Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) is welcoming students from Oxford University to take part in research internships in Wuhan, China. This year, HUST provide interns with challenging and meaningful internship experiences and Chinese cultural immersion classes over the summer.

The duration of 2025 Summer internship program is from the June 30th to August 8th, 2025 (For registration: June 28th to June 29th, 2025). 

HUST is initially offering 12 positions on projects based at the China-EU Institute for Clean and Renewable Energy (ICARE) in the January-February round of adverts. Additional internship positions at HUST are expected in Scientific Research and Chinese Governance and Society in future rounds of the Summer Internship Programme, to be advertised in March (subject to the availability of additional Internship Office funding).

Internship in Scientific Research

① China-EU Institute for Clean and Renewable Energy

#1 Prof. Guo Limin’s research team (Position: 1)

#2 Prof. Luo Xiaobing’s research team (Positions: 1)

#3 Prof. Hu Song’s research team (Positions: 1)

#4 Prof. Chen Rong’s research team (Position: 1)

#5 Prof. Chen Rong’s research team (Position: 1)

#6 Associate researcher Li Huayao’s research team (Positions: 1)

#7 Prof. Chen Huanxin’s research team (Positions: 1)

#8 Prof. Liu Xiaowei’s research team (Positions: 1)

#9 Prof. Zhao Yongchun’s research team (Positions: 1)

#10 Prof. Luo Cong’s research team (Positions: 1)

#11 Prof. Yang Qing’s research team (Position: 1)

#12 Prof. Yang Jun’s research team (Positions: 1)

Year of 2024 marks the 10th anniversary of "HUST-Oxford" Summer Internship Program and the University of Oxford specially built up the webpage to celebrate the partnership between two universities: https://www.careers.ox.ac.uk/article/10-years-of-internships-at-hust 

HUST also specifically produced a commemorative video for celebrating the 10th anniversary of "HUST-OXFORD" Summer Internship Program: 

http://discover.hust.edu.cn/fore/courses/courseDetail.do?sid=24120614403026313531626 

Besides, please feel free to watch our promotional video for 2024 "HUST-OXFORD" Summer Internship Program: 

http://discover.hust.edu.cn/fore/courses/courseDetail.do?sid=24110711385333159565845

Internship in Scientific Research

①China-EU Institute for Clean and Renewable Energy

#1 Prof. Guo Limin’s research team (Position: 1)

Introduction to the project (lab):

This project provides a scheme of CO₂ catalytic conversion. CO₂ has attracted a lot of attention over the last 20 years due to the link between the increases in CO₂ emissions with the rise in global temperatures and especially recently high motivation for carbon neutral society scenarios (2050 for EU and Japan; 2060 for China). Rather than viewing the CO₂ as a waste material, the conversion of CO₂ to value added products, such as methane, methanol, ethanol, olefin and other hydrocarbons, has attracted much attention.

Project Aims:

The aims of this project are to catalyze CO₂ to methanol. By the means of catalytic pathway design and catalysts synthesize to achieve the high activity and selectivity. Moreover, our lab also aims at better understanding CO₂ activation and catalytic mechanism by using variety of characterization methods.

Methods:

This project applies the methods including:

-catalyst preparation

-catalyst characterization: X-Ray Diffraction, Scanning electron microscope, Transmission electron microscope, in-situ diffuse reflectance fourier transform infrared spectroscopy etc.

-catalytic activity measurements

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns, the student can learn:

1. An ability in catalyst preparation.

2. An ability in catalyst characterization.

3. An ability in catalytic activity measurements.

Project summary：

This project is significant for the utilization of CO₂ as the feedstock for high valued molecules synthesis through the heterogeneous catalytic process.

Assessment：

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns. The interns should have an interest in the field of chemistry.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly chemistry, nanomaterials and so on.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#2 Prof. Luo Xiaobing’s research team (Positions: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

This project provides new ideas for the thermal solutions under two scenarios: the miniaturization of electronic devices and the high-temperature environment. In the confined space, the performance requirements of micro pump, a key driving component of the liquid cooling system, are fulfilled. In high temperature environment, the protection of electronic devices is achieved.

