Simulation of turbulent free-surface flows over real bathymetry with SPH

The goal of this project is to explore the capabilities of the Lagrangian-based method, Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) to reproduce the complex flow physics in rough open-channel flows. Real flow conditions occur over irregular bathymetries and ocean waves, both of which need to be accurately modelled to determine depth variation of key variables.

This project will expand upon the capabilities of the SPH solver, DualSPHysics, to represent complex bed conditions with appropriate boundary conditions to then capture the contribution of turbulence and secondary-currents to the overall flow resistance. The candidate will develop new algorithms into DualSPHysics and also perform Large-Eddy Simulations with the in-house code Hydro3D following the work published in Nikora et al 2019 Journal of Fluid Mechanics and Zampiron et al. 2024 Environmental Fluid Mechanics.

The supervision team will be led by Dr Pablo Ouro together with Prof. Benedict D. Rogers, both from the Civil Engineering and Management Department, School of Engineering, The University of Manchester.

Eligibility

The candidate must demonstrate experience in coding using C++ with knowledge in Python, CUDA or Julia being advantageous. Hands-on experience with UNIX, e.g. Linux, SPH software, e.g. DualSPHysics, or other CFD codes is positive. A degree at MSc/MEng level in the fields of engineering, mathematics, physics, atmospheric science or similar is mandatory, with a minimum score of 2:1 or equivalent.

Funding

At Manchester we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers applying for competition and self-funded projects.

For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for. Faculty funding has just been announced (President’s Doctoral Scholarship or Dean’s Doctoral scholarship). Please contact the supervisor about funding opportunities.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor Dr Pablo Ouro (pablo.ouro@manchester.ac.uk) or Prof. Benedict D. Rogers (benedict.rogers@manchester.ac.uk) for this project before you apply, sending your CV and MSc thesis if of relevance. There is no funding secured for this project but strong applicants will be supported to pursue internal funding avenues such as the President’s Doctoral Scholarship (PDS), Dean’s Doctoral Scholarship (DD), or Excellent Woman in Engineering (EWE).

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).