EPSRC Centre For Doctoral Training in Future Fluid Dynamics

PGR-F-66

Key facts

Deadline: Thursday 7 January 2027
Funding start date: Friday 1 October 2027
Number of funding places: 12
Country eligibility: International (open to all nationalities, including the UK)
Source of funding: Centre for doctoral training
Key staff: Dr Oliver Harlen
Additional staff: Patricia Grant - CDT in Future Fluid Dynamics Centre Manager
Schools: School of Mathematics
Research groups/institutes: Institute of Fluid Dynamics

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Summary</h2>

This is an exciting opportunity to undertake a 4-year EPSRC funded integrated MSc and PhD in Future Fluid Dynamics. A key feature of this EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) is that your supervisory team come from a range of disciplines from across the University. You will therefore be expected to have broad interests and be willing to learn beyond your core expertise. There will also be the expectation that you will spend an extended period working with either an industrial, environmental or external academic partner as part of your project. You will be part of a cohort of research students with different academic backgrounds, all focusing on different aspects of fluid dynamics. During the selection process we will be looking for students who will be enthusiastic about learning with and from their peers, as well as the ability to undertake their own in-depth research. During your time in the CDT, you will develop substantial technical and transferable skills enabling you to build a successful career and become a leader in industry or academia. In addition to a wide range of computational, modelling and experimental techniques, you will have many opportunities to develop team working, communication and problem-solving skills.

As part of the University of Leeds, the CDT works to the University's Equality and Inclusion Strategy and Framework. Recruitment to the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) Future Fluid Dynamics Programme Open Route (project selected in Semester 2): <ul> <li class="Default">Application deadline: 7 January 2027</li> <li>Open to: UK and Overseas rated students</li> <li>Programme start date: 20 September 2027</li> </ul> Programme Structure Core programme: Formal training within the CDT is delivered through a taught MSc across 1st and 2nd years (150/30 credit split), with a continued programme of personal and professional development throughout the remainder of the PhD. The MSc component is designed to deliver the fundamental fluid dynamics and advanced methodology research training that underpin a multidisciplinary PhD, as well as meeting the broader skills needs identified by our industry partners. Year One 150 credits of the MSc will be undertaken in year one. Semester one: <ul> <li>30-credit Foundations of Fluids module which provides underpinning mathematical theory of fluid dynamics as well as training in both numerical and experimental methods for fluids problems. The experimental component will include experimental design and statistical methods in addition to practical training on specific techniques.</li> <li>15-credit Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis module</li> <li>15-credit Professional Development & Skills module (1) (to include core skills such as Python programming, Linux, LaTeX, introduction to ethics, research seminars, industry seminars, etc).</li> </ul> Semester two: <ul> <li>15-credit Data-Driven Fluid Dynamics module</li> <li>15-credit Professional Development & Skills module (2) (featuring further core skills: research software engineering, data analysis, presentation skills, scientific writing, time management, responsible innovation, sustainability, continued weekly research seminars, etc.).</li> <li>45-credit Team Research Project (in teams of 3 or 4) that will provide an intensive introduction into undertaking original research, as well as developing skills in teamwork and in project planning, execution and presentation. All projects will have an industry stakeholder who has proposed and helped to formulate the problem, and each project will commence with an intensive “sandpit” event in which the team, along with the cross-disciplinary team of academic supervisors and the industry stakeholder(s) scope the project.</li> <li>15-credit Research Evidence module, that will further prepare you to undertake your PhD by researching and writing a literature review on their chosen PhD topic.</li> </ul> Years Two - Four The remaining 30 credits of the MSc will be undertaken in year two. <ul> <li>15-credit Professional Development & Skills (3) module</li> <li>15-credit Specialist module (selected by you, to align with your PhD project, from a wide range of modules across the 12 participating departments). The 2nd year Research Skills module will still include timetabled sessions focusing on broadening skills (see diagram), however it will also include time for individual study tailored to your identified training needs for your PhD.</li> </ul> Although the MSc component will be completed by the end of year 2, you will continue your professional development throughout your PhD, including both individual (conferences, workshops, visits, placements, etc.) and cohort-based activities (e.g. CDT workshops focusing on broadening skills such as preparing for your thesis and viva, career planning in either industry or academia, etc.). Upon successful completion, graduates will be awarded an integrated MSc and PhD in Fluid Dynamics. Research Areas <ul> <li>Clean Energy</li> <li>Transport</li> <li>Climate & Weather</li> <li>Buildings & Cities</li> <li>Environmental Flows</li> <li>Advanced Manufacturing</li> <li>Health</li> <li>Astrophysics and Geophysics</li> </ul> About the CDT The scientific discipline of fluid dynamics is primarily concerned with the measurement, modelling and underlying physics and mathematics of how liquids and gases behave. Almost all natural and manufactured systems involve the flow of fluids, which are often complex. Consequently, an understanding of fluid dynamics is integral to addressing major societal challenges including industrial competitiveness, environmental resilience, the transition to net-zero and improvements to health and healthcare. Fluid dynamics is essential to the transition of the energy sector to a low-carbon future (for example, fluid dynamics simulations coupled with control algorithms can significantly increase wind farm efficiency). It is vital to our understanding and mitigation of climate change, including extreme weather events (for example in designing flood mitigation schemes). It is key to the digitisation of manufacturing through 3d printing/additive manufacturing and development of new greener processing technologies. In healthcare, computational fluid dynamics in combination with MRI scanning provides individualised modelling of the cardio-vascular system enabling implants such as stents to be designed and tested on computers. Fluid dynamics also shows how to design urban environments and ventilate buildings to prevent the build-up of pollutants and the transmission of pathogens. We hold strong, collaborative links with a broad range of Industry Partners who support our CDT. To learn more, please visit our <a href="https://fluid-dynamics.leeds.ac.uk/partners/">Industry Partners</a> website. Funding Fully funded studentship consists of: <ul> <li>Stipend – tax free to cover living expenses (at UKRI rates of £21,805 in session 2026-27, increases annually)</li> <li>Fees – tuition fees payable to the University (UK and International fees covered in full)</li> <li>Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) - generous budget allocated to each student to cover research activity e.g. experiments, consumables, conference attendance, placements, etc.</li> </ul> Applications are open to both UK and overseas fee‑rated applicants. However, the number of awards available to international applicants is limited. Additional places may be available for students with their own funding. Eligibility Criteria <ul> <li>Applications are open to either International or Home (UK) applicants.</li> </ul> If you are unsure whether you are eligible for UK fees/funding, please visit the <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ukcisa.org.uk%2F&data=05%7C02%7CJ.S.Hewer%40leeds.ac.uk%7C07632c93c06a442dca3d08ddfc172939%7Cbdeaeda8c81d45ce863e5232a535b7cb%7C0%7C0%7C638943898649349324%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nylGSov8jOc7hr6X%2FmfnfQPecbVUnGqgoSqVgPGy5K0%3D&reserved=0">UKCISA</a> website or our <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/undergraduate-fees/doc/fee-assessment">fee assessment page</a> regarding fee status for Non-UK nationals. Important: Please be aware that any expenses related to the relocation of international students to the UK (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights, etc) would be their responsibility and is not covered by this award Other Conditions <ul> <li>Candidates who have previously been awarded a PhD or are currently registered on a PhD are excluded from applying. Those who were previously studying for a PhD but did not complete may be considered. </li> <li>Awards must be taken up by 1st October 2027.</li> <li>Applicants must live within a reasonable distance of the University of Leeds whilst in receipt of this scholarship.</li> </ul> Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics (LIFD) CDT students will also benefit from membership of the Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics (LIFD), a cross-disciplinary research institute bringing together the expertise of over 300 researchers from 12 Schools in 4 Faculties at the University of Leeds. The institute provides a hub to facilitate world-leading research and education in fluid dynamics and to bring interdisciplinary perspectives to complex flow challenges. Further information about the <a href="https://fluids.leeds.ac.uk/">Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics</a>