Project Aims:

This internship project aims to (1) design and optimize a micro pump; (2) design heat dissipation for electronic devices in high temperature environment.

Methods:

This project applies the methods of (1) fluid simulation; (2) heat transfer simulation.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1. Deep understanding of hydrodynamic and heat transfer simulations and processes.

2. A skill in usage of simulation software.

3. An ability in paper writing and oral presentation.

Project summary

This project is significant for the thermal management of electronic devices.

Assessment：

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the fields of energy utilization, thermal management technology and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly heat transfer, hydrodynamics, mathematics and so on.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#3 Prof. Hu Song’s research team (Positions: 1)

Introduction to the project (lab):

This project aims to explore innovative approaches to the synergistic utilization of multi-energy systems for biomass gasification and hydrogen production. With the continuous development of agricultural and forestry industries, the accumulation of biomass residues has increased, posing significant environmental challenges if not treated properly. However, biomass residues, such as agricultural waste, forestry by-products, and organic materials, represent valuable renewable resources. Efficiently converting these residues into high-value products like hydrogen can simultaneously advance industrial sustainability and contribute to ‘carbon neutrality’.

The research team includes experienced professionals and has a strong track record of hosting international students, including 10 from Oxford University and 13 others from various institutions. Students with interests in energy and biomass utilization are encouraged to participate in this project.

State-of-the-art experimental facilities and a highly supportive research environment are available, ensuring an optimal learning and research experience.

Project Aims:

This internship project aims to investigate the potential of biomass gasification for hydrogen production in China. Interns will be involved in process simulation, conducting economic and environmental assessments, and understanding the market potential of the technology. You will also get hands-on experience with scientific research instruments and observe how biomass is converted into gas, including hydrogen.

Interns will learn about the basics of biomass conversion, novel thermal conversion technologies, and the practical steps involved in bringing this technology to commercial application. At the same time, we will also organize the investigation of the resources and environment around Wuhan city.

Methods:

This project applies the following methods:

1. Laboratory visits and experimental observations,

2. Systematic data acquisition and research,

3. Process modeling and computational simulations,

4. Comprehensive data analysis to evaluate performance metrics.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1. Gain a comprehensive understanding of biomass gasification and hydrogen production processes.

2. Acquire skills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

3. Develop proficiency in using process simulation and life cycle assessment software.

4. Enhance their capabilities in academic writing and technical presentations.

Project summary:

The utilization of multi-energy systems for biomass gasification and hydrogen production represents a critical advancement in energy conversion technologies and the high-value utilization of biomass resources. This project contributes to the ongoing development of sustainable energy solutions, offering participants a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research while acquiring valuable technical and analytical skills.

Assessment：

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the fields of energy utilization, chemical engineering, thermal conversion technology and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly energy, chemistry, physics, mathematics and so on.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#4 Prof. Chen Rong’s research team (Position: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

For hydrogen fuel cell, the activity and durability of carbon supported Pt based electrocatalysts are unchanging goals for the widespread application. Atomic layer deposition is known for its atom-level control accuracy over the film growth on substrates or NPs based on self-limiting chemical half-reactions. This project provides new ideas to improve the activity and durability of Pt catalyst for hydrogen fuel cell based on atomically surface and interface modification on Pt nanoparticle.

Project Aims:

This internship project aims to minimize the reliance on precious metals in hydrogen fuel cells, thus optimizing their performance.

Methods:

Research on the preparation technology of high-efficiency precious metal catalysts for hydrogen fuel cells based on micro/nano particle atomic layer deposition technology, to achieve the reduction of precious metals in hydrogen fuel cells.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained: 1) Deep understanding of the application of micro/nano particle atomic layer deposition technology in hydrogen fuel cells. 2) A skill in usage of preparation and characterization equipment of membrane electrode assembly for fuel cell. 3) An ability in paper writing and oral presentation.

Project summary:

Based on atomic layer deposition technology, develop a powerful technique to coat high-energy particles and noble metal nanoparticles to provide efficient precious metal catalysts for hydrogen fuel cells.

