern, in collaboration with the advisor, should be able to make at least one high-quality scientific/academic publication.
Skills required: A teachable, keen, curious and creative mind . Basic fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and heat transfer knowledge. Desired but not mandatory: experimental and numerical skills.
47. Finite Element Analysis of Porous Additively Manufactured Metals
Supervisor: Sayyed Ali Hosseini
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Additive manufacturing (AM) constructs geometries by depositing material layer-by-layer according to design specifications. Initially, AM was introduced as a prototyping process using thermoplastic polymers. However, with recent technological advancements, it has become easier to use AM for creating metallic parts. Although AM offers significant flexibility in crafting complex metallic parts, a major challenge preventing its widespread application is the lack of dimensional accuracy and poor surface quality, which make post-process finish machining necessary as a subtractive process. In machining, material is removed from the workpiece to achieve the desired final part. AM process parameters, such as build direction, deposition rate, scan speed, and layer thickness, significantly influence the mechanical properties of the workpiece material and, consequently, have a substantial impact on machinability during the subsequent finish machining. Therefore, post-process finish machining requires an understanding of material behavior. This project aims to conduct Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using ABAQUS, ANSYS, or similar FEA software to study the mechanical behavior of additively manufactured parts. It also aims to consider potential porosity in the metals produced by fused filament fabrication as an influential factor, incorporating it as an input to the FE model. Participants will gain extensive FEA skills, along with hands-on experience in conducting experiments and using lab equipment.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My Research is mainly focused on advanced manufacturing processes including machining and metal additive manufacturing. My research covers areas such as simulation of machining operations and modelling material behavior particularly advanced difficult-to-cut materials such as titanium and superalloys that are widely used in aerospace industry. I am currently focused on post-process finish machining of additive manufactured metallic parts and studying their mechanical properties.
Student roles: The initial task is to review the information relevant to the machinability and material characteristics of additively manufactured metals, previously gathered by summer students in 2022 and 2023. Upon completing this first phase (lasting 2-3 weeks), the student will engage in configuring a test setup, which includes conducting tensile tests to obtain basic mechanical properties, performing milling tests, and measuring cutting forces. The acquired forces will be used to check the validity of the Finite Element Model. Additionally, the student will capture and analyze cutting forces using a dynamometer. Responsibilities also include writing reports and manuals. Required training will be provided to ensure safety.
Skills required: The successful candidate must possess a strong background in engineering, design, mathematics, and programming. Additionally, the candidate should demonstrate honesty, self-motivation, punctuality, and a passion for discovery. Knowledge of manufacturing processes (both additive and subtractive), material behavior, data acquisition, and proficiency in Finite Element Modelling along with MATLAB or Python programming are advantageous. The candidate must be capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a team. Strong written and oral English communication skills are essential assets.
48. Flow boiling and Condensation in Plate Heat Exchangers
This project addresses the experimental characterization of two-phase heat transfer in plate heat exchangers including pool boiling, flow boiling, and condensation heat transfer. The experimental results will be used to develop an improved understanding of two-phase heat transfer dynamics, develop predictive models to design and enhance two-phase heat exchange devices for specific industrial applications.
The experimental research program builds upon existing experimental apparatuses used for fundamental two-phase heat transfer research and extends into specific device-level applications such as thermosyphons or other industrial application-based test setups.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Our research combines classical thermal-fluids science and heat transfer with innovative additive manufacturing technologies and materials to support the development of a new generation of energy transport, exchange, and conversion technologies.
It involves the additive manufacturing heat exchange components and technologies, fundamental and applied boiling and condensation research, thermal interface materials and electronics cooling technologies. Our research leverages the strengths of experimental research with analytical and numerical modelling to create impactful scientific contributions and innovative R&D deliverables to industrial partners.
Student roles: Students will design, fabricate, and operate apparatuses for the characterization of heat transfer and two-phase flow. They will develop technical drawings, perform engineering design calculations and simulations, fabricate the components, and characterize and assess the performance of these apparatuses. In addition, students will prepare samples, perform thermal measurements, assess the results, and make comparisons to established models. They will communicate their findings orally during weekly meetings and will author a final paper which for submission to a conference or a journal at the end of their project.
Skills required: Good working knowledge of Mechanical Engineering Excellent practical, hands-on abilities Ability to fabricate and test components Experimental data collection and analysis Good verbal, written and presentation communication skills Able to self-motivate and work well with limited direction Creative thinkers
49. Generation of Thermal Surrogate Models for the Control of Multi-Unit Residential Buildings
Supervisor: José Candanedo
University: Université de Sherbrooke
Location: Sherbrooke, Québec
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engg-Systems and Technology, Engineering
This project consists of creating an EnergyPlus model of a four-storey, multi-unit residential building (MURB) with six units per floor (24 units in total), using typical layouts and common practices, with a particular focus on hydronic mechanical system configurations commonly used in Québec, Canada.
The student will then use this EnergyPlus model to generate “information-rich” data that will serve as the basis for surrogate models for control purposes, for the individual residential units, building sections and the whole building. A dataset will be created by running simulations under a variety of weather conditions (e.g., drastic outdoor temperature changes, varying solar radiation levels) and setpoint profiles (abrupt changes from nighttime to daytime). The simulation outputs will include indoor temperatures, comfort variables, heating and cooling loads, and the corresponding electric loads.
Once this dataset is available, and depending on time constraints and the progress of the student, the student will develop surrogate models (using a variety of techniques, such as machine learning, ARX grey-box models, RC models, graph models, etc.) to predict HVAC and electrical loads based on past and expected conditions as well as control variables (such as setpoint profiles or heat pump operation).
Ultimately, these surrogate models will be used to rapidly predict upcoming HVAC and electrical loads based on historical data, forecasted weather conditions, occupant behaviour and dynamic control variables (e.g., setpoints). This information will provide valuable insights into scalable, data-driven control strategies.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on building energy management, specifically HVAC systems, renewable integration, and novel mechanical systems. I am particularly interested in advanced control algorithms, such as model-based predictive control, and their role in building-to-grid interaction. To support this, I develop "digital twins" with an appropriate level of complexity for designing and testing control strategies. Additionally, I study thermal energy storage management to enhance energy exchanges with the grid and other carriers.
Student roles: 1. Modelling of a Multi-Unit Residential Building (MURB): The student will develop the detailed geometry and thermal layout of the building using EnergyPlus or DesignBuilder, ensuring the accuracy of structural and energy parameters.
2. Design of Parametric Simulation Scenarios: He or she will design baseline scenarios to test various variables (weather, setpoints, loads). The use of EMS scripting will enable the simulation of complex control logic and the overriding of actuators in EnergyPlus, if needed.
3. Dataset Creation and Structuring: Based on the simulations, the student will use Python and the Pandas library to extract, clean, and structure the generated data to build a clean, usable database.
4. Surrogate Model Development (Time Permitting): If the schedule allows, the student will explore the creation of surrogate or reduced-order models (e.g., via Scikit-Learn or RC models) to quickly approximate the building's thermal behaviour.
5. Final Report Writing: The project will conclude with the writing of a clear summary report, documenting the methodology, the data structure, and the results obtained.
Skills required: The student is expected to have an intermediate level of familiarity with EnergyPlus (or DesignBuilder) to develop the building's geometry and thermal layout. Prior experience with weather file management in EnergyPlus is considered an asset. The ability to utilize EnergyPlus Energy Management System (EMS) scripting to override actuators and simulate complex control logic is highly desirable. Furthermore, the position requires proficiency in Python for data analysis (Pandas) along with an introductory understanding of surrogate or reduced-order modelling approaches (e.g., Scikit-Learn, RC models).
50. Heat-Driven Energy Harvesting Using a Self-Oscillating Fluidic Heat Engine (SOFHE)
This project aims to develop and optimize a thermal energy harvester based on a self-oscillating fluidic heat engine (SOFHE). SOFHE is a two-phase microfluidic system in which heating induces vapor bubble formation and growth, leading to self-sustained oscillations of a liquid–vapor interface. These oscillations generate pressure fluctuations that can be converted into usable electrical energy through an electromechanical transducer.
The project will focus on understanding and enhancing the energy conversion mechanisms governing SOFHE performance. Key objectives include identifying the parameters controlling oscillation stability, frequency, and amplitude, and finding a compatible electro-mechanical transducer for SOFHE. A particular emphasis will be placed on coupling the fluidic system to the transducer to evaluate the power density.
The goal is to demonstrate a compact, heat-driven energy harvester capable of generating sufficient power for low-energy applications such as wireless sensors in IoT systems. This work contributes to the development of self-powered microsystems and sustainable alternatives to battery-dependent devices.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on microscale thermofluidic systems for energy harvesting and advanced thermal management. I develop and characterize two-phase fluidic devices based on phase-change and capillary phenomena, including self-oscillating fluidic heat engines (SOFHE), heat-driven micro-pumps, and pulsating heat pipes. My work integrates experimental characterization, microfabrication, and system-level design to enable efficient heat-to-mechanical-to-electrical energy conversion. A key objective is to create compact, self-powered, and self-regulated systems that operate without external energy input. These technologies target applications in the Internet of Things (IoT), electronics cooling.
Student roles: The student will contribute to the development and experimental investigation of a self-oscillating fluidic heat engine (SOFHE) for thermal energy harvesting. Initially, the student will gain familiarity with the operating principles of two-phase oscillatory systems and the experimental setup. They will assist in designing and assembling test devices, including microfluidic channels and transducers. A major part of the work will involve experimental characterization. The student will perform experiments to measure pressure fluctuations, oscillation frequency, and amplitude using pressure sensors and high-speed imaging. These measurements will be used to reconstruct thermodynamic cycles and estimate mechanical power output. The student will also investigate the effect of design parameters such as geometry, working fluid, and temperature on system performance. Data analysis and interpretation will be conducted using tools such as Python or MATLAB. The student will contribute to optimizing system performance and identifying key physical mechanisms governing energy conversion. In addition, the student will document experimental procedures, prepare figures, and present results during group meetings. Opportunities may exist to contribute to publications or conference presentations. This project provides hands-on experience in thermofluidics, experimental research, and energy systems, while contributing to the development of self-powered technologies.
Skills required: The ideal candidate has a background in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field. Knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics is required, while familiarity with two-phase flows or microfluidics is an asset. Experience with experimental work, instrumentation, and data analysis is desirable. Skills in CAD (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) and programming (Python or MATLAB) are a plus. The student should be motivated, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a laboratory environment, with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
51. Heat-Driven Micro Pump for Next-Generation Electronic Cooling
This project aims to develop a novel heat-driven microfluidic pump for cooling high heat flux electronic devices. As modern processors used in artificial intelligence, data centers, and high-performance computing generate increasing heat loads, conventional cooling approaches face significant limitations in efficiency, scalability, and energy consumption.
The proposed approach leverages a Self-Oscillating Fluidic Heat Engine (SOFHE) coupled with a micro jet pump to enable fluid circulation driven directly by heat. Unlike conventional pumps, this system requires no moving parts or external electrical input. Instead, phase-change-induced oscillations generate pressure fluctuations that drive flow through a jet pump, creating a compact and self-regulated cooling solution.
The project will focus on evaluating the feasibility of this concept for chip cooling applications, where target flow rates are on the order of 10–100 mL/min. Experimental characterization will be conducted to quantify flow rate, pressure head, and thermal performance under different operating conditions. In parallel, design optimization will explore the role of geometry, fluid properties, and heat input on system efficiency.
The expected outcome is a proof-of-concept demonstration of a fully heat-driven cooling loop, capable of adapting its performance to thermal load without active control. This approach represents a new paradigm in thermal management—using waste heat as the driving force for cooling—potentially reducing energy consumption and system complexity in next-generation electronic systems.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on microscale thermofluidic systems for advanced thermal management and energy applications. I develop and characterize two-phase microfluidic devices, including self-oscillating fluidic heat engines (SOFHE), heat-driven micro pumps, and pulsating heat pipes, to enable efficient heat transport and energy conversion. My work integrates microfabrication, 3D printing, experimental characterization, and system-level design to address high heat flux challenges in electronics and energy systems. A key objective is to leverage phase-change phenomena and capillary effects to create compact, passive, and self-regulated thermal solutions. These technologies have strong potential for applications in microelectronics cooling, battery thermal management, and autonomous microfluidic.
Student roles: The student will play an active role in the design, fabrication, and experimental characterization of the heat-driven microfluidic pump. Initially, the student will become familiar with the operating principles of the SOFHE and the micro jet pump, as well as the experimental setup. They will assist in the preparation and assembly of test devices, including microfabricated components and fluidic connections. A key responsibility will be conducting experiments to evaluate system performance. This includes measuring flow rates, pressure fluctuations, and temperature distributions under different operating conditions. The student will also contribute to data acquisition and analysis, using tools such as Python or MATLAB to process and interpret results. The student will participate in design iterations, exploring how parameters such as channel geometry, heat input, and working fluids influence performance. This may involve CAD modeling and interaction with fabrication processes such as 3D printing or microfabrication.
In addition, the student will contribute to documenting results, preparing figures, and presenting findings in group meetings. There may also be opportunities to contribute to scientific publications or conference presentations, depending on project progress. Overall, the student will gain hands-on experience in microfluidics, heat transfer, and experimental research, while contributing to the development of an innovative cooling technology with strong industrial relevance.
Skills required: The ideal candidate will have a background in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field with strong fundamentals in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Experience with heat transfer, microfluidics, or two-phase flow is an asset. Familiarity with experimental work, data analysis, and basic instrumentation is desirable. Skills in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks or Fusion 360) and/or programming (Python, MATLAB) are beneficial. The student should be motivated, curious, and comfortable working in a laboratory environment. Strong problem-solving abilities and communication skills are important, as the project involves both hands-on experimentation and interpretation of results.
