Modelling of phases and interfacial behaviour to enhance sustainability in manufactured products (Ref: MA/DS-SF1/2026)

About the Project

Over recent years the modelling and understanding of complex phases, and their interfacial interactions, has developed at pace. Phases can be a solution of components, a mixture including colloidal particles, or different states such as in a frozen or vapour state. Through our recent modelling, we are able to understand in much greater detail the formation and stability of such phases, and now the emphasis is to use this for practical benefits in manufacturing and use of products. Examples can include manufacturing of paints and their subsequent use and disposal, printed electronics, manufacturing and storage of consumable products like food and drink, and many others. This project will initially make developments on the fundamental fluid mechanics and thermodynamics of the modelling but rapidly move to exploiting the models to find positive gains in sustainability, cost reduction, storage lifetimes and other related aspects.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
David Sibley d.n.sibley@lboro.ac.uk
https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/maths/staff/david-sibley/

Entry requirements:
A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in mathematics, physics or a related discipline.

English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: No

Closing date of advert: 1st January 2027

Start date: July 2026, October 2026, January 2027, April 2027

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RA (UK £5,006, International £22,360)

How to apply:
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Mathematical Sciences. Please quote the advertised reference number: MA/DS-SF1/2026 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Please note that this criteria is used for both funded and self-funded projects.
Please note, applications for this project are considered on an ongoing basis once submitted and the project may be withdrawn prior to the application deadline, if a suitable candidate is chosen for the project.

Project search terms:
applied mathematics, fluid mechanics, theoretical physics, thermodynamics

Email Address Sci:
sci-pgr@lboro.ac.uk