Three PhD student positions in Computational Fluid Dynamics related to Large eddy simulation (LES) of compressible flows

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The work will be completed at the Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Energy Conversion research group. The research work will be completed as part of a multidisciplinary team focusing on Large-Eddy Simulation (LES) of turbulent flows with applications in heat transfer, combustion, multiphase flow, and energy storage.

The following three topics area available for PhD students:

Topic 1: Large-eddy simulation of reactive flows: combustion of carbon- free fuel blends using OpenFOAM

Topic 2: Simulation of chemistry for CO2 -neutral fuels. Development of new mechanisms.

Topic 3: Simulation of melting and solidification (phase change) processes of sustainable fuels using OpenFOAM.

Information on topic 1) The project involves studies using LES in compressible, reactive flows related to mixing of carbon-free fuels with air as well as the combustion of such multi-fuel mixtures. The simulations will be mostly performed using the OpenFOAM open source software utilizing a radically fast finite rate chemistry accelerator developed at the host institution. Some previous experience in physics/mathematics related numerical simulations and high-performance computing will be considered particularly useful.

Information on topic 2) The project involves research within chemistry simulations using tools such as Cantera, Chemkin, and pyMARS. Python and Matlab skills will be considered beneficial as well as prior experience on simulation methods. The main goal is to develop new chemical mechanisms for CO2 -neutral, middle distillate fuels.

Information on topic 3) In the project transient melting and solidification (crystallization) processes are modeled for various sustainable fuels using OpenFOAM. Python and Matlab skills will be considered beneficial as well as prior experience on simulation methods. The aim is to be able to analyze conditions that lead to the initiation of fuel crystallization. A process which could be detrimental for plugging of filters, for example.

Requirements

The applicant should have a good CFD track-record with additional background knowledge in some of the following topics:

- Numerical methods in physics and mathematics

- Matlab, Python, and other programming languages

- Experience using OpenFOAM

The applicant for the position of a doctoral Candidate must have a Master's degree and must fulfill the requirements for doctoral students at the Aalto University School of Engineering.

Employment

The expected duration of doctoral studies is four years, but a contract is at first made for one year, and the extension depends on candidate's advancement in her/his studies and research. The salary is according to the salary system of Aalto University.

How to apply

Please, submit the applications online through the link provided below no later than November 20, 2022 including

Further information

For additional information on funding and contents of work, please contact Associate professor D.Sc.(Tech.) Ossi Kaario. In questions regarding the recruitment process, contact the HR-coordinator Anna-Maija Harju. E-mails: [email protected].

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