PhD Position: Boundary Layer Transition Induced by Periodic Surface Roughness

This PhD position, part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network FairCFD, focuses on investigating boundary-layer transition induced by periodically distributed surface roughness. The candidate will develop novel analytical and reduced-order numerical methods, such as Bloch theory and asymptotic homogenization, to replace computationally expensive Direct Numerical Simulations. The research aims to explore broader parametric spaces relevant to aeronautical and industrial applications while significantly reducing computational costs. Beyond individual research, the candidate will participate in a network-wide initiative to co-design metrics for numerical frugality and sustainable scientific computing.

• Develop and implement analytical and reduced-order numerical methods for flow dynamics over periodic roughness.
• Perform systematic parametric studies on roughness geometry, spacing, and Reynolds numbers.
• Develop algorithms to track resolvent modes efficiently to reduce computational costs.
• Extend research methodologies to three-dimensional roughness configurations using high-performance computing.
• Collaborate with the FairCFD network to define metrics for numerical frugality and energy efficiency in simulation.
• Participate in network-wide training events, hackathons, and scientific symposia.