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University of Southampton

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PhD in Turbulence and Drag Over Complex Surfaces University of Southampton in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Environmental Science

Funding

Competition Funded PhD Project for students worldwide. Funding opportunities include Horizon Europe fee waivers that cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students, University Presidential Bursaries that cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants, and competition-based studentships that typically cover UK-level tuition fees plus a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis.

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United Kingdom

University

University of Southampton

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Keywords

Environmental Science
Mechanical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Marine Engineering
Fluid Mechanics
Civil Engineering
Turbulence
Surface Roughness
Data-driven Modeling
Particle Tracking

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About this position

PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in turbulence, drag, rough surfaces, and fluid mechanics.

This project, based in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, investigates how roughness geometry changes turbulent boundary layers and drag. The research combines advanced wind-tunnel experiments, 3D Particle Tracking Velocimetry (PTV), and direct drag measurements to build new geometry-dependent drag models and expand an internationally used roughness database.

The work is highly relevant to aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, marine engineering, and broader flow-physics applications such as marine hull coatings, biofouling, pipelines, and natural rough surfaces like river beds. The project is also carried out in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University in the United States, where complementary high-fidelity simulations will support the experimental programme.

Training includes wind-tunnel experimentation, Particle Image and tracking Velocimetry, direct drag measurements, scientific programming, uncertainty analysis, and data-driven modelling. The project is designed for students who want hands-on experimental research with strong computational and collaborative elements.

Eligibility: applicants should hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent. An English language qualification is required if applicable.

Funding: this is a competition-funded PhD project for students worldwide. Funding options may include Horizon Europe fee waivers, University Presidential Bursaries, or school studentships that typically cover UK tuition fees and provide a living stipend for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged.

How to apply: apply through the University of Southampton portal. Select Research, 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, then choose full time or part time and search for PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175). Add the supervisor name in section 2 and submit the required documents: CV, two academic references, transcripts/certificates, and English language evidence if needed.

Funding details

Competition Funded PhD Project for students worldwide. Funding opportunities include Horizon Europe fee waivers that cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students, University Presidential Bursaries that cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants, and competition-based studentships that typically cover UK-level tuition fees plus a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis.

What's required

Applicants must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or an international equivalent. An English language qualification is required if applicable. The project is suitable for candidates interested in experimental fluid mechanics, turbulence, wind-tunnel methods, Particle Tracking Velocimetry, direct drag measurements, scientific programming, uncertainty analysis, and data-driven modelling.

How to apply

Apply online through the University of Southampton portal. Choose Research, 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, then select full time or part time and search for PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175). Add the supervisor name in section 2 of the application. Prepare a CV, two academic references, transcripts/certificates, and an English language qualification if applicable.

More information can be found here

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