PhD Studentship in Modelling of Particle Formation in Turbulent Flows with Population Balance and DNS

Applications are invited for a research studentship in the field of fluid dynamics and population balance modelling, leading to the award of a PhD degree.

Population balance theory studies the dynamics of polydisperse particles (aerosols, crystals, cells etc.) via a transport equation that relates the evolution of particle properties to the kinetics of the physical and chemical processes occurring, such as particle growth and coagulation. Most particulate processes of interest occur in turbulent flows, which exhibit random fluctuations of velocity, chemical composition and, in the case of particulate processes, particle property distribution. In this project we aim to perform fundamental studies on the turbulence – population balance interaction via Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) and employ the results to derive a theory for population balance modelling in turbulent flow, based on transported probability density function (PDF) methods.

The work will involve theoretical and computational developments and will be based on a set of in-house codes for population balance modelling, PDF methods and DNS. An interest in fluid dynamics, computational methods and computer programming is essential, and experience in code development is desirable.

You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who meets the academic requirements for enrolment for the PhD degree at Imperial College London. You will have a 1st class honours degree (or equivalent for EU candidates) in mechanical, aeronautical or chemical engineering, or in a related engineering or science subject, and an enquiring and rigorous approach to research together with a strong intellect and disciplined work habits, as well as good team-working, observational and communication skills.

To find out more about research in these areas go to:
http://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/s.rigopoulos
http://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/g.papadakis/publications.html

For information on how to apply, go to:
http://www.imperial.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/study/phd/how-to-apply/

Interested applicants may contact and send an up-to-date CV to either Dr Stelios Rigopoulos ([Email Address Removed]) or to Dr George Papadakis ([Email Address Removed]). 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: until post filled

Imperial Managers lead by example.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity. We are also an Athena SWAN Silver Award winner, a Stonewall Diversity Champion, a Two Ticks Employer, and are working in partnership with GIRES to promote respect for trans people.