52. High-Fidelity Computational Analysis of Fluid-Structure-Odor Interactions in Fish Schooling Configurations
Supervisor: Muhammad Saif Ullah Khalid
University: Lakehead University (Thunder Bay campus)
This research project investigates fluid-structure-odor interactions in fish schooling configurations using high-fidelity computational modeling. Fish rely on multiple sensory mechanisms, including hydrodynamic, visual, acoustic, and chemical cues, to navigate complex aquatic environments and coordinate collective behaviors. While the hydrodynamic interactions within fish schools have received considerable attention, the coupled effects of body flexibility, flow dynamics, and odor transport remain poorly understood. The project will develop and apply advanced computational frameworks that integrate fluid dynamics, structural mechanics, and scalar transport modeling to examine how odor signals are generated, transported, distorted, and detected within the unsteady flow fields created by schooling fish. Numerical simulations will be performed for multiple schooling arrangements and swimming conditions to quantify the influence of fish spacing, relative positioning, body flexibility, and swimming kinematics on the evolution of odor plumes and surrounding flow structures. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding how hydrodynamic wakes alter the transport of chemical cues and how collective swimming behavior affects the availability and distribution of sensory information within a school. The project will also investigate the potential benefits and limitations of schooling for odor-based sensing and information transfer in aquatic environments. The outcomes of this research will advance fundamental knowledge of biological sensing and collective locomotion while providing design principles for next-generation bio-inspired underwater vehicles, environmental monitoring systems, and autonomous robotic platforms that utilize sensing strategies inspired by nature.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research specializes in nature-inspired and biomimetic engineering, with a focus on computational modeling of fluid-structure interactions and multi-physics systems. I develop advanced numerical methods to investigate the mechanics of biological and bio-inspired systems operating in complex aerodynamic and hydrodynamic environments. My work integrates computational fluid dynamics, structural mechanics, nonlinear dynamics, and data-driven analysis to study propulsion, energy harvesting, flow sensing, and collective behavior in natural and engineered systems. Applications of this research include underwater and aerial robotics, renewable energy technologies, biological locomotion, and multimodal sensing inspired by living organisms.
Student roles: The student will play an active role in the computational investigation of fluid-structure-odor interactions in fish schooling configurations. Under the direct supervision of the PI, the student will contribute to literature review, computational model development, simulation setup, data analysis, and dissemination of research findings. Specific responsibilities will include preparing and modifying computational geometries, generating high-quality numerical meshes, setting up and executing simulations using an in-house immersed-boundary method-based solver, VorteXdyn, and post-processing large datasets using tools, including MATLAB and Python. The student will assist in analyzing hydrodynamic flow structures, odor transport mechanisms, and interactions between flexible fish-like bodies within various schooling arrangements. The student will also help evaluate the effects of swimming kinematics, body flexibility, and positioning of fish on collective sensing and locomotion performance. In addition, the student will participate in regular research meetings, present progress updates, maintain detailed documentation of computational procedures and results, and contribute to the preparation of technical reports, conference presentations, and journal manuscripts. Through these activities, the student will gain hands-on experience in computational fluid dynamics, fluid-structure interactions, scalar transport modeling, scientific computing, and multidisciplinary research at the interface of engineering and biology. The role is designed to provide comprehensive research training while enabling the student to make meaningful contributions to advancing knowledge in biomimetic engineering, biological sensing, and bio-inspired underwater systems.
Skills required: The ideal student should have a background in mechanical engineering or a related discipline. Experience with fluid mechanics, numerical methods, and computer programming is desirable. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD), as well as MATLAB or Python for data processing and visualization, would be beneficial. The student should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, an interest in biomimetics and biological systems, and the ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative research environment.
53. Influence of Moisture Exposure on the Mechanical Properties of Braided Composites Intended for Space Applications
Supervisor: Ahmed Samir Ead
University: University of Alberta (Edmonton campus)
Students selected for this project will help the ART research group work on the development of a novel space material constructed from high performance fibres. Aramid, the material used in bulletproof vests, has recently been found by our group to exhibit favourable properties in space applications when exposed to conditions akin to space. In addition to it's known impact resistance, aramid is very strong and stiff while remaining light. We have tested this novel material in UV radiation and thermal extremes typical to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), but much research remains in understanding the influence of vacuum (specifically, how vacuum reduces moisture content) on the performance of these materials. In particular, the hygral (or moisture-based) performance of this novel material has not been assessed by our team.
The research project will involve pushing the boundaries of the space industry by helping our team test the limits of this aramid-based material that we have discovered. More specifically, the selected student will work with a graduate student to learn how we develop this material and will be given an opportunity to manufacture and test this material in conditions that mimic those of LEO. Through the students' work, the moisture-based properties of our material will be understood, allowing us to make more informed decisions with manufacturing parameters to better design our material for space.
Students will get an opportunity to work in a diverse, friendly group at the University of Alberta. Our group believes that "good people make for good engineers" and we champion this by prioritizing mentorship and collaboration to help see all students succeed. Students selected will not only be involved in aerospace research, but will have a fun opportunity growing in a lovely research community.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on two main areas. Primarily, we develop high performance materials intended for space applications. Our research group is one of the few in Alberta that work in the aerospace research field by designing, manufacturing, modelling and testing materials in conditions that replicate space. Through these experimental characterization studies, we push the boundaries of space by developing novel materials for different space missions. The second research area my lab focuses on is biomedical rehabilitation. We work with surgeons from different clinical backgrounds to assess and experimentally compare different rehabilitation and surgical techniques.
Student roles: The student will work alongside a graduate student in my lab to help experimentally characterize the moisture-induced behaviour of aramid-based composite materials intended for space satellites. The project can be thought of as being broken down into three different components: 1) Training and Reading (2-3 weeks): During this time, students will be taught everything required to be able to complete the project. Students will be given some papers to read and some background to learn. During this time, the processes involved in designing, manufacturing and testing the materials will be demonstrated to the student. The selected student will shadow a graduate student during this time - all of our graduate students have been trained in leadership and mentorship and will guide the student as much or as little as needed. 2) Manufacturing and Testing (3-4 weeks): During this phase, students will implement the training from the first phase to manufacture and test samples in a number of conditions that will be determined by the Principal Investigator (Dr. Ead) and the graduate student. All equipment will be available and the student will have already received training on this equipment. Samples will be manufactured and exposed to moisture-conditions akin to space. After exposure, samples will then be tested and imaged to quantify the influence of moisture on their behaviour. 3) Documentation and Dissemination (2-3 weeks): After conducting testing and look at results, select students will be involved in putting together a journal article for the work (with authorship guaranteed). This process will be overseen by the graduate student and the Principal Investigator.
Skills required: Students background and education are preferred to be in mechanical engineering or materials engineering (not necessary, but preferred). Ideally, selected students will have had some experience with research in some capacity. Students can be in either their undergraduate or graduate degrees. Basic laboratory training will be required upon selection and arrival, however, no prior experience in the field is necessary.
54. Integrated modeling and experimental validation of vibration effects on optical performance: development of an instrumented test-bed
Vibration is an increasingly critical limiting factor in the performance of ground-based astronomical instrumentation, particularly in adaptive optics systems operating near faint natural guide stars. This project develops and validates a digital twin of the NRCIM Testbed, an instrumented opto-mechanical bench at NRC Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics, as a platform for advancing vibration mitigation technology applicable to next-generation observatories including the Extremely Large Telescopes.
The testbed comprises a welded steel bench structure supporting a multi-element optical system (source, two off-axis paraboloid relay mirrors, fold mirror, and wavefront sensor), instrumented with five triaxial accelerometers and driven by a modal exciter. A finite element model of the structure, developed in ANSYS, has been translated into a modal state-space model in MATLAB, and coupled with a Zernike linear optical model to form a complete structural-optical dynamic model.
The core scientific objective is to demonstrate that accelerometer measurements alone, processed through modal participation factor fitting and a real-time Kalman filter, can predict wavefront error at the sensor with sufficient fidelity to drive a tip-tilt mirror in feed-forward control without relying on wavefront sensor feedback. This is enabled by virtual sensing via modal expansion, in which FEM-derived mode shapes propagate the fitted modal state across the full opto-mechanical chain to unmeasured optical nodes.
In parallel, Bayesian Model Updating (BMU) and Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) are being developed to keep the digital twin calibrated as system behaviour evolves during operation, without interrupting science observations. Together, these capabilities establish a methodology directly transferable to operating astronomical facilities, supporting the long-term goal of smart observatory technology for ELT-class instruments.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: This research lies at the intersection of structural dynamics, opto-mechanical engineering, and astronomical instrumentation. The work focuses on developing and experimentally validating integrated models that predict the optical performance of telescope instruments under vibration disturbances. Using the NRC Integrated Modelling (NRCIM) toolset, which couples finite element structural models with linear optical sensitivity models, we develop modal state-space representations of opto-mechanical systems and validate them against accelerometer and wavefront sensor measurements. A central goal is virtual sensing via modal expansion: using accelerometer data to infer optical surface motions at unmeasured locations, enabling feed-forward vibration control independent of wavefront sensor.
Student roles: The student will contribute to the experimental validation and real-time implementation of the NRCIM digital twin, generally working across four interconnected areas under the supervision of Prof. Scott Roberts (UVic) and NRC collaborators. The work plan will be tailored depending on the student’s interest and skill set. These are the general areas of work:
Modal and wavefront sensor testing. The student will participate in vibration testing of the NRCIM Bench, acquiring simultaneous accelerometer and wavefront sensor data. This experimental work directly tests the virtual sensing methodology and the fidelity of the FEM-derived modal state-space model.
Real-time Kalman filter implementation. Building on the validated modal state-space model, the student will implement a real-time Kalman filter in MATLAB that continuously estimates the full structural state from streaming accelerometer data. This estimated state will be propagated through the linear optics model to predict wavefront error in real time, forming the core of the digital twin's estimation capability.
Bayesian Model Updating and Operational Modal Analysis. Working alongside Dr. Keivan Ahmadi's group at UVic, the student will contribute to the implementation of BMU and OMA algorithms that update model parameters from ambient vibration data during operation. This component ensures the digital twin remains calibrated without requiring dedicated test excitation.
Tip-tilt mirror closed-loop control. The student will support integration of the real-time state estimator with the tip-tilt mirror drive system, implementing feed-forward control commands derived from the Kalman filter output. Performance will be assessed by comparing residual wavefront error with and without feed-forward correction, providing an end-to-end demonstration of the digital twin's operational capability.
Skills required: Applicants should have a strong foundation in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with coursework in structural dynamics or vibration analysis, control systems, and signal processing. Familiarity with finite element modelling and modal analysis concepts is essential. Programming in MATLAB is required; Python experience is an asset. Some background in state-space modelling or Kalman filtering is highly desirable. An interest in precision instrumentation and experimental work is important, as the role involves hands-on laboratory testing. Prior exposure to optical systems or adaptive optics is not required but would be an advantage. Candidates should be comfortable working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
55. Integration of Optimization with Computer Aided Design
The development of Topology Optimization Methods (TOM) in 3D has been a very important subject of research for the last years. These methods are aimed at automating the process of design optimization and thus, they are based on applying analysis iterations on 3D geometries that are automatically modified throughout these iterations. The next step in the development of TOM is its integration within CAD platforms. Ideally the process should start from an initial CAD model along with boundary conditions (BCs) and optimization objectives, and automatically end with an optimized CAD model that fulfills these objectives, all of this without any other user interaction. This integration faces many challenges among which discriminating non-design material (material that should not be affected by the optimization process) and design material (material that is to be affected by the optimization process). We have developed our own TOM research platform and the integration of TOM within CAD uses the FEM for analysis and the SIMP method as the optimization method. Input of the overall optimization process is composed with an initial part, represented as a STEP file (along with BCs) and a second STEP file is used to represent non-design material. From this input data, the optimization process is fully automated and it results in an optimized shape. The SIMP method is used as the optimization method in itself, which is a classical scheme that has been adapted for the context of 3D optimization. It basically updates a density field throughout the initial design domain along FEA iterations in order to generate an optimal material distribution. It is worth noting that this project has a connection with a second project proposed by our team. Indeed, this project is focused on input of the optimization process while the other one is focused on output.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Geometric modelling
Mesh generation
Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
Optimization methods
For more details, please visit our website at:
http://www.uqtr.ca/ericca
Student roles: In the context of our research project as described above, the objective of the student's contribution is programming a user interface for the specification of design and non-design geometries that are used as input in the TOM process. This interface should allow the interactive, fast and efficient specification of the required input data for the TOM process. This interface should then be validated on practical TO studies.
The student should start with getting familiar with our research computer code development platform. Indeed, our research work led to the design of a computer code development platform that already features many geometric data processing, mesh generation, finite element analysis and topology optimization capabilities. This platform is based on CODE ASTER as FEA solver and OPEN CASCADE libraries for geometric processing.
The student should then explore the capabilities of the SALOME interface along with OPEN CASCADE libraries towards the objective of setting up a user interface for the specification of design and non-design geometries.
Then, the student should write and test the computer code required for designing this interface.
Once the interface fully functional, the student should validate it through a set of TO case studies performed on industrial parts.
Skills required: Background in engineering or computer science. Interest and knowledge in computer programming, 3D geometric modeling and computer aided design. Knowledge of Linux OS and would be considered as a plus.
56. Integration of human emotion in robot control during physical-social human-robot interaction
Supervisor: Christopher Yee Wong
University: Concordia University (Montréal campus)
How can we design robots and highly physical interactions with humans that holistically consider all aspects of a user’s wellbeing, whether physical, emotional, or otherwise, to enable safe, intuitive, and comfortable interactions? The proposed research project aims to examine the role and integration of the human emotion state and how it affects robot control, specifically during physical interactions between a human and a robot.
For example, if the robot were to grab a person’s arm in a robot-assisted physical assistance scenario, what kind of grasp should the robot perform and how can it adapt its grasp in real time to ensure comfort? How can a robot understand that a person wants to disengage from the robot? The research project aims to measure a wide variety of signals (physiological signals, facial expressions, body language, interaction force, etc) and develop a machine learning (ML) algorithm to estimate the human emotional state. Once developed, the next goal is to determine how the human emotional state can be integrated into robot control in both predictive feedforward and regulating feedback manners.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The Living with Assistive and Interactive Robots (LAIR) Lab at Concordia University focuses on examining physical and social human-robot interaction (psHRI) in order to achieve safe, comfortable, and intuitive interactions with autonomous robotic assistants in the areas of home care, retail, manufacturing, or healthcare. This is accomplished by using multimodal analysis of the human (e.g., posture, gesture, touch, emotion, physiological signals, etc.), compliant control algorithms, machine intelligence, and device design.
