项目介绍

2023年12月24日

This PhD position is supervised by Prof. Johan Meyers (Mechanical Engineering), and co-supervised by Prof. Dirk Nuyens (Computer Science). The position is based in the Turbulent Flow Simulation and Optimization (TFSO) research in the department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Leuven (KU Leuven). The research is part of the project “Computational methods for infinite-dimensional Bayesian inversion of physics-based models in engineering applications” led by Prof. Giovanni Samaey, Prof. Geert Lombaert, Prof. Dirk Nuyens and Prof. Johan Meyers.

Project

BACKGROUND
Characterizing turbulent flow remains challenging in many practical applications, as a result of its chaotic dynamics and the high dimensionality of the system. Measurements of turbulent flows (e.g. PIV in wind tunnels, LIDAR measurements in the atmospheric boundary layer, hot wire measurements, sonic anemometers) are typically sparse in space and time, and only capture a small fraction of the full degrees of freedom in the system. Data-assimilation using time resolved turbulence simulations such as LES and DNS can significantly enhance such measurements, leading to a three-dimensional reconstruction of the flow field. However, many computational challenges arise, related to the large-scale nature of the inverse problem that arises, and the development of efficient algorithms and proper regularization.

PHD PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Research aims at the development of data-assimilation of turbulent flow measurements in DNS and LES, with possible applications in the atmospheric boundary layer and wind energy. The research is on method development, specifically focusing on maximum a posteriori estimation and Bayesian inference, using 4DVar formalism. The work builds on earlier work in the group (Bauweraerts & Meyers, J. Fluid Mech, 2021), but develops a weak variational formalism, as well as better background regularization that leads to improved physical solutions. Next to this, new approaches are investigate to represent uncertainty introduced by unmodelled physics (subgrid model errors, boundary-condition errors, among others).

Profiel

Candidates have a master degree in one of the following or related fields: fluid mechanics, aerospace or mathematical engineering, numerical mathematics, or computational physics. They should have a good background or interest in fluid mechanics, optimization, simulation, and programming (Fortran, C/C++, Python, …). Proficiency in English is a requirement. The position adheres to the European policy of balanced ethnicity, age and gender. Persons of all origins and gender are encouraged to apply.

Aanbod

The PhD position lasts for the duration of four years, and is carried out at the University of Leuven. The candidate also takes up a limited amount (approx. 10% of the time) of teaching activities. The remuneration is generous and is in line with the standard KU Leuven rates. It consists of a net monthly salary of about 2400 Euro (in case of dependent children or spouse, the amount can be somewhat higher). Following Belgian law, the salary is automatically adjusted for inflation based on the smoothed health index.

Interesse

To apply, use the KU Leuven online application platform (applications by email are not considered). Applications should ideally include:
a) an academic CV and a PDF of your diplomas and transcript of course work and grades
b) a statement of research interests and career goals, indicating why you are interested in this position
c) a sample of technical writing in English, e.g. a paper with you as main author, or your bachelor or master thesis
d) at least one recommendation letter
d) a list of at least two additional references (different from recommendation letters): names, phone numbers, and email addresses
e) some proof of proficiency in English (e.g. language test results from TOEFL, IELTS, CAE, or CPE)

Please send your application as soon as possible.
Decision: as soon as a suitable candidate applies.
Starting Date: immediate start possible, preferably before October 1st 2024. Later start can be negotiated.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

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