Assessment:

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the fields of energy and electronics, heat and mass tranfer processes, micro/nano fabrication, Atomic Layer Deposition and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly energy, thermodynamics, chemistry, physics, engineering and so on.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#5 Prof. Chen Rong’s research team (Position: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted significant attention due to their fast and low-cost solution fabrication, where electron transport layer (ETL) and hole transport layer (HTL) shall be optimized to achieve high efficiency. Atomic layer deposition is known for high quality and uniform nanoscale thin film due to the self-limiting chemical half-reactions. This project provides new ideas to improve the electrical and optical property of ETL and HTL for perovskite solar cells through ALD.

Project Aims:

This internship project aims to deposit high quality ETL or HTL for perovskite solar cells devices, thus optimizing their performance.

Methods:

Research on the preparation technology of functional thin films in perovskite solar cells solar cells based on thermal and spatial atomic layer deposition.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained: 1) Deep understanding of the application of ETL/HTL atomic layer deposition technology in perovskite solar cells. 2) A skill in usage of preparation and characterization equipment of ETL/HTL films for perovskite solar cells. 3) An ability in paper writing and oral presentation.

Project summary

Based on atomic layer deposition technology, develop a powerful technique to deposit high quality ETL/HTL films for perovskite solar cells.

Assessment

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the fields of energy and electronics, heat and mass tranfer processes, micro/nano fabrication, Atomic Layer Deposition and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly energy, thermodynamics, chemistry, physics, engineering and so on.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#6 Associate researcher Li Huayao’s research team (Positions: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

Background of the project.

Hydrogen power has emerged as a promising solution to combat global warming due to its high energy density (120–142 MJ/kg), renewable nature, and zero carbon emissions during combustion. In particular, hydrogen energy vehicles have attracted public attention because of their advantages, including zero pollution, zero emissions, high storage capacity, and sufficient power. However, the technical challenges associated with the safe storage and utilization of hydrogen remain significant due to the low minimum ignition energy (0.019 mJ), high combustion heat (142 kJ/g), and wide flammability range (4%–75%)  Real-time monitoring of hydrogen leakage is crucial throughout the entire processes of production, storage, and transportation.

Artificial olfaction, known as machine olfaction or electronic nose technology, refers to the creation of systems that mimic the human sense of smell using electronic sensors and pattern recognition algorithms. Much like how our sense of smell works through detecting and recognizing different odors, artificial olfaction aims to replicate this capability using technology.

The application of electronic nose technology in the hydrogen energy field is primarily manifested in the monitoring of industrial safety. The electronic nose can perform real-time monitoring of hydrogen and its mixed gases by integrating various gas sensors. Its high sensitivity and rapid response capability enable the electronic nose to effectively identify weak signals of hydrogen leaks and issue corresponding alarms, thereby ensuring the safe operation of hydrogen energy systems. These characteristics make the electronic nose an important detection and monitoring tool in the hydrogen energy industry, contributing to the safe and efficient application of hydrogen energy.

The electronic nose is a pivotal detection and monitoring asset in the hydrogen sector, ensuring the safe and efficient utilization of hydrogen energy. It strives to boost sensitivity, precision, and adaptability, enabling it to tackle more intricate olfactory challenges and profoundly impacting a range of industries through its machine-aided olfactory detection and identification capabilities

The content of the project

(1) Design and Synthesis of Hydrogen-Sensitive Materials

(2) Design and Simulation of Field-Effect Transistor Sensors

(3) Deep learning algorithms design

(4) Electronic nose assembly and application

Project Aims:

The aim of this project is to to realize an intelligent artificial olfactory system, and the project aims to achieve real-time monitoring throughout the entire process of hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and usage, as well as to promote the development of the hydrogen energy application field.

Methods:

1)Material synthesis and characterization

2)Device simulation and fabrication (by TCAD)

3)Algorithm design (by Python)

4) Data analysis (by Python and SPSS)

5)Algorithm design (by Python)

6)Data analysis (by Python and SPSS)

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1) An ability in logical thinking and systematic design

2) An ability in material synthesis, device fabrication and data analysis

3) An ability in paper writing and oral presentation.

