PhD Studentship in Aeronautics: Theoretical/Computational Fluid dynamics (AE0058)

Start Date: 1 October 2025

Introduction: The Instability, Turbulence & Pattern Formation Group in the Department of Aeronautics focuses on research on the interface between applied mathematics and engineering science, focusing on theoretical and computational fluid dynamics. The group specialises in flow instabilities, transitions, coherent structures, turbulence and pattern formations in various fluid systems we encounter in engineering applications. For further information, see https://www.itpfg-hwang.group/ 

Objectives: You will be conducting cutting-edge theoretical and computational research in fluid mechanics combining stability and dynamical systems theories with large-scale high-fidelity numerical simulation tools (i.e. direct numerical simulation). In particular, you will be working on instabilities and transition in convection with/without shear flows. You will be expected to submit publications to leading academic journals and to present your findings at major international conferences.

Supervisors: You will be supervised by Professor Yongyun Hwang whose work is based on hydrodynamic stability theories, dynamical systems, modern control theory, reduced-order modelling, variational calculus, optimisations, mathematical modeling, and scientific computing.

Learning opportunities: You will have the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in the field of theoretical and computational fluid mechanics. You will develop an expertise in flow stability theories, dynamical systems, nonlinear dynamics, optimisations and scientific computing. You will use HPC clusters at Imperial to carry out direct numerical simulations and numerical bifurcation analysis.

Professional Development: You will have access to engaging professional development workshops in areas such as research communication, computing and data science, and professional progression through our Early Career Researcher Institute.

Duration: 3.5 years

Funding: Full coverage of tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend of £21,237 for Home, EU and International students. Information on fee status can be found at our Fees and Funding webpage.

Eligibility: You must possess (or expect to gain) a First class honours MEng/MSci or higher degree or equivalent in Engineering, Applied Mathematics or Physics and demonstrate the following experience:

• Strong background in fluid mechanics, mathematics and scientific computing;
• Basic knowledge on dynamical systems and optimisation;
• Some experience of large-scale computing would be beneficial.

How to apply: Submit your application via our Apply webpages. When submitting your application, you will need to use the following details:

• Search course/Programme: Aeronautics Research (PhD)
• Research Topic: Please use reference number AE0058
• Research Supervisor: Prof. Yongyun Hwang
• Research Group: Aero

For further information: For questions about the project, please email Professor Yongyun Hwang: y.hwang@imperial.ac.uk

For queries regarding the application process, please contact Lisa Kelly at: l.kelly@imperial.ac.uk

Application deadline: 1 March 2025

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Imperial is committed to equality and valuing diversity. We are an Athena SWAN Silver Award winner, a Stonewall Diversity Champion, a Disability Confident Employer and are working in partnership with GIRES to promote respect for trans people.