Both methods have shown encouraging results individually, predominantly on simplified geometries. However, their combined effect, and the underlying physics governing their interaction, remains largely unexplored. This PhD will investigate how carefully designed surface textures influence near-wall turbulence and how pulsed air injection can be used to create and sustain a lower-resistance layer along the hull. The central aim is to understand how these two mechanisms can work together to stabilise turbulent structures, improve bubble retention, and ultimately achieve greater drag reduction.
The project builds on recent work within the group and will combine computational and experimental approaches. Initially, high-fidelity direct numerical simulations (DNS) will be used to study flow behaviour at the texture scale and identify promising air-pulsation strategies. These findings will then be extended using OpenFOAM simulations under more realistic flow and geometric conditions. Selected concepts will be tested experimentally using advanced turbulence measurement techniques, including Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV).
The successful candidate will develop strong skills in computational fluid dynamics (CFD), turbulence physics, and experimental flow diagnostics, with opportunities to apply state-of-the-art data-analysis and optimisation tools. The work is expected to deliver new insight into the physics of hybrid drag-reduction techniques and help guide the design of more efficient hull surfaces for future vessels. This is an opportunity to contribute to research with clear environmental relevance while working in a collaborative and supportive academic environment.
Applicant Eligibility
Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a master’s degree or equivalent from a reputable university in a relevant subject OR a First in a relevant bachelor’s degree.
Important Application Process
Candidates wishing to apply should email nomescdt@ljmu.ac.uk, to request the N0MES CDT expression of interest form to be returned with:
- degree certificates and transcripts
- an up-to-date CV
- two academic references together with their contact information
- a supporting statement [one page of A4] detailing what inspired you to apply for this project, how your skill set matches this specific project, up to 3 examples showing your commitment to science, an example of science that excites you and any further information that you think will support your application
Once your application will be assessed successful candidates will be formally invited to apply.
Please use the following as the email subject title: PhD Studentship at the N0MES CDT. Good luck!
Funding Notes
Studentships pay a maintenance grant for 4 years, starting at the UKRI minimum of £20,780 per annum for 2025-2026 and cover full home UK tuition fees (plus EU , EAA settled *see note below). The studentship also comes with access to additional funding in the form of a research training support grant which is available to fund conference attendance, fieldwork, internships etc.
Qualifications - will have, a master’s degree OR a 1st in a relevant bachelor’s degree.
References
LJMU Co-Ordinator, Dr Tasos Georgoulas A.Georgoulas@ljmu.ac.uk
Applications nomescdt@ljmu.av.uk
