Summary
The University of East Anglia is offering a PhD studentship focused on the theoretical and computational study of nonlinear waves on inviscid liquid jets subject to surface tension, vorticity, and swirl. The project aims to develop new computational methods to characterize these novel wave solutions, particularly solitary waves, and analyze their stability.
PhD Studentship: Nonlinear waves on liquid cylinders at the University of East Anglia, UK
Table of Key Details
| Feature | Detail |
| Institution | University of East Anglia – EMP |
| Qualification Type | PhD |
| Mode of Study | Full-Time or Part-Time |
| Funding Status | Self-funded Students |
| Primary Supervisor | Prof. Mark Blyth |
| Start Date | 1 February 2027 |
| Reference | BLYTHM_U27EMPSFPF |
Subject Area
- Mathematics & Statistics
- Mathematics
- Engineering & Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
Location
Norwich (South East England)
Eligibility
- Academic Requirements: The minimum entry requirement is a 2:1 degree in Mathematics or Physics.
- Funding: This project is offered on a self-funded basis. It is open to applicants who are self-funded or currently in the process of securing external funding. (Note: If you are part of the UEA alumni community, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount.)
Scholarship Description
While inviscid liquid jets without gravity are known to be unstable under long-wave perturbations (the classical Rayleigh–Plateau instability), recent theoretical work has demonstrated that adding vorticity and swirl can lead to the existence of nonlinear travelling-wave solutions. However, their specific properties are largely unexplored.
In this project, researchers will:
- Develop new computational methods to compute and characterize novel wave solutions.
- Emphasize the study of solitary waves and the analysis of their stability.
- Extend the research to related configurations, such as ferrofluid jets under vorticity and swirl.
This work will advance the understanding of nonlinear wave phenomena in fluid mechanics and contribute significantly to the broader theory of interfacial flows. Please note that a bench fee is payable in addition to the tuition fee to cover the costs of required specialist equipment and laboratory facilities.
How to Apply
Applicants can apply online through the job posting portal using the provided Apply link on the jobs.ac.uk webpage. It is also recommended to contact the primary supervisor, Prof. Mark Blyth, directly for further details regarding the project and applicable bench fees.
Last Date
The application closes on 30th November 2026.
