Active particles in complex geometry environments

The ability of bacteria, microalgae and other swimming microorganisms to migrate through self-propulsion is crucial for their survival. We witness it in diverse processes in science and engineering, often in environments with complex geometries, such as biological tissues, soils and filtration devices where walls and obstacles are prevalent. Consequently, the interactions of swimming microorganisms with boundaries are inevitable and dominate their transport dynamics.

Our understanding of these interactions in flat geometries has achieved significant progress in the last decade or so. In contrast, very little is known about their effect on macroscopic transport in more complex geometry environments. Advancing this knowledge is the aim of this project.

The proposed approach is to consider a range of mathematical models posed in complex geometries in order to develop and validate realistic descriptions of active particle transport. The goal is to develop efficient and accurate predictions that elucidate the dominant physical mechanisms. This challenge will be achieved by combining systematic coarse-graining procedures with advanced computational techniques.

The project will provide broad training in both applied and computational methods, followed by their application in an interdisciplinary context, from the analysis of the equations to the development of reduced asymptotic models and the validation of numerical algorithms. The gained skills will be highly valuable in both academia and industry. The student will integrate into a vibrant research environment, closely interacting with members of two groups: mathematical biology and healthcare and numerical analysis and optimization.

Entry requirements:

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly-motivated graduate with

- a UK first class honours degree, or its international equivalent, in an appropriate subject; or a UK 2:1 honours degree plus a UK Master’s degree, or their international equivalents,

- a solid background in applied mathematics,

- good programming skills,

- good communication skills (oral and written).

The application procedure and the deadlines for scholarship applications are advertised on the University of Birmingham PhD pages.

Informal inquiries should be directed to email: Dr Alexandra Tzella<a.tzella@bham.ac.uk> and Dr Daniel Loghin<d.loghin@bham.ac.uk>.

Funding Notes:

For UK candidates:

Funding may be available through a college or EPSRC scholarship in competition with all other PhD applications.

The scholarship will cover tuition fees, training support, and a stipend at standard rates for 3-3.5 years.

Early applications are strongly recommended; for consideration at the first scholarship panel, please apply by the 14th January 2024, though applications will still be considered after this date.

For non-UK candidates:

Strong self-funded applicants will be considered.

Exceptionally strong candidates in this category may be awarded a tuition fee waiver (for up to 3 years) in competition with all other PhD applications.

For Chinese candidates:

The China Scholarship Council (CSC) Scholarship

China Scholarship Council (CSC) PhD Scholarships Programme at the University of Birmingham

PhD Placements and Supervisor Mobility Grants China-UK