Fully-funded PhD studentship for UK/EU candidates October 2014 start

A 4-year PhD studentship is available in the Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Theory and Simulation of Materials at Imperial College London.

The position is fully funded for UK/EU candidates.

Multi-scale modelling of hydrodynamic lubrication and friction

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.

The successful candidate will have an aptitude for theory and simulation and already have, or expect to achieve a UK First Class (or equivalent) Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, Materials, Physics, Computing or a related field. Training will be given in tribology, fluid mechanics, materials and the relevant investigative techniques.

The project will involve close collaboration with BP and the successful candidate will be expected to visit and communicate with colleagues at the BP Technology Centre.

For further details of the post contact Dr Daniele Dini (d.dini@imperial.ac.uk, tel: +44 207 594 7242). Interested applicants should send an up-to-date CV 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.