PhD studentship: Applications of Acoustic Streaming – Developing a fundamental understanding of acoustic streaming and its use for flow manipulation and control.

Closing Date
10 May 2020

Supervisor:  Prof. Anthony Croxford (University of Bristol), A.J.Croxford@bristol.ac.uk

Sponsor:  Dyson Technology

To apply for the position, please use the following link.

Description:

This is a 4 year ICASE PhD project with the Ultrasonics and Non-destructive Testing (UNDT) and Fluid and Aerodynamics groups at the University of Bristol sponsored by Dyson Technology.  Dyson is well known for its flow control technology, both in confined (air flow through a vacuum cleaner) and open (air purification in a room) spaces.  To maintain a market leading position, Dyson must develop new technology through investment in research.  The purpose of this project is to develop a fundamental understanding of acoustic streaming for use in flow manipulation and control applications.

Acoustic streaming is a phenomenon whereby a flow field is generated in a fluid as a result of the nonlinear interaction of a high pressure acoustic wave with the fluid medium.  It is one of the two nonlinear phenomena that make up acoustophoresis (forces generated with sound), the other being the acoustic radiation force.  The UNDT group have conducted extensive research in the use of ultrasound for manipulating particles using the acoustic radiation force.  The project will build on this knowledge by incorporating acoustic streaming, specifically by developing an understanding of how acoustic driven streaming, solid surfaces and fluid flow interact with each other.

The student will be required to use the governing equations of acoustic streaming to conduct multiphysics modelling of a fully coupled acoustic/flow system.  They will also be required to validate their work through experiment.  The student will work closely with the aeroacoustic research group at Dyson, where they will be required to disseminate knowledge developed during the course of their research to be used for the development of future technology and products.  They will get the opportunity to spend time working at Dyson during the course of their PhD and to use Dyson’s stateof-the-art laboratory and prototyping facilities.

Candidate requirements:

Applicants should have a 1st class or good 2.1 bachelor’s degree or master’s in engineering or physical science. In our experience the best candidates can use their knowledge to solve technical problems, are interested in useful research, are well-organised and are good communicators. An enquiring and rigorous approach to research together with a strong intellect and disciplined work habits. Good team-working, observational and communication skills are essential

We welcome applications from all members of our community and are particularly encouraging those from diverse groups, such as members of the LGBT+ and BAME communities, to join us.

Funding: All fess paid for at Home/EU rate, enhanced stipend and a generous expense allowance

Applications will be considered on a fist come, first served basis with a view to start this project as soon as possible

 

Posted on 3rd March 2020 in Job Opportunities in Acoustics