Multi-scale modelling scheme to study hydrodynamic lubrication in the presence of different surface behaviours

4-year PhD Studentships in Tribology (in collaboration with BP)

Applications are invited for a research studentship in the field of tribological multi-scale modelling, leading to the award of a PhD degree. The post is supported by a bursary and fees (at the UK/EU student rate only) and is sponsored by the EPSRC Theory and Simulation of Materials (TSM) CDT and BP. The studentship is for 48 months from October 2014.

The primary aim of the project is to further develop and test a multi-scale modelling scheme to study hydrodynamic lubrication in the presence of different surface behaviours (oleophobic – oleophilic), surface features and textures. The realistic modelling of engineered surfaces, slip at the wall and simple polymer additives will be achieved by advancing the coupled molecular-continuum solver originally developed by the research team to study the interaction between e.g. piston rings and textured cylinders. The effect of wall and lubricant characteristics on the frictional response in different lubricating regimes will be analysed.

This PhD project is sponsored by the EPSRC TSM CDT at Imperial College and BP Technology Centre. The 4 year PhD programme in Theory and Simulation of Materials combines the one year MSc in TSM with a 3 year PhD research project (for more information refer to the TSM CDT website http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/theoryandsimulationofmaterials/programmes/mscandphd. The PhD will take place in the Tribology Group of the Mechanical Engineering Department, which has an international reputation for research excellence and comprises more than 30 PhD students as well as 13 post-doctoral researchers and 6 academic staff. It offers a vibrant and multicultural working environment.

You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person with a UK First Class degree or equivalent. You will have a background in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, Materials, Physics, Computing or a related field, and an enquiring and rigorous approach to research together with a strong intellect and disciplined work habits. Training will be given in tribology, fluid mechanics, materials and the relevant investigative techniques. You will become a skilled communicator, comfortable in an international situation. Good team-working, observational and communication skills are essential. The project will involve close collaboration with BP and you will be expected to visit and communicate with various BP Technology Centre employees.

To find out more about research at Imperial College London in this area, go to:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/mechanicalengineering

For information on how to apply, go to:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/mechanicalengineering/study/pgresearch/opportunities

For further details of the post contact Dr Daniele Dini: [Email Address Removed] or +44207594 7242. Interested applicants should send an up-to-date curriculum vitae to Dr. Dini on the above e-mail address. Suitable candidates will be required to complete an electronic application form at Imperial College London in order for their qualifications to be addressed by College Registry.

Closing date: 30th August

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