Student roles: The role of the student is to take part in designing and conducting the above research project, which will be led by a graduate student and extends beyond the Globalink student’s internship. The student may also have the opportunity to take ownership of a small portion of a project, either a specific portion of the pipeline or a specific interaction type. The role of the student is also to develop their skills and knowledge in ML and robot control: - Learn the current state of the art in the use of ML in robot control by reading scientific literature - Aid in designing experiments to gather the data during physical human-robot interactions - Aid in analyzing the data and developing ML models and integration into robot control - Write clear documentation - Meet weekly with the supervisor to discuss progress and project direction
Skills required: The ideal student will have a knowledge of robotics, machine learning, and be a strong programmer: - Proficient in programming (C++ or Python) - Experience with robot control and Robot Operating System (ROS) - Experience working with ML
57. Intelligent Flow Control and AI-Enabled Instability Suppression
Supervisor: Atef Mohany
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
The main objective of this project is to develop smart, intelligent flow control techniques to achieve specific objectives, such as increased lift, reduced drag, and reduced flow-induced noise. Both numerical simulations and experimental measurements will be performed in a high-speed wind tunnel.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: I am a Professor at Ontario Tech University and the founding Director of the Aerodynamics and Climatic Adaptation Research Center. My research is interdisciplinary, covering the fields of unsteady flow, aeroacoustics, fluid–structure interaction, flow-induced vibrations, and structural integrity.
Student roles: The student will be working closely with members of my research group who are working on the topic. The student will assist in the experimental measurements and will perform numerical simulations as needed.
Skills required: Strong background in aerodynamics and fluid mechanics is an asset.
58. Machinability Analysis of Additively Manufactured Metals
Supervisor: Sayyed Ali Hosseini
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Additive manufacturing (AM) constructs geometries by depositing material layer-by-layer according to design specifications. Initially, AM was introduced as a prototyping process using thermoplastic polymers. However, with recent technological advancements, it has become easier to use AM for creating metallic parts. Although AM offers significant flexibility in crafting complex metallic parts, a major challenge preventing its widespread application is the lack of dimensional accuracy and poor surface quality, which make post-process finish machining necessary as a subtractive process. In machining, material is removed from the workpiece to achieve the desired final part. AM process parameters, such as build direction, deposition rate, scan speed, and layer thickness, significantly influence the mechanical properties of the workpiece material and, consequently, have a substantial impact on machinability during the subsequent finish machining. Given this importance, the project aims to study the impact of the printing process on the mechanical properties and machinability of additively manufactured metals.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My Research is mainly focused on advanced manufacturing processes including machining and metal additive manufacturing. My research covers areas such as simulation of machining operations and modelling material behavior particularly advanced difficult-to-cut materials such as titanium and superalloys that are widely used in aerospace industry. I am currently focused on post-process finish machining of additively manufactured metallic parts.
Student roles: The initial task is to review the information relevant to the machinability of additively manufactured metals, previously gathered by my graduate students and summer students in 2023 and 2024. Upon completing this first phase (lasting 2-3 weeks), the student will engage in configuring a test setup, which includes conducting tensile tests to obtain basic mechanical properties, performing milling tests, and measuring tool wear for analysis. Additionally, the student will capture and analyze cutting forces using a dynamometer. Responsibilities also include writing reports and manuals. Required training will be provided to ensure safety.
Skills required: The successful candidate must possess a strong background in engineering, design, mathematics, and programming. Additionally, the candidate should demonstrate honesty, self-motivation, punctuality, and a passion for discovery. Knowledge of manufacturing processes (both additive and subtractive), material behavior, data acquisition, and proficiency in MATLAB or Python programming are advantageous. The candidate must be capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a team. Strong written and oral English communication skills are essential assets.
59. Machine learning based sensor fusion for indoor positioning system within green houses
Supervisor: Krishna Vijayaraghavan
University: Simon Fraser University (Surrey campus)
Food security is becoming increasing becoming one of the major concerns in the world. Agriculture is highly mechanized in countries like Canada. Canada is also increasingly adopting large green houses (indoor) owing to cold climate. Within agriculture, "precision agriculture" is the gaining increasing adoption owing to its ability to improve yeilds. Precision agriculture required precise positioning, with outdoor precision relying on real-time kinematic positioning (RKT) based global navigation satellite system (GNSS) systems. GNSS system tend to be unreliable indoor. This project will use of photo of the four walls of simulated green house to train a simple machine learning algorithms to recognize it relative position. This project will fuse this data with measurement from indoor positioning systems (such as Localino Indoor Positioning System) and use simple (mono-) camera. The project will use this information to move a toy-rover along a fixed path with a accuracy of <2cm
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Vijayaraghavan works on integrated physical and control system design optimization for complex system. With the establishment of the Agritech program within the department and the B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation at Simon Fraser University, he has begun focusing on system innovative agricultural technology.
Student roles: The student will use photos of simulated indoor space of green house to train a machine learning model to recognize distance (based on scale). The student will examine opensource indoor positioning system. The student will aim to program a small computer (such as Arduino) to perform sensor fusion and perform movement commands
Skills required: Background in robotics, audrino, and image processing would be beneficial. Background in Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) would be a bonus.
60. Magneto-Plasma-Dynamic-Thrusters in Underwater Propulsion: an Engineering Design Project
Supervisor: Arman Hemmati
University: University of Alberta (Edmonton campus)
This project focuses on engineering design of a novel propulsion technology for underwater systems, based on electro-magnetically induced acceleration. Using a combination of existing knowledge in literature and new out-of-the-box design concept from our group, coupled with numerical tests (simulations), this project aims to develop a new propulsion technology for underwater based on the MangetoPlasmaDynamicThruster concept. The first generation of this design was explored in 2024, followed up by conceptual designs in 2025 and 2026. This project involves extensive iterative numerical studies of different designs for the thruster system to achieve the desired thrust/power radio, within the design criteria for geometry and maximum power.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research area and expertise focuses on unsteady turbulent flow dynamics and modeling. This includes external and internal flows with applications in energy harvesting, energy storage, energy transportation, low emissions aerial, ground and underwater vehicles. Particularly, my team has developed a global reputation for research in the areas of unsteady turbulent wake dynamics and turbulent pipeflow dynamics. Moreover, our efforts have led to and continue to result in the development of new technologies and products, including next generation drones and nano-satellites, to expand our reach to the very low earth orbit.
Student roles: The student will complete literature review, develop design criteria and finalize a first prototype design of the umMDPT (underwater micro-MagnetroPlasmaDynamicThruster) technology, based on existing knowledge within the group. They will also complete iterative design CFD/FEA simulations to test and develop the initial MVP design.
Skills required: The student needs to have a good understanding of fluid mechanics, multi-physics modeling and design with familiarity in SolidWorks and ANSYS. The right candidate will need to complete literature review, develop a design of experiments, develop relevant CAD models and complete iterative tests.
61. Manufacturing and design of reconfigurable structures
Reconfiguration – changing shape, size, color, texture, to adapt to the surroundings – is a characteristic of living organisms that inspires engineers aspiring to build intelligent structures. Intelligent man-made structures require adding three main functionalities to the structural load-bearing members, namely: i. sensing – to detect any change in the environment, ii. processing or control – to determine the course of action based on this change, and iii. actuation – to reconfigure the structure to adapt to the change. The focus of this research program lies in fabricating high strength reconfigurable composite structures with embedded actuation, sensing, and controls.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Adaptive structures have the potential to considerably reduce emissions and fuel consumption by improving the aerodynamic performance of aircraft. Traditional materials used in aircraft for shape adaptation are never simultaneously lightweight, load-bearing, and shape adaptable. The project proposes to design and develop multifunctional composites via additive manufacturing by embedding smart materials for actuation into structural reinforced polymer composites to overcome the challenge of traditional materials. Additionally, multifunctional material models developed in this work will enhance the fundamental understanding of shape transformation behavior and its effect on the structural integrity of aircraft components to better design aircraft structures of the future.
Student roles: The tasks are for the project, which will be distributed between the students according to their background. 1. Thermal, chemical, mechanical and electrical characterization of smart functional composites. 2. Electromechanical characterization of smart composites. 3. Instrumentation and electrical circuity for the programming of smart composites. 4. Closed-loop electronics + programming for reconfigurable composites. 5. Automated fiber placement of composite materials 6. Design and fabrication of smart composites
Skills required: One or more of the following skills. I seek multiple students to form a team.
1. Wet-lab experience. 2. Experience with design and analysis softwares: CAD softwares and FE softwares 3. 3D printing 4. Electrical and electronic circuits and instrumentation. 5. Characterization experience.
62. Mechanical Design and Prototyping of a Soft Robotic Hand or Gripper
The rigid metal grippers commonly-used with robots in industry are not well suited for handling fragile objects (e.g., fruit). They are also not a good choice for collaborative robots that must work alongside people. A gripper made of soft materials is a much better solution. The research field of “soft robotics” is very active. The objectives of this project are to study the existing soft robotic grippers; and then design, manufacture and test a prototype gripper. The prototyping process will involve iterations of the design-build-test-learn cycle. This project will provide an opportunity to learn about this exciting field, and to develop and apply mechanical design and prototyping skills.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Designing robotic systems and creating control software, sensors and actuators with a focus on collaborative and autonomous robots. Mentoring students is a very important part of my job.
Student roles: The student is expected to study existing soft robotic grippers; and then design, manufacture and test a prototype gripper. They will be working as a member of the robotics research team at McMaster University.
Skills required: Knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) and solid modeling. Knowledge of finite element analysis (FEA). Some knowledge of pneumatics.
63. Mechanics of Soft Tissue Cutting and Deformation for Surgical Simulation
Supervisor: Mattia Bacca
University: University of British Columbia (Vancouver campus)
This project investigates how soft biological tissues deform and fail during cutting and indentation, with the goal of improving the physical realism of surgical simulation tools. Despite their importance, the mechanics of soft tissue cutting remains poorly understood, especially under large deformations.
The student will work on simplified mechanical models and numerical simulations to study how key material properties (e.g., stiffness, toughness) influence force response and deformation patterns. Depending on background, the project may include finite element simulations, data analysis of experimental measurements, or analytical modeling.
The project is modular and can accommodate multiple students working on complementary aspects (e.g., simulation, modeling, data analysis). The expected outcome is a clearer understanding of the physical mechanisms governing soft tissue deformation and cutting, and how these can inform more accurate simulation tools for biomedical applications.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: We study the mechanics of soft materials and biological tissues, with a focus on deformation, fracture, and cutting. Our work combines theoretical modeling, numerical simulation (finite elements), and experiments to understand how materials fail under complex loading. Applications include surgical procedures, biomechanics, and the development of more realistic simulation tools for medical training.
Student roles: The student will participate in ongoing research activities, including literature review, development of simple models or simulations, and analysis of results. They will work closely with the supervisor and research group, contribute to regular meetings, and present their findings at the end of the internship. The role is designed to provide hands-on experience with research in mechanics and biomedical applications.
Skills required: Background in mechanical or general engineering. Basic knowledge of mechanics of materials and/or continuum mechanics is helpful. Some programming experience (e.g., Python or MATLAB) is recommended. Familiarity with numerical methods or finite element analysis is a plus but not required. Strong analytical thinking and interest in biomechanics or materials are important.
You'll get to work with some really smart graduate students on some cool projects.
One project is all about how changes in the shape, rigidity, or age of red blood cells affect how they move through tiny blood vessels. We want to understand how these changes impact our health.
Another project is focused on how red blood cells interact with each other and affect how thick or thin the blood is in specific areas. This is important because it can impact how well oxygen and nutrients are delivered throughout the organs.
And finally, we're exploring how red blood cells flow through different types of networks in the body. This kind of research can help us understand how blood moves through our bodies and how we can design better treatments for diseases that affect circulation.
Keywords: Fluid mechanics, biomedical engineering, microcirculation, blood rheology, microfluidics, disease pathophysiology, medical treatments.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Blood flowing through tiny blood vessels in our body is not like water flowing through a pipe. It's actually more like a group of tiny flexible particles bouncing and interacting with each other.
Our laboratory is interested in understanding how blood behaves on this tiny scale, using really cool technology called microfluidics. We want to know how blood cells move and interact with each other, and how they respond to different forces and conditions. This kind of research can help us understand how diseases affect blood flow and circulation, and lead to new treatments and therapies.
Student roles: You'll be conducting microfluidics experiments, which means working with tiny amounts of fluids in a controlled environment. You'll also get to process data from these experiments, using different techniques like image processing to help us understand what's happening at the microscopic level. You'll be working alongside some of our brilliant grad students, and we'll all be sharing our findings in regular group meetings.
We are currently a small international team that is bilingual. Although we speak both languages, we mostly work in English because not everyone is proficient in both. However, we all make an effort to communicate and help each other out because we enjoy working together.
Skills required: We're seeking someone who knows about fluid mechanics and has basic programming knowledge ( e.g MATLAB). While biology understanding would be helpful, it's not a must-have. We provide on-the-job training, so no need to worry about lacking experience. If you have experience with advanced image processing, it would be beneficial, but we offer training if you don't. You'll have the chance to learn cutting-edge technologies such as microPIV, microfabrication, microfluidics, MEMS, and image processing. You should be meticulous, precise, and patient while working with small-scale experiments. We also value curiosity, teamwork, and enthusiasm.
Using the largest supercomputer in the world, Frontier (Oak Ridge National Laboratory), my research group and collaborators have performed Massive-Scale Direct Numerical Simulations to understand how turbulent mixing mechanisms vary across the relevant physical parameter space (spanned by dimensionless groups such as the Reynolds, Froude and Prandtl numbers). To analyze these datasets, which are many petabytes in size and highly anisotropic in space and time, this project seeks to apply a variety of machine-learning and data-driven techniques to identify dominant spatiotemporal correlations between mixing properties and local flow variables (e.g. components of the velocity and density gradient tensors, and dissipations rates of kinetic energy and scalar variance). This will result in a segmentation of the flow into differential dynamical regimes, each with different local properties. The automated nature of such techniques will enable an unbiased analysis of the statistical distributions of different mixing mechanisms across parameter space, thus facilitating the development of more universal and interpretable mixing models.
The student will have the opportunity to perform analyses on the Frontier supercomputer, providing them with valuable transferable skills including the use of numerical simulations to model physical processes, and machine learning and mathematical analysis techniques applied to big data.
A high-level description of work from our research group can be found here: <https://stratified-turbulence.github.io/web/>
A review of recent work in this research area can be found here: <https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-fluid-042320-100458>
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: This research program considers turbulence (chaotic fluid motions) in stratified flows (fluids with a background density gradient), as are encountered in a variety of geophysical, environmental, and industrial settings. A particular focus is on developing robust mathematical models for characterizing the turbulence-enhanced mixing of heat in the ocean, a leading area of uncertainty in global climate modelling. Through integrated analyses of data obtained from numerical simulations, laboratory experiments, and ocean observations, our group seeks to understand the variety of local physical mechanisms driving mixing, their statistical distributions in space and time, and their dependence on large-scale flow parameters and history.
