A Ph.D. studentship is available in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace
Engineering at Monash University.  The project will consider CFD modelling of
turbulence in a class of non-Newtonian fluids known as shear thinning fluids. 
This type of fluid approximates many minerals suspension, in particular high
concentration tailings suspensions.  Their flow in pipes, flumes and
free-forming channels is an important consideration in the mining industry and
impacts on energy use, tailings disposal stability, water recovery and
sustainability of the operation.

The project will focus on undertaking Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) of
turbulent flow using a Spectral Element code developed at Monash University and
extracting an understanding of how rheology modifies turbulence as well as the
likely consequences of this modification.  We aim to investigate how to extend
the code to simulate the creation and meandering of self-formed channels.
This project will be undertaken in collaboration with other research
organisations (CSIRO) and a number of major mining companies.  

Full details of the project and the application process can be found in:

http://eng.monash.edu.au/data/events/2013/document/62CFD-nonNewt-Flow-Rudman-2013.pdf

NOTE: If English is not your first language, you must also provide evidence of
your English proficiency (IELTS or equivalent) with your application.