PhD position in computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
PhD position in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to investigate instability and transition mechanisms in a separated shear layer under different flow and acoustic conditions
Qualification Type: PhD
Location: Warsaw University of Technology, Poland
Funding for: PL/EU and International Students
Funding amount: Monthly stipend of 6500 PLN (€1500)
Hours: Full Time
Project is funded by the National Science Centre (www.ncn.gov.pl)
Project Outline:
This project aims to understand the physics behind the coupling of flow and acoustics disturbances in the separated shear layer and wake by means of Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS). Furthermore, new correlations to characterise the impact of turbulent disturbances on the shear-layer breakdown and the acoustic feedback loop mechanism on laminar-to-turbulent transition in high-subsonic and transonic flows will be developed.
Further project information:
The PhD student will primarily investigate low-Reynolds-number flows subjected to turbulent and/or acoustic disturbances. He/she will be responsible for conducting DNS simulations in HIPSTAR code and implementing the acoustic excitation procedures. The student will also conduct stability analyses and develop correlations that describe the breakdown of the separated shear layer under turbulent and acoustic forcing, as well as the influence of the acoustic feedback loop on mean-flow transition in compressible flows. He/she will be obliged to consult the obtained results with supervisors, publish the results in scientific journals, present and discuss his/her results at conferences, and finally prepare the PhD thesis.
Eligibility criteria
Candidate for the funded PhD studentship should demonstrate outstanding qualities and be motivated to complete the PhD within 4 years.
Key requirements:
- Master's degree in relevant engineering, applied mathematics, or physics
- Solid knowledge of, and experience in, the mathematical and numerical simulation of turbulent flows
- Strong academic profile in engineering, maths, or applied mathematics
- Fundamental knowledge and understanding of fluid mechanics, numerical methods, turbulence and acoustics
- Strong programming skills (Python, C/C++, Fortran). Experience with Fortran is considered an advantage
- Fluency in English is required
We offer the successful candidate exciting opportunities to develop his/her skills and advance their career, such as:
- Three-month training program focusing on the use and further development of the highquality HiPSTAR code at the University of Melbourne, Australia
- Participation in highly regarded international scientific conferences
If you are interested, please send your CV and academic transcript to Prof. Sławomir Kubacki (Slawomir.Kubacki@pw.edu.pl).
Required documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter
- Master's diploma and transcript of records
- Research interests statement (1–2 pages)
- DOI or copies of scientific publications (if available)
- English language certificate (if available)
- Contact details of two academic referees
Selection Procedure:
The recruitment process will include:
- Evaluation of academic achievements according to regulations by NCN
- Assessment of research experience
- Two interviews with the recruitment committee: one for the project (held online or in person) and a second for the Doctoral School at Warsaw University of Technology (held online or in person).
Closing date: The first call for applications will close on 10 August 2026 at 24:00.