PhD in Fluid Mechanics

3.5-year D.Phil. studentship/nProject: Boundary layer transition induced by real roughness/nSupervisors: Prof John Coull/nThe thermal efficiency of gas turbines and jet engines are limited by the maximum temperature of components in the High Pressure Turbine immediately downstream of the combustion chambers. In particular, the blade tip of the high pressure turbine is subject to high heat loads, due to flow passing through clearance gaps, and is particularly difficult to cool./nThis project builds on a long relationship between Oxford and Rolls-Royce plc. We will develop an existing facility (the High Speed linear Cascade) to examine new means of cooling blade tips, and to explore novel geometries that provide both aerodynamic and thermal benefits. Our studies will be grounded in the complex trade-offs and restrictions that face engineers, for example to include stress and manufacturing considerations, and to study how deterioration over the life of an engine will affect the optimal designs./nThe project will have a focus on experimental measurements, but will also include a large computational element. You would work closely with our industrial partner to ensure the results of your work have maximum impact on the real world./nLocation: Oxford/nStart date: October 2026