Project summary:

This project focuses on the realization of artificial olfactory, including material synthesis (chemical synthesis), Micro-nano fabrication technology (Field-Effect Transistor), algorithm design (Python) and data analysis(SPSS or Python), and application in environment monitoring and breath analysis.

Assessment:

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the field of materials, semiconductor device, or algorithm and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly ( chemistry, semiconductor physics or computer science ) .

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#7 Prof. Chen Huanxin’s research team (Positions: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

Background of the project.

This project will focus on the hot issue of high energy consumption of building HVAC systems. In the building system, the energy consumption of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system accounts for 40%-60% of the energy consumption of the whole building system. Therefore, it is of great significance to construct an energy consumption prediction model for the internal air conditioning system of the building and realize high precision energy consumption prediction.

In recent years, with the development of technologies such as the Internet of Things, the measured data collection level of HVAC system is constantly improving, but there are still problems such as data quality that limit the development of energy consumption prediction. At the same time, in 2021, the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development issued a document pointing out that it is necessary to promote intelligent production, promote intelligent construction, develop digital design, build Internet platforms for the construction industry and accelerate the digital transformation and upgrading of the construction industry. Therefore, it is worth studying how to improve energy consumption prediction effect, promote energy conservation and carbon reduction of buildings and improve energy efficiency of buildings based on new digital technologies such as big data and artificial intelligence under existing deficiencies.

Therefore, this project will take building HVAC system as the research object, develop energy consumption prediction model, effectively analyze its energy performance and energy saving potential, and control building operation mode, improve energy utilization efficiency and reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

The content of project.

To develop building HVAC energy consumption prediction system, it is necessary to integrate geometeorological information and building operation information, collect the operation data of HVAC system, display the operating status of equipment in real time, and carry out automatic analysis and information feedback. The project needs to achieve two important functions:

1) Detect abnormal running state of HVAC system and provide warning.

2) Real-time collection and prediction of energy consumption data of building HVAC system.

An energy consumption forecasting system need to be established from four aspects: data acquisition, data calculation, data display and data application. Data acquisition is when sensors of HVAC systems and equipment send real-time data to computing servers via the Internet of Things according to specified communication protocols. Data calculation is to use big data analysis method and machine learning algorithm to analyze real-time data and give results, such as abnormal alarm information, energy consumption distribution information, energy consumption prediction results, optimization control signals, etc. For example, real-time monitoring of HVAC system, abnormal alarm and record, equipment asset information, energy consumption prediction results, energy saving and optimization control history, comprehensive statistical analysis report, etc. Data display is the display of all information from the system in the form of charts, tables and graphs, etc. Data application refers to the evaluation of future energy saving measures or other improvement plans by managers or decision makers based on available information.

Project Aims:

This internship project aims to develop energy consumption prediction model of building HVAC system, realize data acquisition and transmission, and carry out real-time monitoring and control of system operation and energy consumption. At the same time, when system abnormalities and excessive energy consumption are found and demand side responds to demand, timely warning and control can be achieved, and real-time energy consumption prediction can be made to predict short-term energy consumption with high precision.

Methods:

1. The operation and maintenance system software of this project is mainly written as Python.

2. The visual design of vehicle and subway station structures in this project can be done by using EnergyPlus and other software.

3. The object of this project is building HVAC system, and the main method is big data analysis. Therefore, big data analysis and machine learning algorithm are used widely in this project.

4. The air conditioning equipment data and communication protocol will be provided. Energy consumption prediction methods will be trained and guided by our research group.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1. Deep understanding of building HVAC system.

2. Learning the real cooling system of commercial building.

3. Deep understanding of how to apply big data analysis and artificial intelligence method into energy consumption prediction system.

4. An ability in programming based on python.

5. An ability in designing energy prediction model of building HVAC system based on EnergyPlus and other software.

Project summary：

The intelligent operation and maintenance system of building air conditioning system is meaningful and significant for energy saving. The project will be interesting for interns, and we are looking forward to your joining.  

