PhD project on Multi-scale modelling of polydisperse cloud cavitation

Project overview

Cavitation, the formation of vapor pockets in a liquid in certain flow conditions, is a phenomenon that for a long time has caused negative impact and design limitations in various aspects of hydraulic machinery, negatively impacting performance. Recently, increasing attention has been put on using cavitation to increase efficiency and precision for medical treatments or water purification. The phenomenon is complex, involving several physical processes on multiple scales, making it difficult to predict its dynamics and limiting our possibilities to make advancements in these societal challenges.

This research will develop new simulation models to improved simulations accuracy and facilitate development of e.g. more efficient ship propulsion systems, turbines and pumps as well as wastewater treatments; all important tasks towards a more sustainable society.

One of the main challenges is due to their wide range of scales pres: microscopic vapor bubbles play a critical role even in large-scale systems like ship propellers. A modern and natural way to address this complexity is through a multi-scale modelling approach. This technique resolves large-scale structures on a computational grid while modeling smaller bubbles at a sub-grid scale. This PhD project builds on a multi-scale framework developed in a previous Chalmers PhD thesis, advancing both macroscopic and sub-grid modeling methods and their coupling. The work will focus on developing state-of-the-art multiphase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) while delving into the physics of cavitation and bubble dynamics in turbulent flows.

About the division and department

The position is based in the Division of Marine Technology, at the Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences. The division is internationally recognized for its pioneering research supporting the development and enhancement of marine technology, such as ships, subsea systems, and renewable energy solutions. The division’s work aids industry and society worldwide by delivering knowledge and solutions that:


• Reduce shipping emissions.
• Extend equipment lifespan and minimize maintenance needs in harsh oceanic environments.
• Ensure safe marine operations.

The project will involve close collaboration with the Division of Fluid Dynamics, particularly its research team specializing in bubble dynamics and multi-scale modeling in multiphase applications.

The research group you will join works closely with the Swedish shipping industry, research institutes, and manufacturers. Since 2002, the division has hosted the Kongsberg University Technology Centre in Computational Hydrodynamics (previously within the Rolls-Royce group), facilitating both strategic research and industrial method development. This project will directly contribute to this longstanding collaboration, emphasizing industrial impact and practical utilization of research outcomes.

In addition to research, the division is actively involved in education at the Master's and doctoral levels. The team contributes to the Master’s program in Mobility Engineering and the Nordic Master in Maritime Engineering. The group comprises senior researchers, post-docs, and PhD students who foster an open and collaborative environment.

Major responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, your primary responsibilities include:


• Conducting your own doctoral studies in collaboration with colleagues at Chalmers and external academic and industry partners.
• Developing scientific concepts and communicating research results, both orally and in writing.
• Completing advanced-level courses to support your research and professional development.

You will also engage in teaching or departmental duties, constituting 10–20% of your working hours. Teaching duties typically involve roles as teaching assistant or tutoring project work in BSc and MSc level courses at the department.

Read more about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, you must have:


• A Master of Science degree (at least 240 higher education credits) in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Engineering Mathematics, or a related field, with a focus on fluid mechanics and CFD.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Additionally, you should demonstrate:


• Initiative and the ability to work independently.
• Strong collaborative skills to interact with colleagues across disciplines and industry partners.
• The ability to disseminate research findings to academic, industrial, and societal audiences.

Contract terms

The PhD studentship contract starts with a one-year employment. The position is limited to a maximum of 4.5-5 years, depending on the amount of teaching and departmental duties conducted during the employment.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted in English as PDF files (maximum 40 MB per file; note that the system does not support ZIP files). Ensure that your application is complete, as incomplete applications and email submissions will not be considered.

Required documents


• CV (Name the document: CV, Family Name, Reference Number):

• CV.
• Details of previous employments, leadership roles, or positions of trust.
• Contact information for two references.

• Personal Letter (Name the document: Personal Letter, Family Name, Reference Number):

• 1–3 pages introducing yourself.
• A description of your previous experience relevant to the position, including education, thesis work, and other research activities.
• Your future goals and research focus.

• Other documents:

• Copies of your Bachelor’s and/or Master’s thesis.
• Certified copies of transcripts, grades, and certificates, such as TOEFL results.


Application deadline: January 6, 2025

For questions, please contact:
Professor Rickard Bensow
rickard.bensow@chalmers.se | +46 31 772 1479