About the Project Prof. Xuerui Mao's research group at Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) is seeking a highly motivated and
enthusiastic PhD student in the field of fluid mechanics, asymptotic analysis, and computational methods. The research entails developing a theoretical and numerical framework, based on triple-deck asymptotic theory, proposed by Dr. Exposito (PI) to analyse hypersonic flow over forward- and backward-facing steps. Building on numerical algorithms previously developed for hypersonic flow over cooled axisymmetric surfaces, the student will extend these methods to canonical step and cavity geometries, validating the asymptotic predictions against conventional Navier–Stokes simulations using open-source CFD software. The project offers scope to explore three-dimensional step configurations and the open cavity problem — relevant to supersonic combustion chamber flows — allowing the student to pursue applications of particular interest to them. This position involves both theoretical and practical research and is especially suited for candidates seeking future employment (in industry or academia) in China. The project is funded by a prestigious grant from the National Science Foundation of China. The selected candidate will receive a net monthly salary of 3500 RMB. The University offers free one-bedroom accommodation within the campus and an additional stipend of 1000 RMB per month for off-campus accommodation. The position has a duration of three years. Introduction to the research group The research group comprises a multi-disciplinary team with on-going research activities across fundamental and applied fluid mechanics and data science, including data assimilation, modal analysis, icing/de-icing, fluid-solid interaction, and computational simulation and modelling of various flows. In addition, it maintains extensive collaborations with overseas universities, e.g., Imperial College London, University of Nottingham, Oxford University, KTH, Johns Hopkins University. There are regular mutual exchanges of researchers for each of the topics above. The group has been funded by research councils and major industries in aerospace engineering and energy in the UK, EU and China. More information of the group can be found at https://mao-lab.com . BIT is located in the centre of Beijing, and despite its compact size, it belongs to the first groups of national higher education projects "211" and "985", among a few other esteemed universities. For international candidates, the university and the group will offer comprehensive support for accommodation and integration into campus life, and it is totally comfortable to speak English on campus. If you are interested, please send your CV and two references to dieexbr17@gmail.com
