* PhD Studentship: Control of turbulent fluids *

* Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics group, University of Southampton *

In collaboration with researchers at Caltech and Monash University, this project
is a unique opportunity to develop and use new theoretical results to understand
and control the physics of turbulent flows relevant to aerodynamic and
hydrodynamic applications. You will become a part of a group of talented and
highly motivated researchers in the Aerodynamics group, researching wall-bounded
turbulence.

The work is to design compliant flow surfaces to interact with turbulent pipe
flow, in order to eliminate drag or shape the characteristics of the turbulence.
The objective of this research is to transform a recently developed theoretical
framework describing energetic motions in turbulent pipe flows into a new
methodology for control of these flows.

From this will come the ability to reduce energy expended in pumping fluids in
pipe networks, and to increase heat transfer in process equipment. Since
turbulent pipe flow is broadly representative of other wall-bounded turbulence,
the understanding and methodology developed will carry over to a vast range of
flow-related applications.

The investigation will make use of direct numerical simulation (DNS) and ideas
originating from a systems theory analysis of turbulent flows.


* Knowledge / skills / requirements *

The candidate must have an interest in control theory and in fluid mechanics,
ideally turbulence. The successful candidate must also be self-motivated.

Prospective candidates must have or be expecting a good 4-year or MSc degree
(preferably 1st class) in a relevant subject (Engineering, Maths, Physics) and
should enjoy mathematical work. Programming experience would be advantageous.

Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to
publish and present scientific results, are essential.


* Duration: 3 years funded *


* Funding *

For UK/EU students the tuition fees will be fully funded, and the student will
receive a tax free stipend of £13,590 per year.
Unfortunately we are not able to fund non-EU students for this position.

* To apply *

Informal enquiries are welcome by email.

To apply, please send a letter expressing your interest in the position, a copy
of your CV with the contacts of two academic referees and, if possible, a
transcript of 3rd/4th year courses taken, as a single pdf file.