Assessment：

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the fields of big data analysis, machine learning, smart city, intelligent operation and maintenance of HVAC systems and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly mechanical equipment, heating, ventilation and air condition system, programming, big data analysis.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#8 Prof. Liu Xiaowei’s research team (Positions: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

This project provides new ideas on the utilization of stable combustion in coal blended with hydrogen/ammonia, along with the understanding and regulation methods concerning the formation of pollutants. Utilizing a 50kW self-stabilizing one-dimensional furnace and a sophisticated high-temperature laminar settling furnace reactor equipped with controllable atmosphere conditions, this investigative endeavor meticulously elucidates the intricate combustion field characteristics across the entire spectrum of ignition, combustion, and burnout for coal blended with hydrogen/ammonia. Furthermore, it delves into the detailed formation mechanisms and patterns of pollutants, encompassing NO_x, PM2.5, and SO_x.

Project Aims:

This internship project aims to study the combustion field characteristics and pollutant formation patterns throughout the entire process of coal blended with hydrogen and ammonia.

Methods:

Hydrogen energy has played a pivotal role in advancing human society, earning seven Nobel Prizes in related fields. However, integrating wind and solar power into the grid poses significant challenges and requires substantial investments. To effectively harness this renewable energy, green hydrogen and green ammonia produced through green electricity emerge as promising low-carbon energy solutions. This project leverages a 50kW self-stabilizing combustion experimental platform to conduct in-depth research on the combustion characteristics of coal blended with hydrogen/ammonia, encompassing flame behavior, temperature distribution along the combustion path, and emissions of pollutants such as PM2.5, NO_x, and SO_x.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1. Deep understanding of experiments conduction and processes.

2. A skill in usage of using a 50kW self-stabilizing combustion experimental platform and high-temperature laminar settling furnace reactor.

3. An ability in paper writing and oral presentation.

4. Capability for comprehensive in-situ gas sampling and analysis, coupled with expertise in collecting and analyzing particulate matter at the tail end.

Project summary：

This project is significant for the utilization of hydrogen energy / ammonia energy

Assessment：

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the fields of hydrogen energy and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly energy, chemistry, physics.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#9 Prof. Zhao Yongchun’s research team (Positions: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

Background of the project.

This project will focus on photocatalytic CO₂ reduction. CO₂ actively responds to the energy crisis and greenhouse effect. Driven by the sunlight, the technology of  photocatalytic CO₂ reduction could converse CO₂ into renewable hydrocarbon fuel under mild reaction conditions.

The content of project is learning the methods of catalyst synthesis, characterization, experimental design and data analysis.

Project Aims:

This internship project aims to develop new and efficient photocatalyst for photocatalytic CO₂ reduction, design new photocatalytic conversion pathways for CO₂, and reveal the mechanism for photocatalytic CO₂ reduction.

Methods:

1. Catalyst synthesis

2. In-situ characterization

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1. Deep understanding of the technology of photocatalytic CO₂ reduction.

2. Learning the methods of materials synthesis.

3. An ability in material characterization and data analysis.

Project summary:

This project is advanced materials synthesis for photocatalytic CO₂ reduction and mechanism unveiling.

Assessment:

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the field of photocatalysis and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly chemistry, nanomaterials.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#10 Prof. Luo Cong’s research team (Positions: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

This project will focus on CO₂ capture and utilization technologies.The content of project is to learn knowledge about capture and utilization of carbon dioxide, including adsorbent technology, chemical looping, oxygen-enriched combustion, CO₂ conversion and utilization, etc.

Project Aims:

The aim of this project is to realize the issue of Global Warming and Greenhouse Effect and the importance of controlling carbon dioxide emissions.

Methods:

Experimental and simulation works in developing carbon capture and utilization technologies, including the design of CO₂ sorbent, solvent, and oxygen carriers, operation of lab-scale bench tests.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1.Understanding of carbon capture and utilization technologies

2.Learning the CO₂ capture demonstration projects in China

Project summary:

This project is to report on the research progress in CO₂ capture and utilization in China.

Assessment:

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns. Students from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, China, as well as those who love Chinese cultures, are highly expected, and we will organize additional tours in or around Wuhan city in one weekend.

