Donal Cotter

Dr Donal Cotter is a Research Associate at Ulster University's Belfast School of Architecture & the Built Environment. He works within the Centre for Sustainable Technologies, specializing in energy storage and heat pump technologies. His academic qualifications include a PhD in building energy storage (2016) and an MEng in Energy and Building Services Engineering (2012) from Ulster University.

• Education:
  • PhD in Building Energy Storage (2016)
  • MEng in Energy and Building Services Engineering (2012)
  • HNC in Construction Studies (2008)
  • Bachelor's in Manufacturing Engineering (1994)

His research focuses on high-temperature heat pumps (HTHPs), organic Rankine cycle systems, and thermal energy management. He investigates low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, industrial waste heat recovery, and thermodynamic efficiency optimization. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for sustainable energy and climate action.

Recent publications highlight his contributions to reversible heat pump systems, refrigerant-lubricant interactions, and exergo-environmental analysis of transcritical cycles. He has collaborated on projects addressing energy efficiency in domestic and industrial applications.

• Scientific Awards:
  • McBrides Prize (2012)

Dr Cotter maintains affiliations with professional bodies including the Institute of Engineers of Ireland (IEI), Institute of Refrigeration (IOR), and Higher Education Academy (HEA). His professional experience spans construction, mechanical engineering, and project management roles over 15 years.