Dr Saikat Datta

Supporting the learning journey and development of students is a central motivation in my teaching. My teaching interests align with my research and academic expertise, including Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer, Thermodynamics, and Multiphase Flow. I am also enthusiastic about teaching emerging areas such as Micro/Nanoscale Transport Phenomena, Computational Fluid Dynamics, and Molecular Simulation Methods.

My research centres on the physics of non-continuum and multiphase fluid flow and heat transfer at micro- and nano-scales. These types of energy and mass transport frequently occur in emerging technologies, where classical thermofluid dynamics modelling breaks down, necessitating molecular-scale simulations (MD) and novel multiscale techniques that couple molecular-scale modelling with continuum methods such as computational fluid dynamics (CFD). I work at the intersection of engineering science and fundamental physics, aiming to bridge the gap between nanoscale phenomena and real-world applications. My work contributes to a deeper understanding of complex flow systems and informs the design of next-generation technologies in energy, water, and biomedical engineering—addressing critical engineering and societal challenges, including the global transition toward net-zero emissions and sustainable development.

Key directions within my current research focus include: a) deciphering the nanoscale physics of in situ multiphase flows in underground hydrogen storage, which is critical for enabling safe and efficient large-scale hydrogen storage—an essential component of the emerging hydrogen economy and global decarbonization efforts; b) unveiling the potential of nanoscale vibrations for de-icing wind turbines and aircraft, addressing a major challenge in cold climates where ice formation compromises energy efficiency and operational safety; c) understanding the nanoscale physics of freeze-desalination, to improve the efficiency and scalability of desalination technologies, addressing the challenge of limited access to clean drinking water in resource-constrained regions; and d) molecular-to-continuum multiscale simulation of heat and mass transport, with applications in microfluidic-devices, sensors, and lab-on-a-chip systems.

• Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship (ECF-2021-383) to pursue research on vibration-driven de-icing.
• Best Paper Award at HEFAT 2017 in Portorož for a conference paper on electrostatic droplet manipulation.