PhD position: Understanding and predicting nonlinear flows in confined disordered media
PhD opportunity in nonlinear flows in confined disordered media
at the University of Barcelona, in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC) and the University Politecnica de Madrid.
This project focuses on understanding and predicting how nonlinearity affects flow and transport in confined porous media. The research emphasizes three key nonlinear mechanisms: non-Newtonian rheology, large driving rates that generate dynamic capillary pressure and hysteresis in multiphase flow, and complex phase behavior of multicomponent mixtures described by realistic equations of state.
The project combines theory, laboratory experiments, detailed numerical simulations, mesoscale pore network modeling, and upscaling to continuum-scale theories. The successful candidate will receive training in interfacial instabilities, capillary phenomena, scaling theories, and hydrodynamic flow in disordered media, together with practical experience in experimental fluid mechanics, image and data acquisition, and software such as Matlab and LabView for analysis and instrument control. Training will also cover computational simulations and modeling, plus professional skills including time management, oral communication, and scientific writing.
The position is hosted in the Advanced Physics PhD program at the University of Barcelona, with regular participation in UBICS activities and weekly seminars at IDAEA-CSIC. Short research stays at the Laboratoire de Physique of ENS-Lyon (France) and Nottingham Trent University are also included to broaden the training environment.
The post is a full-time 4-year PhD contract with a Standard FPI predoctoral salary, estimated at around €25,500 per year. The application deadline is 31 August 2026. Candidates should hold a Master degree or equivalent in physics or geosciences, or have a relevant civil/mechanical engineering background. Good English is required, and experience with experiments, transport processes, complex fluids, porous media, and scientific programming is preferred.
To apply, email Prof. Jordi Ortin and Dr. Ran Holtzman with a CV, motivation letter, transcripts, two references, and any MSc thesis/publications, using the subject line “NonLinFlow_PhD”.
