Microscale Mechanisms: The Influence of Particle Geometry on Aerodynamic Resuspension (PhD Studentship, EPSRC CDT in Aerosol Science) University of Bristol in United Kingdom

This fully funded 4-year PhD studentship at the University of Bristol, offered through the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Aerosol Science, investigates the microscale mechanisms by which particle geometry influences aerodynamic resuspension. Road dust resuspension is a major contributor to urban particulate air pollution, yet the fundamental processes governing the lift-off of non-spherical particles remain poorly understood. This project aims to address these knowledge gaps through innovative experimental and modeling approaches.

As a PhD student, you will design and build a novel electromagnetic measurement system to quantify the critical resuspension force for particles of varying shapes, using wind tunnel and water flume experiments. The research will systematically explore the effects of particle geometry (disc- and dome-shaped particles), aspect ratios, flow speeds, and turbulence levels. Advanced techniques such as Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) will be employed to capture flow fields immediately before resuspension, and you will develop physics-based mathematical models to explain and predict particle behavior. Extensions to the project may include studying particle-particle interactions and surface roughness effects.

The project is supervised by Dr Megan Davies Wykes, Dr R. T. Thomas, and Dr E. K. Kruger, and is part of a vibrant, multidisciplinary CDT cohort spanning eight UK universities. During the first seven months, you will receive core training in aerosol science and research methods at Bristol, followed by a short research project at your home or partner institution, and an industrial or public sector placement in Year 2 or 3. The CDT provides a collaborative environment with opportunities to work across physical, environmental, health sciences, and engineering disciplines.

Successful candidates will receive a studentship covering tuition fees, a research and training support grant, and a stipend at the standard UKRI rate, subject to eligibility. Applicants should hold or expect to achieve at least an upper second-class undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (engineering, physics, mathematics, chemistry, biological sciences, life and medical sciences, computer science, chemical or mechanical engineering, pharmaceutical or environmental sciences). Enthusiasm for experimental research and apparatus development is essential, and prior experience in experimental fluid mechanics is advantageous but not required.

Applications are accepted year-round. For further details and to apply, visit the Aerosol CDT website. Informal enquiries are welcomed by Dr Megan Davies Wykes ([email protected]). The CDT is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and will accommodate individual needs during recruitment and study.

References for further reading include recent reviews and research articles on particle resuspension and modeling approaches, available via the project page and linked resources.