Student roles: The student will first learn how to access and manipulate large stratified turbulence datasets which reside on a cluster. After getting comfortable with the data, they will focus on applying data-reduction and segmentation techniques (autoencoders, clustering algorithms etc) to identify dynamically-distinct regions of turbulence within the flow of a given simulation. If time permits, the student will then extend this analysis to consider variations in flow physics across other datasets. I will directly mentor the student for the entirety of the project, and we will have multiple meetings per week to facilitate their work.
Skills required: A course in fluid mechanics, knowledge of programming in Python (including manipulating large arrays of data using scientific libraries such as Numpy), experience using computing clusters (Linux). Experience using machine learning libraries (SciKit-Learn, TensorFlow etc) would also be useful.
66. Modeling medium depth geothermal systems for decarbonization of process heat
The increasing concerns of climate change and the need to limit the global temperature increase below 1.5°C above the pre-industrial levels require us to make a significant shift in the way we generate and use energy. Industry processes are among the significant energy users, giving rise to higher levels of CO2 emissions since most of the industry process heat comes from the burning of fossil fuels. A number of technologies are considered to have the potential for the decarbonization of process heat. These include high-temperature heat pumps, geothermal energy, and solar thermal, among others. However, the applicability of these technologies for different process heat requirements has not been widely studied. Moreover, there are limited studies that have considered the performance of such technologies under realistic operating conditions in Alberta. This project seeks to identify the industry process heat needs and develop concepts for meeting these needs using clean, renewable, and sustainable energy technologies. This specific project will develop models for medium-depth geothermal energy systems coupled with high-temperature heat pumps. Applying the fundamental engineering laws, the performance of the developed concepts will be evaluated, and their technical and economic feasibility established. Besides, models to determine the long-term performance of these systems will be developed and evaluated. If the student makes good progress, the coupling of these systems with actual loads and simulation of the systems over a long period of time and the potential for performance improvement with thermal recharge will be investigated.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research involves the application of the fundamental thermal fluid science principles to design and optimize sustainable thermal energy systems. The specific areas of my research interest include development, modeling, and optimization of sustainable thermal energy systems for different applications, including ground source heat pumps, solar assisted - air source heat pump, solar thermal technologies (including concentrating solar thermal and photovoltaic-thermal systems), thermal energy storage systems (including latent and sensible thermal energy storage systems), and alternative systems for heating and cooling. Our work is supported by computational fluid dynamics and finite element analysis simulations.
Student roles: The student will work with graduate students in the Sustainable Thermal Energy Systems research group at the University of Calgary to develop concepts for the production of process heat for different industrial applications using medium-depth geothermal technology. This will include a review of the state-of-the-art systems for process heat and their performance, developing concepts for medium-depth geothermal systems for various process heat industrial applications, develop numerical models to evaluate the developed concepts, and undertake techno-economic evaluations of the developed concepts to establish their feasibility in Alberta. The student will work with one graduate student and is expected to attend weekly group meetings and present their research to the rest of the group from time to time.
Skills required: Completion of the fundamental courses in Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics is essential. Students with experience in the use of computational fluid dynamics tools such as ANSYS Fluent or COMSOL Multiphysics have a better chance of succeeding in this project.
67. Modelling the microstructures of heterogeneous materials
With recent progress about CAD and numerical simulation, studying mechanical and thermal properties of heterogeneous materials can be performed virtually. Numerical simulation of heterogeneous materials is indeed of great interest to the scientific community since it is an attractive and economical solution to the problem of characterizing the thermomechanical behavior of heterogeneous materials. This requires setting up and automating the generation of detailed models of materials microtructures. Our team (équipe de recherche en intégration CAO-Calcul or ERICCA) at Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières has developped a platform for that, which is maily based on using solid modelling techniques along with finite element analysis. This platform is originally oriented towards studying heterogeneous particulate materials, but can be applied to all types of microstructures.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Geometric modeling
Mesh generation
Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
Optimization methods
For more details, please visit our website at:
http://www.uqtr.ca/ericca
Student roles: In the context of the research project as described above, the proposed work is focused on using the platform to study different combination of shape, size and distributions of material components. In this platform, the integration of CAD with automatic mesh generation methods allows for the automatic generation of the geometric model discretization. The student should help us towards demonstrating the potential of this CAD-FEA integrated approach in assessing mechanical and thermal properties of actual heterogeneous materials.
The student should start with getting familiar with our research computer code development platform. Indeed, our research work led to the design of a computer code development platform that already features many geometric data processing, mesh generation, finite element analysis and topology optimization capabilities. This platform is based on CODE ASTER as FEA solver and OPEN CASCADE libraries for geometric processing. Then, the student should use this platform with the objectives mentioned above
Skills required: Background in engineering or computer science. Interest and knowledge in computer programming, 3D geometric modeling and computer aided design. Knowledge of Linux OS and would be considered as a plus.
68. Next-Generation Clean Energy Systems for Cold Climates
Supervisor: Muhammad Taha Manzoor
University: University of Alberta (Edmonton campus)
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engg-Systems and Technology
The project aims to help decarbonize the industrial heat sector by developing next-gen low-carbon thermal energy systems. The decarbonization of the industrial heat sector, representing 74% of the total industrial energy demand, is critical for combating climate change. Currently, only 9% of this demand is met by renewable sources. One of the main reasons for the small low-carbon share is that low-carbon energy sources are intermittent in nature. Implementation of a highly intermittent heating infrastructure lacking long-duration storage (> 24 hr) is unreliable and compromises energy security, especially in harsh Canadian winter conditions. Low-carbon thermal energy systems can convert and store clean energy such as solar, nuclear or wind directly as heat for prolonged times and thus present a promising solution to these problems. In this project, we aim to build a lab-scale prototype of the system and evaluate its performance under various conditions to confirm the robustness of the system. The students joining the project will focus on designing a novel heat extraction and steam generation system that can deliver clean/green steam to industries requiring high-grade heat on demand.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research program is dedicated to addressing the decarbonization of high-temperature industrial heat through the development of advanced thermal energy conversion and storage systems such as small modular reactors, electric thermal energy storage systems and concentrated solar power. We focus on studying the fundamental heat transfer mechanisms involved in converting renewable energy such as solar, wind and nuclear into thermal energy. Employing a combination of experimental techniques and theoretical modeling, our group aims to optimize the design and performance of next-gen renewable thermal systems. Additionally, we explore low-cost materials suitable for high-temperature applications, reaching up to 1273 K.
Student roles: The student will work in collaboration with Renewable Thermal Lab (RTL) team consisting of master's and PhD students to build a lab-scale prototype for a next-gen low-carbon energy based thermal energy storage system. The prototype consists of various components, including a renewable energy to heat conversion system, thermal energy storage tanks, heat extraction system and steam generation system. The student will work on the design of heat extraction system and steam generation system that can be utilized to deliver steam at target temperatures and pressures on demand. The student will utilize Solid Works, MATLAB and Python to build models of the system and generate design diagrams that can be utilized by the RTL team to fabricate the system in the lab. The student will also work on selecting the appropriate instrumentation needed to validate their design on a lab-scale.
Skills required: The student is expected to be knowledgeable about fundamental heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. The student may need to utilize Computer Aided Design (CAD) software such as SolidWorks and programming software such as MATLAB to successfully complete their tasks. Laboratory experience is a plus but not mandatory. The student is expected to be a team player and must possess a high level of verbal and written communications skills.
69. Next-Generation Mechanical Systems: A Research Framework for AI-Enhanced Digital Twins
This project explores the development of AI-enhanced digital twins for next-generation mechanical systems. By integrating advanced machine learning algorithms with high-fidelity dynamic models, the research aims to create intelligent, real-time virtual replicas capable of simulating, predicting, and optimizing system behavior under varying operational conditions. The focus will be on complex mechanical systems such as space structures, heavy equipment, and vibration-sensitive platforms. Leveraging decades of expertise in intelligent system modeling and control, the project will investigate new methods for adaptive control, fault detection, and performance enhancement through continuous digital twin updates. The outcomes are expected to contribute to more resilient, efficient, and self-optimizing mechanical systems across critical engineering domains.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: With over 30 years of experience in intelligent system modeling, my research has consistently focused on the integration of advanced computational intelligence with mechanical system design and analysis. I have extensive expertise in the modeling, simulation, and dynamic analysis of complex mechanical systems, including space structures, heavy machinery, and vibration-sensitive equipment. My work has contributed to the development of intelligent control strategies for vibration mitigation in both human-machine systems and large-scale structures. Current research interests center on the convergence of digital twin technology and artificial intelligence, aimed at enabling predictive, adaptive, and self-optimizing mechanical systems for next-generation applications.
Student roles: The student will contribute to the development and testing of AI-enhanced digital twins for mechanical systems. Their role will include assisting with the modeling and simulation of mechanical components, implementing basic machine learning techniques, and analyzing system behavior using simulation tools. The student will also help integrate data from physical or simulated systems into digital twin models and support experiments related to intelligent control or performance optimization. Under guidance, they will document findings and may contribute to prototype development or research publications depending on progress.
Skills required: This project welcomes students from mechanical engineering, software engineering, and computer science backgrounds who have a strong interest in intelligent systems and emerging technologies. The ideal candidate should have:
A solid foundation in system modeling, dynamics, or control (mechanical or computational). Basic programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or C++) and familiarity with simulation tools. An interest in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data-driven modeling. A willingness to engage in interdisciplinary research that bridges physical systems and computational intelligence. Good analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a research team. Prior experience with digital.
70. Next-Generation Walker: Enhancing Elderly Mobility and Stability
The global increase in the aging population and individuals experiencing mobility challenges has resulted in greater reliance on assistive devices, including walkers and wheelchairs. Although wheelchairs provide essential mobility, they frequently limit opportunities for physical activity. In contrast, walkers are intended to help users maintain an upright posture and preserve lower-body strength and balance. Despite these advantages, many older adults still face significant challenges with routine movements, especially during safe sit-to-stand transitions.
Existing mobility aids exhibit several limitations. Many advanced assistive technologies are prohibitively expensive, necessitate fixed infrastructure, or offer inadequate protection against falls. These shortages may contribute to reduced independence, accelerated physical decline, social isolation, and increased caregiver burden. Although technologically advanced walkers are available, their high cost makes them inaccessible to many seniors who would benefit from them.
This project seeks to address these challenges by developing an affordable, portable, and user-centered mobility assistance device. The proposed solution integrates the advantages of a traditional walker with additional features intended to enhance safety, independence, and mobility. Key features include integrated sit-to-stand assistance, obstacle-detection sensors to reduce collision risk, motorized wheels for improved maneuverability, and adaptability to various indoor and outdoor environments. The design also emphasizes cost-effectiveness to ensure accessibility for typical users.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Abdullah's research focuses on the development of robotic systems, with a particular emphasis on three core areas: therapeutic robots for the rehabilitation of individuals with impaired upper limbs, assistive robotic devices designed to enhance daily living, and exoskeleton robotic systems aimed at augmenting human mobility and strength. In addition to these focal areas, he has made significant contributions to the advancement of mechatronic system design. His expertise and leadership have been instrumental in securing and managing numerous research projects supported by both industry and funding organizations. His work has resulted in over 90 publications in international journals and conferences.
Student roles: • Literature Review: Examine mobility challenges experienced by older adults and individuals with disabilities. Analyze existing walkers, wheelchairs, and assistive technologies. • Concept Development: Assess alternative mechanisms for providing sit-to-stand assistance. • Detailed Design and Modelling: Collaborate with research team members to design the frame, structure, and component layout, and to select appropriate materials and components. • Electronics and Control System Development: Collaborate with research team members to design motor control circuitry and program a microcontroller for sensor processing and motor operation. • Design Refinement: Resolve issues identified during testing and optimize system performance and reliability. • Documentation and Reporting: Record all design stages, findings, and results for publication and peer review.
Skills required: We are seeking a senior undergraduate or master’s student in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, or Biomedical Engineering to support the design and development of an affordable, user-centred mobility assistance device. The ideal candidate has experience in CAD modelling and is proficient in creating 3D models and assemblies using SolidWorks or Fusion 360. Candidates must have microcontroller programming skills, including firmware development for motor control, sensor integration, and safety features. Experience with embedded systems, electronics, sensors, and actuators is highly desirable. Knowledge of ergonomics and biomechanics, especially as they relate to assistive device design and human mobility, is an asset. The student
71. Novel Pipe Manipulation Tool to Reduce Drag and Emissions in Energy Systems
Supervisor: Arman Hemmati
University: University of Alberta (Edmonton campus)
This project focuses on pipeflow dynamics and manipulation towards lowering drag and heat losses in the flow. There is applications in energy systems, mining, and water transportation. Energy of the fluid in turbulent flows is concentrated in particular coherent structures that belong to specific Fourier modes. This enables flow manipulation to retain energy in specific structures and dissipate it in others, which leads to lower drag and higher efficiency in heat and fluid transport.This constitutes an intrusive mechanism to lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in transportation of energy products, including liquids, gases and multiphase fluids. This technology is at TRL 7 and we are finalizing design for implementation and pilot testing.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research area and expertise focuses on unsteady turbulent flow dynamics and modeling. This includes external and internal flows with applications in energy harvesting, energy storage, energy transportation, low emissions aerial, ground and underwater vehicles. Particularly, my team has developed a global reputation for research in the areas of unsteady turbulent wake dynamics and turbulent pipeflow dynamics. Moreover, our efforts have led to and continue to result in the development of new technologies and products that are revolutionary in design to lower GHG emissions and enhance our technological capabilities.
Student roles: The student will complete post-processing of pipeflow simulations related to the wall-modified cases, while computed preliminary simulations related to new design alternatives for lowering GHG emissions through drag reduction and heat-loss reductions. They will work closely with another PhD and MSc student that are already working on the project and provide them support and new insights.
Skills required: The student needs to have a good understanding of fluid mechanics, structural mechanics and fluid-structure-interactions with familiarity in SolidWorks, Matlab and ANSYS. The right candidate will need to complete literature review, post-process results and complete simulations on pipeflow. Knowledge and familiarity with OpenFOAM and Tecplot are considered a plus.
72. Numerical Studies of Cryogenic Fuel Injection for Advanced Propulsion Systems
This project will develop advanced numerical tools to study cryogenic fuel injection for next-generation propulsion systems. Cryogenic fuels such as liquid hydrogen and liquid methane are increasingly important for low-carbon aerospace, space, and defense propulsion applications. However, their injection and combustion involve complex coupled physics, including real-gas thermodynamics, transcritical or supercritical mixing, strong density gradients, heat transfer, turbulence, finite-rate chemistry, and ignition under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. These effects remain difficult to predict using conventional ideal-gas or simplified spray models.
