About the Project
Many fluid mechanical problems involve the motion of thin/slender particles (such as elastic sheets or fibres) in low-Reynolds-number flows. Such particles offer little resistance to bending, implying that they are easy to deform by the traction that the fluid exerts on them. The resulting fluid-structure interaction has a strong effect on the particles' dynamics and often leads to interesting and counter-intuitive behaviour.
The aim of the project is to develop novel and efficient numerical methods for the solution of such fluid-structure interaction problems, based on the coupled finite-element-based solution of the Stokes equations and the equations of large-displacement plate or beam theory. A particular challenge is to account for the presence of singularities that typically develop at the edges/ends of such structures.
Computational work (using oomph-lib, the group's C++-based object-oriented multi-physics finite element library, available as open source software at http://www.oomph-lib.org) will be augmented by analytical studies, and will be closely coordinated with ongoing experimental work in the Manchester Centre of Nonlinear Dynamics (http://www.mcnd.manchester.ac.uk/index.php).
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply: To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Natural Sciences Scholarships. If you don't already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing your motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or other numerate disciplines OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master's degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or other numerate disciplines. Good knowledge of continuum mechanics, finite element methods and object oriented programming is desirable.
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
FSE_SoNS
Funding Notes
Funding covers tuition fees, an annual stipend at the UKRI minimum rate (currently £21,805 per year), and a research training support grant of up to £2,500 per year for the full 3.5-year programme.