PhD Position in Mechanical Engineering

PhD Position in Mechanical Engineering

There are some exciting opportunities based within the MAS Research Group within the Faculty of Engineering (FoE) which conducts cutting edge research in the fields of transport and energy, focusing on future sustainability challenges. We use simulations and experimental techniques to develop the knowledge & understanding of the underlying engineering science and enable new products, processes, and tools. MAS works closely with industrial partners and other research organisations to deliver world leading research and innovation from the fundamental to applied.

Vision

We are seeking PhD students that are motivated and passionate about engineering. We have a broad range of active research areas, some of which are highlighted below. You will have the opportunity to study alongside world-leading academics and industrial partners. To support our research we have a wide range of experimental facilities as well as access to HPC compute facilities and software.

Motivation 

The MAS group research uses high fidelity modelling coupled with low order design tools, including developing machine learning techniques, to enable solutions to multi-physics problems.  Using our own experimental facilities we generate in-house validation for our numerical modelling approaches.  By devising new experimental approaches, combined with well-established visualization and laser diagnostic approaches, our research provides insight and understanding of the underlying engineering phenomena that, when coupled with numerical modelling, provides the fundamental research that is translated to facilitate novel solutions.

Aim

We have active research across a range of fields, and examples of potential PhD projects are shown below. Please contact us to discuss topics in more detail.

Rotordynamics & Vibration

• Loads and aeroelasticity of electric aircraft wing with distributed electric propulsors.
• Gust load alleviation of high aspect ratio wings using nonlinear absorbers.
• Nonlinear dynamics and stability of rotating shafts partially filled with liquid.
• Noise and vibration attenuation of rotating blades.

Solid Mechanics & Materials Characterisation

• Integration of advanced error estimates in finite element codes for efficient structural design.
• Experimental and numerical analysis of extreme (high and low) temperature and loading rate effects on constitutive properties of modern engineering materials.
• Machine learning based meta models for complex engineering system simulation.

Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics

• Development of data-driven turbulence models for multiphase computational fluid dynamics CFD using machine learning. 
• Computational and experimental investigations of contact region behaviour in highly loaded thin-films.
• Developing experimental techniques to understand interfacial turbulence in multi-phase flows. Thin film experimental sensing.

Who we are looking for

Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and resourceful individuals with a curious mind and an interest in applying engineering principles and practices to create more sustainable energy and transport solutions.

1st or a 2:1 in undergraduate degree in a relevant subject (Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy and Materials Engineering) or an MRes/MSc in a relevant field (similar fields to those listed above).

Funding support

Fully funded studentships, which includes a minimum tax-free stipend of £18,622, are competitively available for home fee eligible students for an October 2024 start.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The Faculty of Engineering provides a thriving working environment for all post-graduate research students (PGRs) creating a strong sense of community across research disciplines. Community and research culture is important to our PGRs and the FoE support this by working closely with our Postgraduate Research Society (PGES) and our PGR Research Group Reps to enhance the research environment for PGRs. PGRs benefit from training through the Researcher Academy’s Training Programme.  In addition those based within the Faculty of Engineering have access to bespoke courses developed for Engineering PGRs including sessions on paper writing, networking and career development after their PhD. The Faculty has outstanding facilities and works in partnership with leading industrial partners. 

How to Apply

Applicants should apply by emailing Research Administrator - Adam Morgan (adam.morgan4@nottingham.ac.uk)

 In your email, you need to provide the following information:

   * Your fee status (UK Home Fees or International)
   * Your CV
   * A statement of your research interests

In your application, please refer to Polytechnicpositions.com