The project will focus on high-fidelity computational studies of cryogenic fuel jets injected into propulsion-relevant environments. The first stage will develop and assess numerical models for real-gas thermodynamics, transport properties, and dense-fluid mixing. Canonical non-reacting injection cases will then be used to investigate jet penetration, turbulent mixing, scalar dissipation, and the conditions under which ideal-gas assumptions break down. The second stage will extend the simulations to reacting flows, with emphasis on ignition, flame stabilization, extinction, and combustion efficiency for hydrogen and methane-based cryogenic fuels.
A key component of the project will be the assessment of large-eddy simulation models for practical propulsion conditions. Where possible, highly resolved simulations will be used to evaluate subgrid-scale closures for turbulent mixing and combustion in real-gas environments. The simulation database will also be used to develop reduced-order models and design-oriented correlations that can support injector optimization.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My specialized research area is theoretical and numerical fluid mechanics, with a focus on turbulent reacting flows, combustion, detonation, and hydrogen safety. My work combines high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics, reduced-order modelling, detailed chemical kinetics, and experimental validation to study complex reacting-flow phenomena relevant to propulsion, energy, and industrial safety.
A major part of my research focuses on hydrogen combustion and detonation mitigation, including flame acceleration, deflagration-to-detonation transition, flame/detonation arrestors, and safe hydrogen infrastructure. I also work on cryogenic and low-carbon fuel injection, burner design, turbulent combustion modelling, and data-assisted numerical methods for reducing the cost of high-fidelity simulations.
Student roles: The student will be responsible for conducting numerical studies of cryogenic fuel injection under propulsion-relevant conditions. Their role will include reviewing the literature on cryogenic injection, real-gas effects, transcritical mixing, and reacting-flow modelling; setting up canonical computational cases; and performing high-fidelity simulations using CFD and combustion modelling tools.
The student will develop and assess numerical models for cryogenic fuel injection, including real-gas thermodynamics, transport properties, turbulence modelling, and finite-rate chemistry where appropriate. They will analyze key flow and combustion quantities such as jet penetration, mixing rate, scalar dissipation, ignition delay, flame stabilization, temperature distribution, and species evolution. The student will also compare different modelling assumptions, such as ideal-gas versus real-gas treatments and non-reacting versus reacting simulations.
As the project progresses, the student will help generate a structured simulation database and use it to identify physical trends, develop scaling relationships, and support reduced-order or design-oriented models for propulsion injector analysis. They will be expected to document their methodology carefully, maintain organized simulation data and code, prepare figures and technical summaries, and contribute to journal papers, conference presentations, and project reports.
Skills required: The student should have a strong background in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, chemical engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or a closely related discipline. Prior training in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, numerical methods, and combustion would be highly desirable.
The project requires a student with strong analytical and computational skills, including familiarity with computational fluid dynamics, programming, and high-performance computing. Experience with tools such as OpenFOAM, Cantera, Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or other CFD/reacting-flow codes would be an asset. Knowledge of compressible flows, turbulence modelling, chemical kinetics, real-gas thermodynamics, or multiphase/cryogenic flows would be particularly valuable, although specific training can be provided
73. Numerical modeling of the fluid flow and heat transfer in a water jep pump
Water jet pumps are passive pumping devices in which a secondary flow is induced through suction generated by a high-pressure primary flow (Venturi effect). They can operate either as conventional pumps in mining applications or as vacuum-generating devices when the secondary inlet is closed, a condition referred to as the Zero Flow Ratio (ZFR). The candidate will extend an existing simple numerical model to model a water liquid jet pump. It will validate against experimental data from an existing testbench available in the group. The code could be then extended to account for the two-phase nature of the ZFR jet pump. Depending on the candidate, advanced numerical simulations could be also performed using ANSYS Fluent. The performances will be discussed in terms of compression and entrainment ratios, and cooling capacity. The present application is the cooling of turboalternator groups.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: I am interesting in fluid mechanics and heat transfer in various industrial applications (rotating machineries, nanofluids, energy efficiency) but also in the field of the fluid biomechanics and coastal engineering. My works are often based on a combined experimental, theoretical and numerical approach.
Student roles: Do the literature review on water and ZFR jet pumps; Validation and parametric analysis of an existing simple numerical model; Numerical simulations of a ZFR jet pump using ANSYS Fluent; Write a technical report.
Skills required: The recruited student should have some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics, heat transfer (and numerical methods).
74. Open Continuum Robotics Project
Supervisor: Jessica Burgner-Kahrs
University: University of Toronto (Mississauga campus)
Research at the Continuum Robotics Laboratory spans the design, modeling, sensing, and control of continuum and deformable robotic systems. We investigate a range of materials, structures, and actuation paradigms to create robots with tunable compliance, adaptability, and embodied intelligence. Our work combines physical experimentation with computational approaches, including design optimization, physics-based modeling, dynamic simulation, motion planning, state estimation, and machine learning.
A major focus of our research is developing computational tools that enable continuum robots to operate autonomously in complex environments. We have made significant contributions to the mechanics-based modeling of continuum robots and have developed an advanced open-source MuJoCo simulation framework for tendon-driven continuum robot systems. Together with our open hardware platforms, these tools provide a foundation for studying robot-environment interaction, perception, learning, planning, and control.
The Open Continuum Robotics Project aims to lower barriers to entry while accelerating research toward autonomous continuum and deformable robots. This project leverages our simulation and hardware ecosystem to investigate sim-to-real transfer, AI-enabled modeling and control, shape and state estimation, adaptive behaviour, and embodied intelligence. Students joining the project may contribute to robot design and fabrication, sensing and estimation, machine learning, autonomous control, and the study of highly flexible robotic systems operating in complex environments.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The Continuum Robotics Laboratory develops next-generation continuum and deformable robots inspired by biological structures such as octopus arms and elephant trunks. Our research combines robotics, mechanics, computation, sensing, and artificial intelligence to design, model, and control highly flexible robotic systems capable of adapting to complex and uncertain environments. Current projects focus on robot design, physics-based modeling, dynamic simulation, shape sensing, state estimation, machine learning, and autonomous control. Applications include industrial inspection, manipulation in confined spaces, and operation in challenging environments where conventional rigid robots are limited.
Student roles: Students will support the open continuum robot software development or hardware teams. They will be assigned programming or engineering tasks to expand the features of the software or hardware.
Skills required: - fundamental knowledge in robotics required - proficiency in programming using Python or C/C++ with experience in robotics simulators such as MuJoCo or robotics software stacks (ROS2) or - proficiency in CAD; prototyping skills (3D printing, electronics, mechatronics, assembly etc.)
75. Physics Informed Neural Networks for Thermal Management of Electric Vehicle Batteries
Supervisor: Martin Agelin-chaab
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Location: Oshawa, Ontario
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engineering, Engg-Systems and Technology, Engg-Software, Physics
Effective thermal management of lithium-ion batteries is critical for the safety and performance of electric vehicles. Traditional computational fluid dynamics models face severe computational bottlenecks when resolving complex, transient multi-phase systems, limiting their application in real-time monitoring. To address this limitation, the primary objective of this doctoral research is the development of a novel multi-dimensional spatiotemporal Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) framework. This mesh-free computational approach aims to serve as a high-fidelity, offline-trained surrogate model, enabling real-time inference and functioning as a predictive digital twin for phase change material (PCM)-based battery modules.
The proposed methodology fundamentally alters thermal simulation by embedding the governing thermodynamic equations directly into the neural network's loss function. Specifically, the framework integrates a continuous enthalpy-porosity formulation to mathematically resolve the moving Stefan boundary of the melting PCM without requiring extensive grid-based discretization.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The applicant's research is in aerodynamics, thermal management and energy. The research is conducted by employing both computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental measurements. Our research facilities include full-scale and small-scale thermal chambers, as well as clusters of computational resources. The students will build strong networks and experience by working alongside experienced graduate students and engineers at ACE (Automotive Centre of Excellence).
Student roles: The students' research activities include: 1) Conduct a comprehensive literature review on the applications of deep learning to thermal management of electric batteries and write a report. 2) Develop deep learning and neural network techniques for application to thermal management of batteries. 3) Perform comprehensive analyses of the results. 4) Write technical reports on the results.
Skills required: The students must have a good background in thermal science, and thermodynamics. Working knowledge of machine learning or AI will be a huge advantage. In addition, a passion for research and a willingness to learn new things are cornerstones of most research endeavours.
76. Potentiel du stockage d'énergie thermique pour la décarbonation des bâtiments/Potential of thermal energy storage for building decarbonization
Supervisor: Katherine D'Avignon
University: École de Technologie Supérieure (Montréal campus)
Location: Montréal, Québec
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engineering, Science and Technology, Engg-Systems and Technology
To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we must stop using fossil fuels to heat water and air in buildings. The OpSTS research project aims to study how thermal storage technologies can be used for this purpose. Specifically, we want to provide building managers with the necessary tools to determine which buildings should be equipped with thermal storage. We have access to a portfolio of buildings where thermal storage has been implemented in the past. The group's objective is to develop a simplified tool to predict the potential of storage solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in future projects. To do this, we need to quantify the impact of storage on the energy profile of different buildings through numerical simulation. From these results, we will be able to identify the characteristics that enable the best performance. These simulations require the use of numerical models of various thermal storage devices.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Thermal storage
Building energy simulation
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
Building decarbonization
Student roles: 1. Collect operational data from thermal storage devices implemented in buildings. 2. Clean the data (remove duplicates, handle missing values, correct structural errors, filter out outliers and anomalies, normalize data types and formats, and validate the data against operational logic). 3. Configure resistance-capacitance models of different dimensions to represent the behavior of the storage device. 4. Validate the performance of the developed model.
Skills required: • Excellent motivation • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Knowledge of heat transfer mechanisms and HVAC systems • An interest in building energy simulation
77. Prediction et optimisation des performances d'usinage dans le contexte d'industrie 4.0 et 5.0 / Predicting and Optimizing Machining process performance in the context of industry 4.0 and 5.0
Supervisor: Victor SONGMENE
University: École de Technologie Supérieure (Montréal campus)
The move to digitization (industry 4.0 and industry 5.0) is now seen as an excellent way of improving productivity, product quality manufacturing industry’s performance. Where do we stand today in the case of machining? What performance indicators are required? How can intelligent technologies be integrated to optimize machining? Which data should be selected for monitoring (machines, processes, tools) and optimizing machining? What are today’s challenges for automated optimization. Given the development of new cutting tools and materials, how can we constantly optimize machining conditions?
This project is designed to answer these questions. It aims to:
- Identify the critical parameters to be controlled in order to optimize the machining process;
- Determine the critical parameters and the means to control them.
- List tools for predicting machining process performance and identify current scientific and technological gaps.
- For a given application, develop or apply standard laboratory tests to characterize the performance of machining processes (machines, tools and materials) with a view to classifying them.
- Optimize the performance of the process studied.
- Produce and present reports and initiate the writing of scientific articles using the results obtained from the tests.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: For over twenty years we have been working in Process, Products and systems engineering laboratory (LIPPS) to improve the machining/machinability of materials for our industries. Our activities include i) development of high speed, durable and clean machining; ii) Optimization and improvement of machining performance, iii) study of machinability of metals and composites and iv) promoting the adoption of environmental conscious machining. These research tasks are carried out in a multidisciplinary research teams (metallurgist, machinists, manufacturing researchers) using up-to-date industrial scale machines-tools and research instruments.
Student roles: Depending on the skills and background of the selected student, he or she will be asked to develop a tool for predicting process performance, a tool for processing machining data, or to map the needs, instruments and tools to facilitate the implementation of Industry 4.0 /5.0 in machining companies, or to plan and carry out machining tests in the laboratory. In either case, the student will :
- carry out bibliographical research and critical analysis; - prepare and present the results of their work using MS-office during group meetings; - interview local industrialists or laboratory technicians and researchers working on machining; - write a report and/or initiate the writing of a scientific article.
Skills required: The competencies sought should include three to four of the following: - Ability to conduct literature reviews - Interview with manufacturers ; - Survey technique - Data classification and analysis; - Programming - Planning and conducting tests in laboratory; - Statistical analysis of the data; - Writing reports and/or articles; - Teamwork.
78. Prototyping an assesing custom-made user interfaces for immersive technologies leveraing AI
Supervisor: Alvaro Joffre Uribe Quevedo
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Location: Oshawa, Ontario
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engineering, Industrial Design and Technology
Virtual, augmented, and mixed reality (VR, AR, MR) interactions rely on standard consumer-level input devices that are unable to properly replicate real-world tasks. Despite this limitation, immersive technologies have been adopted in education, health care, and other non-entertainment domains because of their immersive properties, which enable exposing users to safe and controlled experiences otherwise impossible to replicate in real life. While mainly outcomes from using immersive technologies lie on supporting cognitive learning, motor learning and transferrable skills remain and open research area due to the lack of proper physica task representation. Currently, the availability of consumer-level 3D printers, open electronics, and immersive technology, is allowing the creation of custom-made user input devices that could reduce the realism gap towards better task representation. The design and development of custom-made user input devices is rapidly changing as artificial intelligence (AI) continous being used in creative processes. This study aims to understand the effects of custom-made user input devices when performing fundamental virtual tasks on the user experience and performance. Our main hypothesis is that custom-made user input devices designed with the support of AI will enable participants to outperform those using devices designed without AI support, or fully AI designed. This research project will support addressing such research question by trototyping an assesing custom-made user interfaces for immersive technologies leveraing AI.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on immersive technologies and their applications in scenarios other than entertainment. Leveraging my background in mechatronics, my current research program focuses on investigating custom-made user input device design methods for best support skill development. Comprehensively, my research articulates both software and hardware centered on human factor principles.
Student roles: The student main role is that of a designer of immersive tech custom-made user input devices leveraging traditional and novel workflows for fundamental virtual tasks such as locomotion, reaching, grabbing, and interacting with both virtual objects and graphical user interfaces. In addition to the role of designer, the student will document, write reports, present advances, work in a multidisciplinary team, engage in creative sessions, conduct literature reviews, physically prototype the designs using 3D printing and open electronics programming their functionality to work with well-known game engines such as Unity and Unreal. Finally, the student will assist and support testing of the prototypes.
