Energy transfer in rotating stably stratified turbulence
Eligibility: UK/International (including EU) graduates with the required entry requirements
Duration: Full-Time – between three and three and a half years fixed term
Application deadline: 27 May 2025
Interview date: Will be confirmed to shortlisted candidates
Start date: September 2025
For further details contact: Abhishek Kumar
Introduction
We are inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position to investigate the complex behaviours of energy transfer in rotating, stably stratified turbulent flows—a critical phenomenon in atmospheric physics and environmental science.
Project details
One characteristic of turbulent flow is that energy transfers from one length scale to another in a unique way referred to as the cascade of energy. This project focuses on understanding how energy transfers and cascades at synoptic scales (~1000 km, e.g., mid-latitude cyclones) and mesoscales (5–100s km, e.g., sea breezes) in the presence of rotation and stable stratification. To understand the origins of these energy transfers, we will perform direct numerical simulations using the global spectral method with extremely high precision to capture even the smallest scale present in the problem.
Research Impact: The outcomes of this project will contribute to improving weather prediction models and climate pattern analysis, advancing our understanding of energy transfer and cascade processes in atmospheric turbulent flows. Results will be shared through publications in leading journals and presentations at major fluid dynamics conferences.
Funding
Tuition fees and bursary
Benefits
The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills. All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral Researcher College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.
Entry requirements
- A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
PLUS
- The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years.
- A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS academic overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).
Additional requirements
It is expected that the successful candidate holds a BSc or MSc degree in mathematics, physics or engineering. The candidate should be motivated to perform numerical simulation and have knowledge of programming languages, such as C++, Python, etc.
How to apply
Please send a full CV and transcript of grades before completing the Coventry application process to Dr Abhishek Kumar.
All applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, plus a 500 word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.
Please contact Dr Abhishek Kumar for informal enquiries.
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