Ali Bahr Ennil

Dr Ali Bahr Ennil is a Lecturer in Aircraft Propulsion and Gas Turbine Engines at the University of Salford, based within the School of Science, Engineering & Environment. He is a Fellow of the UK Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and has built an international profile in turbomachinery design optimisation for renewable-energy applications.

Education & Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, University of Birmingham (2016)
• MSc (Hons, First Class) in Mechanical Engineering, Military Technical College, Egypt (2011)
• BSc in Aeronautical Engineering, Engineering Academy Tajoura, Libya (2003)

Research Interests

Dr Ennil’s work integrates advanced computational methods with practical propulsion challenges. Core themes include:

• Turbomachinery Design Optimisation: CFD-driven shape optimisation of axial and radial turbines for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency.
• Blade Cooling & Aero-thermal Design: Film-cooling studies to manage thermal loads in high-performance gas turbines.
• Green Propulsion & Energy Storage: Development of small-scale, hydrogen-compatible turbines and hybrid-electric aircraft propulsion concepts.
• Renewable Power Cycles: ORC and Brayton cycle integration with solar, low-grade heat, and compressed-air energy storage systems.

Publication Trends

Across 11 outputs (2015–2024), Dr Ennil demonstrates a clear trajectory toward multidisciplinary optimisation of small-scale axial turbines. His 2024 article extends CFD/FEA coupling for blade design, while earlier works systematically explored ORC and Brayton cycle turbines for solar and low-temperature heat sources. Continuous use of evolutionary algorithms and ANSYS CFX underlines a commitment to high-fidelity simulation and experimental validation.

Scientific Awards & Recognition

• Fellow of the UK Higher Education Academy (FHEA)

Supervision & Grants

Dr Ennil currently welcomes doctoral and master’s candidates in the following areas:

• Turbomachinery Design Optimisation
• Aerodynamic Design Optimisation using CFD Modelling
• Aircraft Hybrid-Electric Propulsion Development
• Hydrogen Storage Design Optimisation

Laboratory & Centre Affiliations

He carries out research within the Energy House Labs Innovation Institute and collaborates across the University of Salford’s interdisciplinary centres focusing on future engineering and environmental sustainability.