Skills required: Those interested in this project should posses the following skills: Object oriented programming experience with C++, Python, C#, CAD modeling, 3D printing, and open electronics. Prior experience using Unity and Unreal is desired, but not mandatory. Prior experience with virtual reality development is preferred, but not mandatory. Familiarity with AI tools for CAD is preferred but not required. Team work, report writing, organizational skills are essential.
79. Re-designing the instrumentation for measuring snow on the ground.
Supervisor: Frederique Pivot
University: Athabasca University (Edmonton campus)
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Start date: 2027-05-31 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engineering, Engg-Manufacturing, Design, Science and Technology, Engg-Electrical
Monitoring changes in snowpack extent, dynamics, and the water it holds is critical for managing water resources, forecasting weather, floods, and avalanches, and understanding climate and ecological processes. The macro-physical properties of snow, including snow depth, density, and snow water equivalent (SWE), are among the most commonly measured snow parameters. Although remote sensing technologies are increasingly used to estimate these variables, calibration and validation still rely heavily on field measurements, many of which are still performed manually.
This project focuses on improving field instrumentation used to measure snow depth and SWE. One component of the project concerns SWE measurements. SWE represents the depth of water that would result if the snowpack melted instantaneously. Conventional snow tube samplers can underestimate SWE when sampling snowpacks containing large depth hoar crystals ("sugar snow"), as these fragile crystals may fall out of the sampler during extraction. Previous interns have developed several prototype designs intended to address this issue, but additional design, fabrication, and testing are still required. The project may also explore improvements to sample handling, bagging, labeling, and data collection procedures.
A second component of the project concerns snow depth measurements. Existing systems such as the Magnaprobe automatically measure snow depth, record the measurement location, and store the data electronically, eliminating the need for manual reading and recording of measurements. Recent work has focused on developing a smaller, lighter, and lower-cost alternative using commercially available components and RTK-GNSS positioning. While substantial progress has been made, additional design, integration, and testing are still required.
The intern will contribute to both instrumentation projects. Depending on progress and the challenges encountered, the work may include design refinement, fabrication of prototype components, electronics integration, software development, laboratory testing, and improvements to field sampling workflows.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Dr. Pivot's research area is in remote sensing technology and its applications in physical geography. Specifically, she specializes in monitoring and analyzing changes in Earth's surface processes, in particular snow cover dynamics and surface soil moisture and freeze-thaw state. She develops advanced observing systems, including drones, to acquire precise geospatial data more efficiently. Dr. Pivot also pioneers technology-driven solutions for online education, integrating fieldwork into courses through mobile technology-guided trips and virtual geographic environments.
Student roles: Your role will include:
1. Reviewing the scientific and technical literature related to snow measurement instrumentation, including snow water equivalent (SWE) samplers and snow depth measurement systems.
2. Contributing to the design and improvement of an existing SWE sampler prototype intended to reduce sampling errors associated with depth hoar.
3. Contributing to the development of a snow depth measurement system integrating automated depth measurements, RTK-GNSS positioning, and digital data recording.
4. Identifying suitable fabrication methods and components, assembling and testing prototype systems, and evaluating their performance through laboratory experiments.
5. Documenting design decisions, testing procedures, and results, and contributing to reports, technical documentation, and scientific publications arising from the project.
Skills required: A background in engineering is required, particularly in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, instrumentation, sensor engineering, or drafting and design engineering. Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software is required. Because the project involves the development of new field instruments, experience designing, fabricating, and testing prototypes is highly desirable. Experience with electronics, sensors, GNSS technologies, 3D printing, or software development is also an asset.
More importantly, you should be resourceful, hands-on, and capable of independently solving practical engineering problems. You should be comfortable working with people from different disciplinary backgrounds.
Ice slurries are a mixture of fine ice crystals suspended in a liquid, typically water or a saline solution, and are used as a secondary refrigerant in cooling systems. Thanks to their high latent heat capacity, they can store and transport large amounts of thermal energy more efficiently than conventional chilled fluids. This makes them particularly useful in applications such as industrial refrigeration, air conditioning of deep mines, food preservation, and district cooling networks. The fluid-like behavior of ice slurry allows it to be pumped through pipes, combining the advantages of both solid and liquid cooling media. Its performance depends on factors such as ice fraction, crystal size, and flow conditions, which influence heat transfer efficiency and pumping requirements. The objective of the internship is to characterize experimentally the main thermophysical properties of ice slurries with a special emphasis on their rheological characteristics. Flow ramp, creep and oscillatory sweep tests will be performed on a hybrid rotational rheometer. One will play with additives to lower their freezing point. Depending on the advancement of the project, an experimental database could be created based on both the open literature and the new measurements. It would be used to test, train and validate an artificial neural network model able to predict the dynamic viscosity of the slurries.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: I am expert in fluid mechanics for energy systems, bioengieering and coastal applications, aerodynamics, etc. My research concerns mainly the development of advanced numerical modelings, from optimization algorithm coupled to 1D models to 3D direct numerical simulations for any problems involving heat and mass transfer and fluid flow. Part of my research focuses also on characterizing the thermophysical properties of complex fluids (phase change materials, slurries, nanofluids, drilling fluids, bioinspired fluids) for a wide range of applications.
Student roles: Do the literature review on ice slurries, their applications and properties; Perform extensive rheological experiments using different test methods; Build an experimental database from the first two tasks and test, train and validate an artificial neural network to predict the dynamic viscosity of the fluids; Write a technical report.
Skills required: Good knowledge in basic fluid dynamics and heat transfer and wish to perform extensive laboratory experiments.
81. Safely managing unavoidable human-robot collisions using robotic arms
Supervisor: Christopher Yee Wong
University: Concordia University (Montréal campus)
Robotic assistants could be used to assist vulnerable populations with activities of daily living in domestic or hospital environments, such as dressing, cooking, mobility and cleaning. Unfortunately, when humans and robots co-exist in the same space, collisions are inevitable. For example, a domestic robotic assistant is helping prepare a meal on a hot stove, but a person is distractedly walking towards, and unavoidably collides with, the robot and the stove. The robot can use its arm and physically contact the person to alert and impede their motion, but it must do so in a physically and emotionally safe manner.
We propose to develop physically and emotionally safe human-robot collision management strategies through robot control and trajectory optimization that consider human state estimation via computer vision and physiological sensing. The human’s trajectory, where they are looking, and the body posture in 3D space will be first determined by extracting the human skeleton key points using markerless AI-based computer vision algorithms. Next, by defining critical zones in space (e.g., the hot stove), motion planning optimization algorithms can then consider the human’s trajectory to determine how the robot should position itself and react to the impact of the collision to minimize physical and emotional damage. We will examine different contact strategies that consider where the robot should contact the human (e.g., arm vs upper torso vs lower torso), how it should control the interaction forces (e.g., distance-based variable stiffness impedance control), contacting the human using high or low surface areas of the robot body. Physical safety will be measured through interaction forces and emotional safety will be measured through surveys and physiological sensing and analyzed using machine learning. To note, user studies with recruited participants will **not** be within the scope of this proposed project.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The Living with Assistive and Interactive Robots (LAIR) Lab at Concordia University focuses on examining physical and social human-robot interaction (psHRI) in order to achieve safe, comfortable, and intuitive interactions with autonomous robotic assistants in the areas of home care, retail, manufacturing, or healthcare. This is accomplished by using multimodal analysis of the human (e.g., posture, gesture, touch, emotion, physiological signals, etc.), compliant control algorithms, machine intelligence, and device design.
Student roles: The student’s role is to lay the preliminary technical groundwork for performing user studies in the future. The student will learn to use existing computer vision algorithms (e.g., Mediapipe) to extract and analyze the human skeleton key points. The student will then use this information and develop trajectory planning and a variable impedance controller for the Kinova Gen3 robot arm based on different contact strategies that they come up with. Finally, the student will be involved in experimental design and perform preliminary experiments as a proof of concept for a future user study. The faculty advisor will guide the student in understanding these advanced concepts along with help from the other members of the lab.
The role of the student is to develop their skills and knowledge in computer vision and robot control: - Learn about the current state of the art in compliant robot control and physical human-robot interaction - Choose and implement appropriate control and trajectory planning strategies - Develop the different interaction conditions - Conduct pilot studies to experimentally validate the different interaction conditions - Meet weekly with the supervisor to discuss progress and project direction
Skills required: The ideal student will have a knowledge of dynamics, robot control, computer vision, and be a strong programmer: - Proficient in programming (C++ or Python) - Experience with Robot Operating System (ROS)
82. Solar thermally driven data center cooling systems with underground thermal energy storage
Solar energy is a widely available resource with the potential to meet a significant portion of the world's energy demand. To make it cost-competitive with other sources of energy, novel approaches to harnessing and using solar energy are required. Moreover, solar energy is intermittent, available when the sun is out and not available during cloudy days and at night. With the increasing construction of data centers and the associated increase in energy consumption, most of which is used for cooling, solar thermal energy has the potential to reduce the stress on the grid. This project is aimed at finding ways of combining waste heat from data centers with solar thermal energy for sustainable, low water and low electricity consumption cooling. The project specifically focuses on the realistic performance of such an integrated system.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on the design, modeling and optimization of sustainable thermal energy systems. We apply the fundamentals of heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics to develop and evaluate novel thermal energy systems. Recent research is developing and optimizing heat pump technology for cold climate applications, concentrating solar thermal systems, and alternative heating and cooling system.
Student roles: The student will review related studies on data center cooling, solar thermally driven cooling systems, and a combination of solar thermal cooling and data center waste heat recovery systems. Then, the student will develop concepts of coupled solar thermally driven cooling systems and data centers, showing the interdependence of the two systems. From these, mathematical models will be developed, and the performance under realistic operating conditions will be studied. The performance characterization required the development of mathematical and thermodynamic models of these systems and implementing their solutions in appropriate software.
Skills required: An understanding of the fundamental thermofluids courses - heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics is essential for this project. Basic programming skills in MATLAB, Python or Engineering Equations Solver, TRNSYS, among others. Understanding of solar thermal technologies will be beneficial.
Heating and cooling account for almost half of the total energy costs in northern mines in Canada. In underground mines, heating is essential to prevent shaft freezing and ensure mine safety during winter. In deep mines, cooling is required when working temperatures rise due to rock temperature and auto-compression effects. Traditional heating and cooling methods, such as burning propane, natural gas, or using diesel engines, contribute significantly to carbon emissions and are subject to provincial carbon taxes.
Spray freezing (SF) technology, a novel renewable energy solution, has proved to be a viable alternative to fossil fuels for meeting the heating and cooling demands of mines in sub-arctic climates. This technology utilizes the latent heat of water solidification to heat air by injecting water droplets into a subarctic airflow. The heat transfer raises air temperature and freezes the droplets, forming ice packs that, when properly stacked, can serve as potential cooling sources.
This project includes the innovation and implementation of SF technology for mine heating and cooling to mitigate the effect of climate change. Students are expected to assist the development of a new modeling framework, compare it with existing or experimental data, and present findings through academic reports.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Focusing on the interface between energy and mining engineering, I aim to tackle today’s climate and energy challenges by decarbonizing energy systems in mines. Research in my lab
develops and implements clean energy technology, accelerating towards a sustainable future for the mining industry. It advances the areas of mine electrification, mine ventilation,
heating and cooling, renewable energy, and energy storage.
Student roles: Milestone 1: Understand fundamentals of freezing process and complete literature review. Milestone 2: Assist the formulation of a physics-based modeling framework to predict SP for mine heating and cooling. Milestone 3: Solve the problem via analytical, numerical, or hybrid methods and compare with existing or experimental data. Milestone 4: Conduct parametric studies for various scenarios due to climate change (optional). Milestone 5: Produce a final report and present findings.
Skills required: - Heat Transfer (or related courses) - Fluid Mechanics (or related courses) - Engineering Mathematics on Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations (or related courses) - Programming skills in Python or MATLAB (or willing to learn)
84. Strategies for Cleaning Autonomous Vehicle Sensors in Adverse Weather
Supervisor: Martin Agelin-chaab
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
Emerging vehicle technologies, particularly autonomous systems, rely on a network of advanced sensors (e.g., radar, LiDAR, cameras) to perceive and interpret the surrounding environment. Maintaining clear sensor visibility under all operating conditions is essential for safe and reliable performance. However, adverse weather conditions such as rain and snow can lead to the contamination of sensor surfaces, particularly optical sensors, resulting in degraded performance. In addition, design and integration constraints often necessitate sensor placement in regions that are inherently susceptible to soiling and contamination. The deposition of water, dirt, and other contaminants, governed in part by local aerodynamic effects, poses a significant challenge to sensor reliability and overall vehicle safety. This research will develop rigorous experimental and analytical methodologies to characterize these complex surface contamination processes and to provide fundamental physical insight. The outcomes will establish a foundation for the development of physics-informed design guidelines and innovative mitigation strategies for sensor cleaning under adverse environmental conditions.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The applicant's research is in aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and energy. The research is conducted by employing both computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental measurements. Our research facilities include full-scale and small-scale wind tunnels and thermal chambers, as well as clusters of computational resources. The students will build strong networks and experience by working alongside experienced graduate students and engineers at ACE (Automotive Centre of Excellence).
Student roles: The students' research activities include: 1) Conduct a comprehensive literature review on the applications of sensors on autonomous vehicles and write a report. 2) Apply multiphase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to generic three-dimensional (3D) road vehicle models 3) Perform comprehensive analyses of the results 4) Write technical reports on the results.
Skills required: The students must have a good background in fluid mechanics, as well as computational fluid dynamics. Working knowledge of sensors such as lidar and cameras will be a huge advantage. In addition, a passion for research and a willingness to learn new things are cornerstones of most research endeavours.
85. Teleoperation of a Robot Arm using a Haptic Controller
Supervisor: Christopher Yee Wong
University: Concordia University (Montréal campus)
Within Canada and around the world, there is a critical shortage of healthcare professionals (HCP). One viable band-aid solution is telemedicine, where an HCP can consult with a patient remotely through audio and/or stationary video calling, but the lack of a physical presence means that many modalities of diagnosis are missing. In particular, physical examinations are a critical component to routine medical diagnosis in a primary care setting. These physical examinations include different modalities to assess a patient, such as inspection (detailed visual examination), palpation (use of touch to examine the body), percussion (tapping on a surface to determine sound type), and auscultation (use of a stethoscope to listen to internal body sounds). Unfortunately, current telemedicine technologies cannot perform any of these procedures beyond fixed-viewpoint inspection.
