Scalable multiphysics topology optimisation for complex engineering design

This PhD project will investigate the development and application of advanced multiphysics topology optimisation methods for complex engineering design problems. Unlike conventional shape optimisation, which modifies a predefined geometry, topology optimisation provides greater freedom by allowing the distribution and connectivity of material within a design domain to evolve. Extending this concept to multiphysics problems creates opportunities to discover configurations in which fluid, structural, thermal, and other physical requirements are considered simultaneously.

The project will build on an existing sophisticated and highly scalable topology-optimisation framework combining high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics, adjoint-based sensitivity analysis, and large-scale numerical optimisation. This established code base will provide a strong foundation for developing tightly coupled multiphysics optimisation capabilities.

Potential research topics include:

• coupled fluid--structure, aerostructural, conjugate heat-transfer, or thermo-fluid topology optimisation
• consistent adjoint sensitivity analysis across multiple disciplines
• treatment of multiphysics objectives and constraints
• numerical robustness and scalability
• filtering and regularisation strategies
• mesh-resolution requirements
• large-scale three-dimensional optimisation

The project may also consider validation and manufacturability of complex optimised geometries.

The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent.

The project is particularly suited to candidates with a strong background in:

• computational fluid dynamics
• computational mechanics
• numerical modelling

preferably with experience using OpenFOAM or related software.

Desirable skills:

• knowledge of numerical optimisation and topology optimisation
• experience with multiphysics modelling, high-performance computing, adjoint methods

Fees and funding

We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.

Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.

Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.

Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)

Contact us

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

For questions about applying, please doctoralcollege-admissions@soton.ac.uk.

Project leader

For an initial conversation, a.elham@soton.ac.uk