PhD Studentship(s) in Aeronautics: The Role of Turbulence Intermittency in Cloud Physics Imperial College London in United Kingdom

[Full coverage of tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend of £22,780 for Home, EU and International students.]

This PhD studentship at Imperial College London focuses on the role of turbulence intermittency in cloud physics, specifically within warm cumulus clouds. The project addresses how turbulence, which is highly intermittent due to large Reynolds numbers, influences the rapid formation of precipitation. Two main research directions are offered: studying intermittent entrainment processes at the cloud edge, or investigating turbulence–droplet interactions. The research can be experimental, using advanced laser diagnostics and particle tracking/image velocimetry in a large wind tunnel, or computational, employing high-fidelity numerical simulations (CFD).

Students will join a large team working on the ERC-funded TITCHY project, gaining expertise in turbulent flow physics and presenting their findings at international conferences. Professional development opportunities are available through workshops in research communication, computing, data science, and career progression via the Early Career Researcher Institute.

Funding covers full tuition fees and provides a tax-free stipend of £22,780 per year for Home, EU, and International students. The studentship lasts 3.5 years and is open to candidates with a First class honours MEng/MSci or higher degree (or international equivalent) in aeronautical or mechanical engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or related STEM subjects. Prior experience with turbulence is desirable but not essential.

Imperial College London is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, holding awards and partnerships that promote respect and support for all students. The application deadline is 30 April 2026, with a start date in October 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Oliver Buxton ([email protected]) regarding the project, or Lisa Kelly ([email protected]) for application process queries.

To apply, use the Imperial College London postgraduate doctoral application portal, select 'Aeronautics Research (PhD)', reference AE0084, and list Prof. Oliver Buxton as supervisor. More information about fee status and the institution is available online.