Robots present a viable and attractive solution to this need for physical presence and physical examinations. Remotely controlling robots at a distance, known as teleoperation, allows users to physically interact with objects from a distance. Unfortunately, communication delays may occur when teleoperating over long distances, and is especially problematic when physical contact and haptic feedback are involved. This project aims to begin the development of a robotic system and interface for conducting teleoperated physical examinations. Particularly, the project aims to develop intuitive control strategies when teleoperating a robot for physical examinations using a haptic controller, and how these control strategies can adapt to minimal, moderate, and severe time delays.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The Living with Assistive and Interactive Robots (LAIR) Lab at Concordia University focuses on examining physical and social human-robot interaction (psHRI) in order to achieve safe, comfortable, and intuitive interactions with autonomous robotic assistants in the areas of home care, retail, manufacturing, or healthcare. This is accomplished by using multimodal analysis of the human (e.g., posture, gesture, touch, emotion, physiological signals, etc.), compliant control algorithms, machine intelligence, and device design.
Student roles: The role of the student is to first build the interface to control a robot arm in simulation using a haptic controller. From there, the student will devise different control strategies for teleoperating the robot using a haptic controller under minimal, moderate, and severe time delays within the context of teleoperated physical delays. If time permits, validation experiments will be conducted on a physical robot.
The tasks include: - Learn the current state of the art in robot teleoperation and handling delays by reading scientific literature - Develop the ability to teleoperate a robot arm in simulation using the haptic controller and ROS - Design different control schemes depending on the time delay severity - Implement and test the different control schemes - Write clear documentation on the entire project - Meet weekly with the supervisor to discuss progress and project direction
Skills required: The ideal student will have a knowledge of robotics and be a strong programmer: - Proficient in programming (C++ or Python) - Experience with Robot Operating System (ROS) - Knowledge in robot control
86. Therapy at Hand: Affordable Robot-Assisted Stroke Rehabilitation
Supervisor: Milad Nazarahari
University: University of Alberta (Edmonton campus)
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Start date: 2027-05-03 (flexible)
Disciplines: Engg-Mechanical, Engineering, Engg-Electrical, Rehabilitation Medicine, Engg-Systems and Technology, Science and Technology
This project aims to design an innovative, cost-effective, and portable back-drivable end-effector robotic system for personalized robot-assisted therapy (RAT) in stroke rehabilitation. The project seeks to address the limitations of existing rehabilitation robots by focusing on affordability, portability, and user-centered design, especially for upper limb stroke rehabilitation.
Key objectives of the project include:
3DOF Robotic System: The primary goal is to develop a 3-degree-of-freedom (3DOF) robotic system that can assist patients with shoulder and elbow movements. This robotic arm will provide precise and controlled movements to aid in restoring functionality to stroke survivors.
Remote Teleassessment and Teletherapy: The project's design will enable the system to be used in various settings, including patients' homes and small clinics. This is achieved through a portable and lightweight design, allowing for remote teleassessment and teletherapy sessions, making therapy more accessible to underserved areas.
User-Centered Design: The system's design focuses on meeting the unique needs of stroke survivors, ensuring that it is user-friendly and effective. This includes features such as customizable programs, adjustable movement ranges, and safety mechanisms to prevent overexertion or injury.
Affordability: The project aims to develop a cost-effective solution that reduces the financial barrier to rehabilitation. This involves using accessible materials, optimizing the design for mass production, and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: At IDEA Lab (see our website at: goidealab.com) at the University of Alberta, we are focused on developing autonomous intelligent systems to deliver personalized health, specially using wearable, artificial intelligence, and robotic systems. Using these technologies, we measure movement and physiological data. With cost-effective robotic systems, we can perform assessment of human function and deliver therapy. Commonly, we combine these with artificial intelligence (e.g., deep learning) and biomedical signal processing.
Student roles: The student's role in this project includes: Literature Review: Conducting a comprehensive review of exsiting 3DOF robotic systems. Design and Development: Designing the 3DOF robotic system using CAD software, ensuring it meets the needs of stroke survivors, including customizable programs and safety mechanisms. Analysis and Simulation: Conducting forward/backward kinematics and kinetics to determine the workspace of the robot and selecting proper actuators. Simulating the performance of the robot. Reporting: Documenting the project's progress, methodologies, and findings. Preparing technical reports and contributing to potential academic publications, providing valuable insights into the development of affordable robot-assisted therapy systems.
Skills required: The ideal student for this project should possess: A background in mechanical engineering, robotics, or biomedical engineering, with coursework in robot design and control. Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks for designing the robotic system. Understanding of robot kinematic and kinetic analysis. Understanding of stroke rehabilitation principles and therapy methodologies is an ASSET.
87. Thermodynamic analysis of combined concentrating photovoltaic solar and compressed thermal energy storage systems
Solar energy is a widely available resource with the potential to meet a significant portion of the world's energy demand. To make it cost competitive with other sources of energy, novel approaches to harnessing and using solar energy are required. Moreover, solar energy is intermittent, available when the sun is out and not available during cloudy days and at night. As such a means of storing energy for late use becomes critical to extend the usage time of solar energy. In this project, combined high temperature photovoltaic thermal systems (PVT) will be developed, modelled and optimized. The thermal energy from the thermal side of the system will be upgraded, stored and used in an Organic Rankine cycle for power generation. The project will focus on the two linear concentrating technologies - the parabolic trough collector system and the linear Fresnel collector system.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on the design, modeling and optimization of sustainable thermal energy systems. We apply the fundamentals of heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics to develop and evaluate novel thermal energy systems. Recent research is developing and optimizing heat pump technology for cold climate applications, concentrating solar thermal systems, and alternative heating and cooling system.
Student roles: The students will develop concepts combining different solar thermal concentrating technologies with high-temperature photovoltaic modules for simultaneous generation of heat and electricity. Then, means of upgrading or storing the thermal energy generated by the PVT system (depending on the obtained temperature) for later use will be proposed and evaluated. For systems with PVT temperatures lower than 100°C, a combined compressed thermal energy storage system will be designed and analyzed. The student will investigate the impact of system location on the overall performance of the system. Another aspect of this project will involve the development and modelling of novel receivers for the CPV/T systems.
Skills required: Understanding of the fundamental thermofluids courses - heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics is essential for this project. Basic programming skills in MATLAB, Python or Engineering Equations Solver.
88. Topology optimization-driven design of multiphysics systems with structure-performance coupling
Theme 1: Topology Optimization of Bipolar Plate Flow Channels in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs)
Bipolar plate flow field channels are etched pathways that distribute hydrogen and air across the active area of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The shape of these channels controls reactant delivery, pressure distribution, and water removal, all of which directly influence the electrochemical efficiency and power output of the device. Traditional channel designs such as serpentine, parallel, and interdigitated layouts are inefficient and do not always perform well under different operating conditions. This project explores topology optimization as a physics-based framework to systematically design flow field channel geometries directly from the governing transport equations. By treating channel layout as a design variable, topology optimization enables the emergence of new and unconventional flow architectures that can be used to improve reactant distribution, reduce parasitic losses, and enhance overall fuel cell performance across a range of operating regimes.
Theme 2: Topology Optimization for Patient-Specific Orthopaedic Implant Design
Orthopaedic implants are used to restore function in damaged or degenerated bone, but conventional designs often do not fully match the mechanical behaviour of natural bone. This mismatch in stiffness can lead to stress shielding, where surrounding bone loses density over time, potentially causing implant loosening and the need for revision surgery. Patient-specific differences in bone shape, quality, and loading conditions make this problem even more challenging. This project explores topology optimization as a computational design method to generate implant structures that better match the mechanical response of natural bone. By integrating medical imaging data such as CT scans with computational modelling, patient-specific geometries can be reconstructed and used in the design process. Topology optimization is then used to distribute material within the implant so that stiffness and load transfer more closely resemble those of surrounding bone.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Our research group develops topology optimization (TO) tools based on the finite element method (FEM) to address design challenges across engineering applications where geometry and microstructure critically govern performance. Rather than optimizing the device or component within a fixed design template, we treat the structure itself as a variable, allowing optimal material distributions and geometries to emerge directly from the underlying physics. The methodology is applied across multiple domains, including energy storage and conversion devices (fuel cells, flywheel energy storage) and load-bearing biomedical devices (e.g., orthopaedic implants), where fluid flow, transport, and solid mechanics are tightly coupled to device performance.
Student roles: Interns will work closely with graduate student mentors on the following two research projects corresponding to the energy and biomedical themes described above.
Project 1: In the PEM fuel cell project, the intern will learn and use an existing in-house topology optimization and finite element simulation framework developed by the research group. Their responsibilities include running parametric studies to optimise bipolar plate flow channels under varying operating conditions, organizing and analyzing simulation outputs, and developing Python scripts for post-processing. Key performance metrics such as pressure drop, reactant distribution, and flow uniformity will be evaluated across different designs. The student will also assist in translating optimized geometries into CAD and STL formats for manufacturability assessment, fabrication and testing.
Project 2: In the biomedical implant project, the student will support early-stage development of computational workflows that convert CT scan data into 3D anatomical models and finite element meshes. Tasks include assisting with image segmentation workflows, geometry reconstruction, and preparation of meshes for topology optimization and lattice-based implant design. The student will also contribute to exploratory data-driven analysis using machine learning methods such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to extract structural descriptors from CT images. These descriptors will be used to inform patient-specific design parameters including implant geometry and porosity distribution.
Skills required: Applicants should be undergraduate students in mechanical engineering or a closely related discipline, ideally in their third year, with a strong foundation in engineering mechanics and numerical methods. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and willingness to learn new computational and simulation tools are essential. Basic familiarity with software development or coding workflows is expected (e.g., in C, C++, Python, MATLAB). Some exposure to and interest in (some of) finite element analysis, CFD, transport phenomena, image processing, optimization, machine learning would be beneficial.
89. Towards Low-Emission, Fuel-Flexible, Low-Carbon Combustion Turbines through Advanced Laser Diagnostics and Control
This project aims to investigate combustion characteristics of low-carbon fuels (H₂, NH₃, and CH₄ blends) using advanced laser diagnostics and data analysis techniques. The focus is on understanding how fuel composition and mixing conditions influence flame stability, temperature distribution, and pollutant formation, particularly nitrogen oxides (NOx).
The student will work on analyzing experimental datasets obtained from laser-based measurements, including Raman/Rayleigh spectroscopy and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF). These datasets provide spatially resolved measurements of temperature, major species (e.g., H₂, NH₃, N₂, O₂), and key radicals (e.g., OH, NO), which are critical for understanding combustion processes. The student will assist in processing and interpreting these datasets using Python or MATLAB, including statistical analysis, visualization, and comparison with chemical kinetics simulations.
Depending on the student’s background, the project may also involve simple chemical kinetics modeling using tools such as Cantera to explore NOx formation pathways and identify low-emission operating conditions. The student will contribute to generating high-quality datasets and insights that support the development of low-emission combustion strategies.
This project offers hands-on exposure to cutting-edge combustion research, including optical diagnostics, data-driven analysis, and sustainable energy technologies. The student will work closely with graduate students and the principal investigator, participate in weekly group meetings, and present their findings at the end of the internship.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on low-emission, fuel-flexible combustion systems for next-generation gas turbines using low-carbon fuels such as hydrogen (H₂), ammonia (NH₃), and methane (CH₄). I develop and apply advanced laser-based diagnostics, including Raman, Rayleigh, and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), to measure temperature, species concentrations, and pollutant formation in high-temperature reacting flows. The goal is to understand turbulence–chemistry interactions and pollutant formation mechanisms, particularly NOx, in practical combustion systems. This work supports the development of clean, efficient combustion technologies aligned with global decarbonization and net-zero energy goals.
Student roles: The project will involve up to three undergraduate students, each contributing to complementary aspects of the research on low-carbon fuel combustion. While all students will work collaboratively, individual roles will be defined to ensure clear responsibilities and meaningful contributions. Student 1 will focus on data processing and analysis of laser diagnostics measurements (Raman/Rayleigh and LIF). Responsibilities include processing raw data, performing statistical analysis, generating visualizations (e.g., temperature and species distributions), and comparing results across different fuel compositions and operating conditions using Python or MATLAB. Student 2 will focus on chemical kinetics and modeling. This student will use tools such as Cantera to simulate combustion processes and analyze NOx formation pathways. Tasks include running parametric studies, identifying low-emission operating conditions, and comparing simulation results with experimental datasets. Student 3 will focus on experimental support and diagnostics implementation. Under supervision, this student will assist with laboratory setup, system calibration, and data acquisition. Tasks may include optical alignment, assisting with measurements, and ensuring proper documentation of experimental procedures. All students will collaborate on interpreting results and integrating findings across experimental and modeling efforts. They will participate in weekly group meetings, present progress updates, and prepare a final presentation summarizing their work. This team-based structure allows students to gain specialized skills while also being exposed to the full research workflow, including experiments, data analysis, and modeling. It also ensures that each student contributes meaningfully to advancing the understanding of low-emission combustion systems.
Skills required: We seek motivated undergraduate students in mechanical, aerospace, or chemical engineering with an interest in combustion, fluid mechanics, or energy systems. The candidate should have a solid foundation in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Experience with Python or MATLAB for data analysis is highly desirable; familiarity with Cantera or scientific computing is a plus. Prior laboratory or experimental experience is beneficial but not required—training will be provided. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential. This position is ideal for students considering graduate studies in combustion, energy, or aerospace engineering, and offers hands-on experience in laser diagnostics and energy research.
90. Ultrafast laser texturing for catalysis and colour formation
The student will work in the Weck lab on projects related to texturing using ultrafast lasers. Two main sub-projects are envisioned
1- Ultrafast laser surface texturing of plasmonic electrodes for CO2 electroreduction. This project will involve the texturing of copper electrodes with the laser and testing of these electrodes in an electrochemical cell to investigate CO2 electroreduction due to plasmonic activity. CO2 reduction efficiency and selectivity will be investigated
2- Ultrafast laser texturing of bulk polymers for colour formation. We have pioneered colour formation on metals using ultrafast lasers, and we are now developing a approach to colour polymers. The goals is to produce a large and stable colour palette in polymers with the ultrafast laser.
Both project will involve the use of the ultrafast laser, as well as characterization techniques including optical and electron microscopy and spectroscopy techniques (FTIR, Raman, etc.)
