PhD in Computational Simulations of Turbulent Reaction Flows for Clean Energy and Sustainable Propulsion Vrije Universiteit Brussel in Belgium

The Faculty of Engineering at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Department of Applied Mechanics, Research Group Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics (FLOW), is seeking a motivated PhD student for a doctoral grant position. The FLOW research group is a dynamic team specializing in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and data-driven modeling, with a strong focus on computational simulations and sustainable energy technologies.

This PhD position is embedded within the reacting flow group at FLOW, which addresses key challenges in the energy transition, including the development and assessment of renewable carbon-free fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia. The research aims to enhance efficient energy conversion and reduce pollutant emissions, contributing to cleaner energy solutions for sectors like gas turbines, shipping, and industrial burners.

The group utilizes advanced numerical simulation tools, including in-house codes for Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS), Large Eddy Simulation (LES), and 1D flame calculations, as well as commercial codes for Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) simulations. The successful candidate will perform state-of-the-art DNS on high-performance computers to investigate the fundamental physics of turbulent reaction flows, particularly focusing on the unique combustion characteristics and thermodiffusive instabilities of hydrogen-based fuels.

Research activities will involve conventional physical analyses and innovative machine-learning methods to analyze flame-turbulence interactions, pollutant formation, and unclosed terms relevant to LES modeling. The candidate will also develop and implement novel LES models, demonstrating their impact in real-world combustors such as burners, furnaces, and gas turbines.

In addition to research, the position includes limited teaching responsibilities, such as coordinating and supervising exercises, practical sessions, and projects within the Bachelor’s programmes in Mechanical Engineering, as well as mentoring Bachelor’s students. Duties are determined annually in consultation with the candidate.

The home base for this position is the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus (Elsene). The role offers opportunities for national and international collaboration with industrial and academic partners, publication in top-tier journals, and participation in scientific conferences.

Funding is provided through a doctoral grant. Applicants should have a strong background in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, physics, or related fields, with experience in computational fluid dynamics, numerical simulations, and combustion modeling. Skills in machine learning and high-performance computing are advantageous. Eligibility for doctoral studies at Vrije Universiteit Brussel is required.

To apply, submit your application via the university's job portal using the provided link. Prepare your CV, cover letter, and relevant academic documents. For further information, contact the FLOW research group. Follow the portal instructions for submission.