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Faculty information</h2>

Please visit the <a href="https://fluid-dynamics.leeds.ac.uk/">EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Fluid Dynamics</a> to find out more about the programme. Our Centre for Doctoral Training is part of the <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/">Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences</a>. PGRs with disabilities or additional needs – If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the admissions and scholarships selection process, please email <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a> and the CDT Programme Team at <a href="mailto:fluid-dynamics@leeds.ac.uk">fluid-dynamics@leeds.ac.uk</a> to discuss your needs. This support should be sought as soon as possible. Selection Process <ul> <li>Shortlisting for interview: based upon formal application, CV, personal statement and transcripts of all degree study, candidates are invited for interview.</li> <li>Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will attend an in‑person interview day, or an online interview if they are an overseas applicant.</li> <li>Informal Offer: Successful candidates will receive an informal offer.</li> <li>Formal Offer: Subject to routine checks of an applicant’s qualifications and references, a formal offer will be made.</li> </ul> Interview Travel & Accommodation Expenses Travel and accommodation expenses, <a href="https://finance.leeds.ac.uk/key-information/policy-2/expenses-non-staff-expenses/">inline with our non-staff expense policy</a>, can be reimbursed following the completion of interviews.

<h2 class="heading">How to apply</h2>

Open Route to Research project chosen in semester 2 rather than at recruitment stage. Apply Online <ul> <li>Complete a <a href="https://studentservices.leeds.ac.uk/pls/banprod/bwskalog_uol.P_DispLoginNon" title="External link to www.leeds.ac.uk. Opens in a new browser window">formal application for Integrated PhD study</a></li> <li>Select ‘Research Postgraduate’ for type of form.</li> <li>Please select ‘EPSRC CDT Fluid Dynamics’ as the course.</li> <li>Enter start date: 1 October 2027</li> <li>Research Information section, enter the following in the ‘Research Area’ box. <ul style="list-style-type:circle"> <li>For open route application - Enter ‘CDT Future Fluid Dynamics</li> <li>Include a completed <a href="https://fluid-dynamics.leeds.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/43/2022/11/Fluids-CDT-Structured-Personal-Statement.docx">Future Fluid Dynamics CDT Personal Statement</a>.</li> <li>Include a CV.</li> <li>Include all transcripts and certificates for your degree(s).</li> </ul> </li> </ul> Applications will be reviewed and assessed after the closing date of Thursday 7 January 2027 for the Open Route. We welcome and strongly encourage any potential applicants to contact the CDT Future Fluid Dynamics Programme Team for an informal discussion, prior to applying, and recommend submitting your application early. As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Entry requirements</h2>

A degree equivalent to a UK first class honours, or a high upper second class, in an engineering, mathematics or science discipline, or Masters.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">English language requirements</h2>

The minimum English language entry requirement for the Centre for Doctoral Training in Fluid Dynamics is an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with not less than 5.5 in any skill area or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.

<h2 class="heading">Contact details</h2>

If you require any further information on the research area, please contact the CDT Team by emailing <a href="mailto:fluid-dynamics@leeds.ac.uk">fluid-dynamics@leeds.ac.uk</a> or call us on +44 (0)113 343 5449 For further information on how to apply, please contact PGR Admissions by emailing <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a>