The interns should have an interest in the field of CO₂ capture and utilization, and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly energy engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, economics and so on.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#11 Prof. Yang Qing’s research team (Position: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

The Energy and Economics lab specializes in the study of energy systems, climate change, resource management, and environmental interactions. The lab has built a multidisciplinary team of students proficient in energy system modeling, leveraging big data and artificial intelligence techniques. Their work also covers areas such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), renewable energy potential evaluation, and the analysis of environmental and economic impacts. Over time, the team has developed significant expertise and made pioneering contributions in carbon footprint calculation and energy system transformation pathways. The team has successfully completed numerous national key scientific research projects and published over 100 papers in top-tier journals, including PNAS and Nature Communications.

The project we are currently working on is the environmental impact assessment of renewable energy, especially photovoltaic solar energy generation units. We focus on the impacts of renewable energy development on the environment in China, and its feedback on carbon emissions.

Project Aims:

This internship project aims to assess the environmental impacts of renewable energy development in China, with a primary focus on solar energy. The project seeks to explore the relationship between the rapid growth of renewable energy and its environmental consequences. The findings will provide valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers to help design a more sustainable development pathway for renewable energy in China.

Methods:

1. Geographic Information System (GIS)

2. Remote sensing (RS)

3. Python programming

4. Basic machine learning algorithms

5. Cloud computing platform, mainly Google Earth Engine

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1. An ability in using GIS software

2. A basic understanding of cloud computing platforms such as Google Earth Engine

3. Skills in reading and writing Python programs

4. Experience and skills in scientific paper reading and writing

Project summary:

The development of renewable energy is crucial for achieving net-zero emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. However, the construction of renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar farms, can also result in negative environmental impacts, including effects on biodiversity, food security, and water availability. Therefore, it is essential to quantify these environmental impacts.

This project will focus on evaluating the carbon footprints of photovoltaic solar energy generation units in China. It aims to identify carbon-emission characteristics of large-scale solar energy installations using remote sensing imagery. By quantifying the environmental impacts of these commercial solar units, the project will provide policymakers with a comprehensive view of the rapid expansion of solar farms and their environmental consequences.

We welcome interns with a basic understanding of renewable energy and an interest in GIS, machine learning (image recognition), cloud computing, and Python programming. We look forward to having you join the project!

Assessment:

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the field of renewables and environment interactions and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly renewable energy and machine learning.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.

#12 Prof. Yang Jun’s research team (Positions: 1)

Introduction to the project(lab):

This project provides idea on the establishment of a coupled production and deployment system of nuclear energy and hydrogen energy. Nuclear power plant, especially ones with small modular reactor, can be linked to a hydrogen generation plant with hydrogen storage equipment. Both energy can be coupled to deal with the electric grid need.

The contents of project:

To investigate nuclear-hydrogen coupled energy system and demonstrate the operation mechanism of a conceptual design of a nuclear power plant coupled with hydrogen production and storage system.

Project Aims:

This project provides an opportunity to build a simple model to demonstrate the operation mechanism of an innovation design of nuclear-hydrogen coupled energy system.

Methods:

This project requires to establish a model, with MATLAB, Modelica or other tools, to reflect the operation of innovation design of nuclear-hydrogen coupled system.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this project interns should have gained:

1. Understanding the idea of nuclear-hydrogen coupled energy systems.

2. An ability in using some multi-dimensional software to do basic 2D or 3D design.

3. An ability in programming to perform fundamental energy conversion calculation.

Project summary:

This project is a training to study and establish a simple demonstration model to show the operation mechanism of a nuclear-hydrogen coupled energy system.

Assessment:

Oral presentation is required by the end of internship.

Online feedback is required when the oral presentation is finished.

Applicant profile:

We are interested in the undergraduate interns.

The interns should have an interest in the fields of hydrogen energy production and utilization and have already demonstrated strong research potential.

In addition, they should have studied the basic knowledge about a range of fields in science and technology, particularly thermodynamics, heat transfer and so on.

It is no matter whether the interns understand Chinese or not, English as well as Chinese are our language of instruction and work.