It is traditionally assumed that a body exhibiting surface roughness will have an increased skin-friction drag when compared to a perfectly smooth counterpart. However, recent research suggests that this is not always the case. The practical relevance of this insight is that it opens up the possibility of using suitably designed roughness as a means of developing new drag reduction techniques.
Given that skin-friction drag is a major contributing factor to worldwide fuel consumption (and, therefore, greenhouse gas emissions) determining mechanisms by which it can be reduced is vital if, as a society, we are to meet global CO2 production targets.
In this project we aim to model a variety of practically relevant flow configurations that are passively controlled by the addition of surface roughness. The global aim of the project is to answer the question: "what type of surface roughness minimises skin-friction drag, and how can this be best utilised in practice?"
This implementation of the right sort of roughness may bring about considerable environmental benefits and significant cost-reduction to the aerodynamics community.
This an Applied Mathematics PhD project and, as such, it is expected that the successful candidate will have completed high-quality first degree in Mathematics of Physics to include a Masters level project in the area of fluid mechanics.
Entry criteria for applicants to PHD
· A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
PLUS
the potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a 3.5 years
· a minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component)
For further details see: https://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-students/making-an-application/
In addition to the candidate specification above it is expected that the successful candidate will have completed a high-quality first degree in Mathematics of Physics to include a Masters level project in the area of fluid mechanics. Computational modelling skills are required (one or more of MATLAB, Python, C++, etc.), experience with asymptotic modelling is seen as an advantage but not a requirement.
Informal enquires are encouraged and should be addressed to Dr Paul Griffiths – [Email Address Removed]
To apply on line please visit: https://pgrplus.coventry.ac.uk/
All applications require full supporting documentation, and a covering letter.