PhD Studentship: Flow and Noise Control using Non-equilibrium Turbulent Boundary Layers

Supervisory Team: Dr. Dea Wangsawijaya

Project description:

Join our world-leading experimental fluid mechanics research group with this PhD studentship studying flow and noise control using a wide range of experimental methods. You will become a part of a group of highly motivated researchers in the experimental fluid mechanics research laboratory whose efforts are directed towards using state-of-the-art diagnostics to understand the physics of turbulent flows and noise generation. We are part of the National Wind Tunnel Facility of the UK and have several wind tunnels and anechoic chambers on site for studying experimental fluid mechanics.

The aim of this research project is to examine the mechanism of airfoil self-noise produced by the interaction between an airfoil blade and the structures of turbulent boundary layers developing over the airfoil, and how these structures can be manipulated for flow and noise control. You will be involved in the design and manufacture of various mechanisms for airfoil trailing edge noise treatments for parametric testing in both large-scale Boundary Layer Wind Tunnel (BLWT) and anechoic chamber facilities. You will be trained to use a wide range of experimental methods in these facilities, including: flow-noise diagnostics (particle image velocimetry and hot-wire anemometry, simultaneous with microphone measurements) and direct wall shear-stress measurements (drag balance, oil-film interferometry) to obtain a complete view of the flow structures, the resulting drag, and noise generation-suppression mechanism of a lifting surface. You will use this extensive, unique set of experimental data not only to formulate and validate new high-fidelity models for noise suppression, but also to provide a novel flow and noise control strategy for various engineering applications.

This project is partly supported by the Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship. There will also be opportunities to network with other universities and industries through the UK Fluids Network and the Airbus Noise Technology Centre (ANTC).

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Dea Wangsawijaya, Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics Research Group. Email: D.D.Wangsawijaya@soton.ac.uk, Web: www.southampton.ac.uk/people/5y2pmb/doctor-dea-daniella-wangsawijaya

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31^st August 2025. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.  For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How to apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Dea Wangsawijaya.

Applications should include:

• Personal Statement
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

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