PhD Studentship : DPhil in Engineering IDLA: Isogeometric Modelling of High-rate Conditions for Aerospace

4-year D.Phil. studentship 

Supervisors: Dr Simone Falco, Prof Daniel Eakins

Classic finite elements approach (FEA) approximate the shape of the model using elements with planar faces, therefore representing curved surfaces with piecewise linear approximations. The error introduced by using FE is particularly limiting when modelling dynamic events, as numerical dispersion and dissipation error of waves are exacerbated by the piecewise geometry of the domain boundary. Isogeometric modelling combines FEA with Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines (NURBS) to represent the domain boundaries exactly, therefore eliminating the geometrical approximation error. The increased fidelity of the modelling, however, comes at the cost of increased complexity in the shape function formulation, which in turns affects the numerical evaluation of deformation and stress in the elements.

In this DPhil project, you will develop and implement novel, NURBS based, element formulations and validate the application of IGA to mechanical problems with complex features and close to material failure at high rate (e.g. extreme deformation, contacts, failure). Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to assess the scalability of IGA in Massively Parallel Processing simulations, exploring novel aspects of numerical modelling and expanding the computational mechanics capabilities of the group.

This project offers the opportunity to join a vibrant research group and undertake ground-breaking research in the fields of impact engineering, shock- physics, and materials science, involving elements of both experimental and computational physics. You will be based at Begbroke Science Park as part of the Impact and Shock Mechanics group, composed of more than 30 members including 15 students.

Eligibility

This studentship is fully funded by Dstl, and is open to UK student (full award – fees plus stipend).

Award Value

Course fees are covered at the level set for UK students (c. £10,070 p.a.). The stipend (tax-free maintenance grant) is c. £20,780 p.a. for the first year, and at least this amount for a further three years. 

Candidate Requirements

Prospective candidates will be judged according to how well they meet the following criteria:

• A first class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in Engineering, Physics or Materials Science
• Excellent English written and spoken communication skills

The following skills are also highly desirable:

• Ability to program in Matlab, Python or similar
• Strong laboratory-based skills

Application Procedure

Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be addressed to Prof Daniel Eakins (daniel.eakins@eng.ox.ac.uk).

Candidates must submit a graduate application form and are expected to meet the graduate admissions criteria. To apply please visit the course page of the University website.

Application deadline:  noon on Friday 6th of June 2025

Start date: October 2025

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