Graduate Student: MASc or PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Two-Phase Flow Boiling and Condensation of Refrigerants

Location: Thermofluids Research Laboratory (TF-LAB), Department of Mechanical Engineering, York University, Toronto, Canada

Supervisor: Prof. Roger Kempers, P.Eng.

Start date: Spring 2026 or Fall 2026

Project summary

We are seeking motivated MASc or PhD students in Mechanical Engineering to join an industrial-sponsored project on two-phase refrigerant flow boiling and condensation. The student will work closely with a post-doctoral researcher who will lead the project and with industrial collaborators. Their work will focus on experimental characterization of flow boiling and condensation, data analysis, and development/assessment of heat transfer and pressure drop correlations for unique flow boiling and condensation test section geometries supporting a wide range of industrial applications.

Key responsibilities

Working under the supervision of Prof. Kempers and the project post-doctoral researcher, the student will:

  • Assist with the design, operation and refinement of a dedicated refrigerant test loop incorporating various test sections.

  • Plan and conduct experimental campaigns on flow boiling and condensation in different test sections over relevant ranges of mass flux, heat flux, vapour quality, and saturation temperature.

  • Perform data reduction and uncertainty analysis, extracting heat transfer coefficients, pressure drops, and performance metrics.

  • Critically evaluate existing correlations and models for two-phase heat transfer against the experimental data.

  • Contribute to modelling and design tools development

  • Prepare research publications, conference presentations, and contributions to technical reports for the industrial partner.

  • Participate in regular project meetings with the industrial project and the research group, presenting results and next steps.

For a PhD student, there is scope for deeper theoretical and/or modelling contributions (e.g., improved correlations, mechanistic models, VOF-CFD modelling, high-speed flow visualization, etc.).

Essential qualifications

  • BEng/BASc in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related field) with strong academic performance;

    • For MASc: BEng/BASc required.

    • For PhD: MASc/MSc in Mechanical Engineering or related field preferred.

  • Solid background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics; coursework or project experience in boiling/condensation, refrigeration, or heat exchangers is an asset.

  • Demonstrated hands-on experience in an experimental lab (thermofluids, HVAC, heat transfer, or similar), including use of pumps, piping, and instrumentation.

  • Proficiency in MATLAB (or similar) for data analysis and basic modelling.

  • Strong English technical communication skills (written and oral) and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

 Desirable assets

  • Experience with refrigeration or vapor-compression systems (e.g., AC/heat pump labs, co-op in HVAC/R or thermal management).

  • Familiarity with plate or compact heat exchangers, two-phase flow correlations, and pressure drop models.

  • Experience with data acquisition systems and common sensors (flow, pressure, temperature).

  • Basic proficiency with SolidWorks or similar CAD and 3D printing.

 Funding & eligibility

How to apply

Interested candidates should email a single PDF file containing:

  1. A cover letter outlining research interests, relevant experience, and whether you are applying for MASc or PhD.

  2. A CV or Resume (including contact information for 2 references).

  3. Unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions.

Please send applications to: kempers@yorku.ca with subject line: “Grad Application – Two-Phase (MASc/PhD)”.