PhD Studentship: Aerodynamic Flow Control for UAVs

The project:

The global commercial unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)/drone market is experiencing significant growth and is projected to reach USD $57 billion by 2030. Recent technological developments in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and microelectronics have enabled drones to work even more efficiently, enabling them to address emerging demands in several sectors including filmmaking, air quality monitoring, forest fire monitoring, river monitoring, search and rescue, agiculture, internet provision in remote locations, recreational racing and photography, etc.

This project is funded by the National University of Singapore and the successful applicant is expected to work closely with academics and scientists in both institutions. The PhD research studentship will focus on understanding and improving the aerodynamic performance of UAVs by performing experiments to investigate: (1) natural and hybrid laminar flows over airfoils, (2) flow over two-element airfoils, (3) flow control mechanisms such as co-flow jets incorporated into wings, and (4) active flow separation control techniques using wing-mounted sensors and blowing devices. Lift, drag, surface pressure and flow field will be measured using force/moment balances, in situ pressure taps and particle-image velocimetry. The outcome of the research is expected to benefit the aerospace industry and the wider academic community.

The student will have the opportunity to work in various wind tunnel facilities in Bristol, which are very well-equipped with state-of-the-art features and measurement suites that have been supporting a wide range of research activities ranging from applied aeroacoustics to urban air pollution research. The student will integrate into the Fluid and Aerodynamics Research Group and work alongside several other PhD students and postdoctoral research associates working on similar topics. The student will have the opportunity to interact with industrial and academic partners in UK and Singapore, disseminate key results in leading journals and national/international conferences.

How to apply:

Prior to submitting an online application, you will need to contact the project supervisor to discuss.

Online applications are made at www.bris.ac.uk/pg-howtoapply. Please select Aerospace Engineering PhD on the Programme Choice page. You will be prompted to enter details of the studentship in the Funding and Research Details sections of the form.

Candidate requirements: 

Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum of a pass at master’s degree level (or international equivalent) in a science, mathematics or engineering discipline. Applicants without a master's qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree.

If English is not your first language, you need to meet this profile level: Profile E
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.

Funding:

Minimum tax-free stipend at the current UKRI rate is £18,622.

Contacts:

Dr Desmond Lim desmond.lim@bristol.ac.uk

For questions about eligibility and the application process please contact Engineering Postgraduate Research Admissions admissions-engpgr@bristol.ac.uk

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