PhD Studentship: Experimental Validation of Variable Acceleration Rayleigh-Taylor Instability

Project Title: Experimental Validation of Variable Acceleration Rayleigh-Taylor Instability

The project:

Turbulence remains the greatest unsolved problem in classical physics. One of the most fundamental examples of turbulence is that driven by the Rayleigh-Taylor instability at interfaces between fluids with differing density. The University of Bristol has developed a world-leading experimental capability for variable acceleration Rayleigh-Taylor instability: an 11-metre-tall vertical railway with a carriage driven by an electric motor delivering 75kW at peak output, with a 40kg experimental payload accelerating at up to +/-5g.

The system is very flexible and will enable the student to explore a broad parameter regime in pursuit of the scientific goals of the project, which include characterising the rate of molecular mixing at density interfaces subject to sequences of unstable growth and stable relaxation. The student will also develop digital twinning techniques, inspired by recent progress in machine learning, which seeks to extend the reach of experimental results to provide full field physical data.

The ultimate aim is to validate sophisticated computational fluid dynamical models for the turbulent mixing processes found in Rayleigh-Taylor instability, knowing that current approaches to simulation have several well-known deficiencies. The overarching scientific purpose of this project is to improve our predictive capability by pulling simulations towards the ground-truth of experimental reality.

How to apply:

To apply for this studentship, submit a PhD application using our online application system [www.bristol.ac.uk/pg-howtoapply]

Please ensure that in the Funding section you tick “I would like to be considered for a funding award from the Mechanical Engineering Department” and specify the title of the scholarship in the “other” box below along with the name of the supervisor.  Interested candidates should apply as soon as possible.

Candidate requirements: 

Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum of a master’s degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline: Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical/Process Engineering, Physical Sciences, Applied Mathematics.

Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree.

Basic skills and knowledge required

Strong analytical skills, comfortable with the prospect of performing experiments and developing experimental apparatus. Some previous experience with software development is desirable.

Funding:

The funding for 4 years will in addition cover tuition fees subject to confirmation of award.

An enhanced stipend starting at £23,268 p.a. will include tuition fees subject to confirmation of award.

Contacts:  

For questions about the research topic please contact Dr Andrew Lawrie at Andrew.Lawrie@bristol.ac.uk

For questions about eligibility and the application process please contact CAME Postgraduate Research Admissions came-pgr-admissions@bristol.ac.uk

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