Dr Edgar Romero

Edgar joined the AAPS CDT after completing his MEng in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Surrey in 2019. Drawn by the CDT’s mission to address the sustainability challenges of our time, Edgar saw an extraordinary opportunity to expand his expertise in automotive engineering and contribute to the development of sustainable transport solutions.

His research interests span thermo-mechanical simulations, experimental methods, software-based design tools, and propulsion technologies for ground, air, and space vehicles. Edgar is an Associate Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (AMIMechE) and is passionate about remaining engaged in academia, collaborating with industry, and helping to tackle the climate crisis. Outside of research, Edgar enjoys movies, music, politics, and science - and even self-produced an instrumental EP titled Quarter Life Ponderings, available on YouTube.

PhD Focus

Edgar’s PhD project, Empirical Investigation of Heat Transfer in Additively Manufactured Heat Exchangers, explores the cutting edge of thermal management in transport systems. His work focuses on developing a methodology for rapidly and iteratively designing heat exchanger cores that meet specific heat transfer and pressure drop requirements, all while adhering to spatial constraints.

Thanks to the possibilities unlocked by 3D printing, Edgar has been able to design and test radiator configurations that were previously unfeasible. Much of his PhD has been spent in the lab, preparing and running experiments to validate these innovative designs. His research aims to improve the efficiency and sustainability of propulsion systems by optimising thermal performance in compact, high-performance components.

Looking Forward

Edgar’s future aspirations include a career that blends research, industry collaboration, and education. He sees teaching as a natural fit for his personality and communication skills, which have grown significantly during his time at AAPS. Whether through academic roles or industrial partnerships, Edgar is committed to contributing to sustainable engineering solutions and inspiring the next generation of engineers.

The Reflection on AAPS

Reflecting on his time at AAPS, Edgar describes the experience as a rollercoaster—full of challenges, growth, and meaningful connections. One of the standout lessons has been the importance of cultivating relationships, not just for career development but also for mental wellbeing. He’s learned to take ownership of his work and resources, which has sharpened his decision-making skills and given him strategies he applies in everyday life.

To Edgar, Advanced Propulsion Systems is a reminder to think holistically about transport solutions. He emphasises that “systems” is the underappreciated term—highlighting the need to consider the broader context and interconnectedness of technologies and decisions.