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: The Weck Lab's interests lie at the intersection of photonics, materials science, chemistry, and surface engineering. We use ultrafast lasers to texture materials to control properties such as colours, wettability, chemical reactions, and biocompatibility. We also use these lasers for high speed micro-machining, fundamental laser-matter interaction studies, and to induce artificial defects (crack and voids) to investigate fracture mechanisms
Student roles: The student will use a variety of experimental techniques (lasers, electrochemical cells, microscopes, etc.) to create and test materials (metals and polymers) for applications in CO2 reduction and colour formation. The student will also contribute to expanding the existing literature on the topic by doing a literature review. The student will be directly supervised by a graduate student or postdoctoral fellow in the WeckLab on a day to day basis and will have weekly meetings with his main supervisor, Prof. Weck. At the end of the project, it is expected that the student will write a report on the work done during the internship.
Skills required: Experience with optical systems (lasers), microscopy (optical and electron microscopy) and spectroscopy techniques would be an asset.
91. Understanding Tire Grip and Vehicle Stability on Snow and Wet Roads
Supervisor: Zeinab El-Sayegh
University: Ontario Tech University (Oshawa campus)
This research project investigates how tire–road interactions affect vehicle stability under adverse weather conditions, such as wet and snow-covered roads. While most vehicle models and autonomous driving systems are developed assuming ideal dry conditions, real-world environments—particularly in countries like Canada—often involve contaminated road surfaces that significantly alter tire grip and vehicle behavior. Understanding these effects is essential for improving vehicle safety and performance.
The objective of this project is to develop a simplified computational model that captures how tire forces vary with changing road conditions. The student will begin by learning the fundamentals of tire mechanics, including friction, slip, and force generation. A basic tire model will then be implemented using MATLAB, where different road conditions (dry, wet, and snow) are represented through varying friction levels. Using this model, the student will simulate simple vehicle maneuvers such as braking and turning to evaluate how reduced tire grip impacts vehicle stability and control. Key performance indicators such as braking distance, lateral stability, and loss of traction will be analyzed and compared across different conditions.
The project emphasizes conceptual understanding and practical implementation rather than complex high-fidelity simulations. However, it is directly inspired by advanced research in tire–terrain interaction and autonomous vehicle performance under extreme weather conditions. The results will provide insight into how environmental factors influence vehicle dynamics and highlight the limitations of current simplified models.
By the end of the project, the student will have developed a working simulation tool, gained experience in computational modeling and data analysis, and acquired foundational knowledge relevant to vehicle dynamics.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Zeinab El-Sayegh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Automotive and Mechatronics Engineering at Ontario Tech University. She currently serves as the Co-Director of the Tire-Terrain Interaction Simulation (TTIS) and Truck Driving & Vehicle Dynamics Simulation (TDVDS) Laboratories. Her research focuses on transportation, vehicle design for both on-road and off-road applications, and autonomous vehicle simulation.
Student roles: The student will play an active role in developing and implementing a simplified computational model to study tire–road interactions under different environmental conditions. Under the supervision of the research team, the student will begin by conducting a brief literature review to understand fundamental concepts in tire mechanics, including friction, slip, and force generation.
The student will then develop a basic tire model using MATLAB, where different road conditions (dry, wet, and snow-covered surfaces) are represented through varying friction parameters. The student will be responsible for coding, testing, and refining this model to ensure it produces physically meaningful results. Following model development, the student will integrate the tire model into a simple vehicle simulation framework to analyze basic maneuvers such as braking and turning. The student will generate and interpret simulation results, focusing on key performance indicators such as braking distance, traction limits, and vehicle stability.
Throughout the project, the student will participate in regular meetings with the supervisor, present progress updates, and incorporate feedback to improve the model and analysis. The student will also document their work, including assumptions, methodology, and results.
By the end of the internship, the student will prepare a final technical report and deliver a presentation summarizing their findings. The student is expected to demonstrate initiative, problem-solving skills, and the ability to apply fundamental engineering principles to a real-world problem related to vehicle dynamics and safety.
Skills required: Basic vehicle dynamics understanding MATLAB or other programming Data analysis and visualization Engineering problem-solving Introduction to autonomous vehicle challenges
Icebergs are more than majestic blocks of drifting ice. They come in all shapes and sizes, from tall, blocky chunks to wide, flat slabs stretching kilometres across. As they drift and melt, they release freshwater and nutrients that can influence ocean currents and support marine life in cold polar waters. However, scientists still do not fully understand what controls how fast icebergs melt.
Just as a thin ice cube melts differently from a chunky one, and stirring a drink speeds up melting, an iceberg’s shape determines how much of its surface is exposed to warm water, while moving water controls how efficiently heat is delivered to it. Recent studies suggest that shape and flow can strongly affect melt rates, yet these effects are often simplified or neglected in climate models due to their complexity.
This project studies what affects how fast an iceberg melts. Using CAD design and 3D printing, we create model icebergs of different shapes and investigate how they melt under varying flow conditions using cameras. These controlled laboratory experiments allow us to isolate effects that are difficult to separate in the open ocean. By improving our understanding of iceberg melting, this work helps explain how freshwater released by icebergs influences ocean circulation and marine environments in a changing climate.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Many of today's environmental challenges come down to one basic question: how do water and air move? The answer lies in fluid dynamics. The way currents and winds carry particles and heat shapes problems such as how pollution spreads, how ice melts, and how air moves around the things we build. Yet these processes remain poorly understood. In the TEE Lab (Turbulence and Environmental Experiments) at the University of Ottawa, students tackle these questions through hands-on fluid dynamics experiments, using a combination of cameras and light sources to reveal the physics behind real-world problems and contribute to protecting our environment.
Student roles: The students will join the TEE Lab to investigate what controls how fast icebergs melt through a series of complementary laboratory experiments. These experiments explore how factors such as iceberg shape and water motion influence melting. Students will work alongside other lab members, share the laboratory space, and collaborate to advance the project.
Tasks will include fabricating ice moulds, preparing ice models, and setting up experiments in a saltwater tank and the TEE Lab recirculating water tunnel at the University of Ottawa. Students will record their experiments using cameras and then apply image analysis tools available in MATLAB or Python to measure melt rates, track how the ice changes shape over time, and observe how cold meltwater flows away from the ice surface. This hands-on process shows how an experiment is built step by step, from idea to result.
By the end of the internship, students will have developed valuable and transferable skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Beyond the technical skills, they will gain first-hand experience of working in a collaborative research team and discover how fundamental physics can be applied to one of today's pressing environmental challenges.
Skills required: We are looking for students with a basic understanding of fluid mechanics and some programming experience in MATLAB or Python. Experience with CAD design is helpful. We provide full hands-on training, so no prior experimental research experience is necessary. You will learn how to measure and visualize fluid flow, and how to detect, track, and analyze objects using image processing techniques. Beyond technical skills, we value curiosity, patience, strong organizational skills, and enthusiasm for environmental problems. A collaborative spirit is equally important, as interns will work closely with other lab members, sharing laboratory space, equipment, and facilities.
93. Yaw-Induced Ice Accretion Dynamics on Offshore Wind Turbine Blades in Cold Marine Environments
The blade of an offshore wind turbine (OWT) is one of the most critical components governing turbine efficiency, structural reliability, and long-term operational safety. In cold marine environments, OWT blades are frequently exposed to freezing rain, sea spray, snow, and supercooled water droplets, all of which can lead to ice accretion on the blade surface during winter operation. Ice accumulation significantly alters the blade surface roughness and aerodynamic profile, resulting in increased drag, reduced lift, and substantial losses in power generation efficiency. In addition to aerodynamic degradation, ice accretion can adversely affect onboard sensors used for turbine control, monitoring, and power estimation, thereby compromising operational stability and system reliability. Severe icing events may also introduce structural imbalance and vibration, potentially leading to resonance phenomena that threaten the structural integrity of the turbine. In extreme cases, excessive loading and vibration can result in blade damage, shortened component lifespan, and operational accidents. Consequently, understanding the mechanisms governing ice formation on OWT blades is essential for improving turbine resilience and ensuring safe operation in cold-climate offshore environments. The proposed project seeks to investigate the influence of yaw angle on ice accumulation characteristics on offshore wind turbine blades. Since yaw misalignment changes the effective angle of attack and local airflow distribution around the blade, it is expected to significantly influence droplet impingement, ice growth patterns, and aerodynamic performance degradation. The study will provide insight into how varying yaw conditions affect icing behavior and turbine operation. The project will be conducted over a 12-week period by two interns. The work will be organized into three phases: (i) developing numerical model for a fixed frame of view of stationary blades, (ii) numerical investigation of icing under varying yaw angles, and (iii) incorporating rotating frame and repeating task (ii).
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: My research focuses on fluid mechanics, turbulence, and flow control for sustainable energy and thermal management applications. Key areas include aerodynamic drag reduction, ice mitigation on wind turbine blades, battery thermal management for electric vehicles, and multiphase flow dynamics. My work integrates experimental measurements, computational fluid dynamics, and advanced flow diagnostics to improve the efficiency, reliability, and resilience of engineering systems operating under complex environmental conditions. Current projects emphasize cold-climate renewable energy systems, turbulence-driven transport processes, and passive and active thermal control strategies for energy applications, with strong relevance to decarbonization and clean technology development.
Student roles: The interns will execute all tasks outlined in the project description. They will be responsible for creating three-dimensional CAD models of NACA 64-618 tip sections. With supervision from myself , the interns will setup the solver using OpenFOAM or ANSYS Fluent to simulate two-phase flow around the 3D rotor models at subcooled temperatures. They will extract required data for analysis. This will also be closely supervised by myself to ensure the right data is extracted and analyzed.
Phase I: Develop 3D CAD models of NACA 64-618 airfoil tip section using either SolidWorks or ANSYS Fluent Space Claim.
Phase II: A large eddy simulation solver implemented in OpenFOAM or ANSYS Fluent will be used to conduct detailed simulation of two-phase flow (cold air at -10 ℃ and subcooled water droplets) over the 3D stationary and rotating rotor models.
Phase III: Detailed results will be extracted and analyzed to examine the effect of yaw angle on ice formation on airfoils under stationary and rotating conditions.
Skills required: The interns should be senior level students with working knowledge of programming in MATLAB or Python. Knowledge of ANSYS software or OpenFOAM package is a plus.
94. solar thermoelectric air pre-conditioning system
In a summer month, the central air-conditioning system of a house consumes large amount of electricity. Air-conditioning system often has to reduce air temperature by 10oC to 15oC. Any pre-reduction in air temperature by alternate and cheaper means will help reduction in the energy usage by the air-conditioning system. One of the innovative ways to use an air pre-conditioning system. In this project, the candidate will be able to design and test the performance of a solar thermoelectric air pre-conditioning system. Central to the system is a smart channel which will be divided into two parts: one part is for fresh air coming from outside to the existing air-conditioning system and the second part is for the used air leaving the system or room to the outside. Thermoelectric Peltier modules will be installed in the wall separating the two channels and operated by the solar PV panel. Each side of the Peltier modules will be connected to heat sinks for heat transfer enhancement. System design should be optimized to achieve an average temperature drop of 4oC to 5oC.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: I have been involved in academic and industrial research and development works over last 10 years. The overall theme of my research has been and continues to be clean energy conversion mechanisms modeling and related hardware development. In particular, the focus of my most recent research is to develop and further advance vibration based MPG (Micro Power Generator), therporaoustic (thermal-porous-acoustics) system, waste heat recovery system, and novel low-environmental impact cooling system. Other areas of interests include (a) thermoacoustic engine and refrigeration systems, (b) flexible power drive and clean energy conversion mechanisms, (c) thermal management of electronic and building.
Student roles: The student who will engage this project will Prepare a literature review to be familiar with thermoelectric cooling research works. Join a thermal design and analysis short course. Design the duct system, perform energy input and output analysis, determine the size of the heat sink. Modify an existing prototype for experimental measurement Validate the analytical model and experimental work. Write technical reports of the obtained results.
Skills required: The student must have a basic knowledge of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and energy conversion process. Students from Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering in or beyond the third and fourth year are applicable for this project. In addition, a good knowledge in COMSOL software, Tecplot, and Microsoft Excel is required.
95. Étude du comportement en compression/flexion de structures nid d'abeille de Nomex
Composite sandwich panels offer high flexural stiffness to weight ratio in comparison to standard laminates due to their light core and stiff laminate skins. Nomex honeycomb cores are frequently used in composite sandwich panels for aerospace applications. In most applications, sandwich panels are subjected to cyclic environmental conditions (temperature and humidity). Literature regarding the effect of temperature on the mechanical behaviour of sandwich panels with a Nomex core are limited especially when considering the effect of temperature on the Nomex core itself.
Nomex honeycomb core is made of aramid paper dipped in phenolic resin. Numerical simulations of Nomex core presents many challenges due to the laminate and orthotropic nature of the material as well as the complex geometry of the honeycomb core.
The objective of the project is to develop a testing and modelling methodology that will allow to predict the mechanical behavior of Nomex cores with various geometry, density and thickness at different temperatures using finite element models. To do so, experimental characterization of the Nomex constituents will be performed under different temperatures. At the same time, finite element models of the core at different scales will be developed. A combined loading test fixture will be designed to experimentally validate the models under combined compression/shear loadings at different temperatures.
Research area, student roles & skills
Research area: Composite structures are increasingly used in many applications such as space structures, wind turbines, aircraft, etc. In all of these applications, they are subjected to cyclic environmental conditions which lead to the development of internal stresses at different scales caused by the anisotropy and heterogeneity of composite structures. The cyclic nature of these internal stresses can in turn lead to damage development. Temperature and humidity also influence the mechanical properties and the fracture behavior of composites. My research aims at a better understanding of these phenomena towards the integration of environmental effects into finite element models of composite structures.
Student roles: To validate the Nomex honeycomb core numerical finite element models, a combined loading testing fixture has to be developed to evaluate the failure envelope under compression/shear loadings at different temperatures for different Nomex cores (density, cell sizes, etc.).
The student will be responsible for the design of the combined loading testing fixture for Nomex honeycomb cores. It includes: - Specifications; - Literature review; - Design; - Technical drawings; - Supervision of fabrication and assembly; - Preliminary testing and design validation.
Simple numerical simulations of the Nomex core might be necessary to help in the design process. Therefore, the student will work on a simple numerical model of the Nomex core under compression/shear loadings.
Finally, the student will develop a testing methodology for Nomex core using the fixture designed.
Skills required: The student recruited for the project will work in a small research lab. Therefore, the student must be autonomous and resourceful and demonstrate intellectual curiosity. The student will be responsible for the design of a testing fixture. Experiences in mechanical design are required. Experiences with experimental testing, composite materials and finite element simulations will be considered an asset.
The internship will take place in a French university and although the internship can be done in English, someone with no interest in learning even just a little bit of French might have difficulty integrating into the host environment.