PhD project in Numerical simulation of the aerodynamic effects of ice build up with Airbus
Masters @University of Southampton posted 2 days agoJob Description
About the project
The primary goal of this project is to model the impact of ice build up using computational fluid dynamics.
When an aircraft encounters supercooled water droplets, the droplets may partially or fully freeze as ice. Ice can potentially build up on engine cowlings, wings and tails. This ice may also not break off easily with aerodynamic forces, necessitating the use of anti-icing systems. The main aerodynamic effect of icing is a significant change in the effective leading-edge shape resulting in a deterioration in the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft. This leading-edge shape evolves with time as the ice forms. It is important for airframe manufacturers to be able to predict the effect on the aerodynamics of this build.
The outcome of the project will be a determination if Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) can correctly predict the lift polar with and without ice and to determine best practices for these applications. The final step will involve interfacing the aerodynamic predictions with existing Airbus icing prediction tools.
This project also involves a placement at Airbus Filton’s site. It will provide an excellent opportunity to work closely and collaborate with one of the largest aerospace companies in the world, Airbus, and to explore relevant problems in the aerospace industry for future aircraft with a reduced environmental impact.
This project provides a unique opportunity to work on a relevant engineering problem at the Airbus Noise Technology Centre (ANTC), part of our Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
Entry requirements
You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent.
You must have good knowledge of aerodynamics and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
Fees and funding
This project is funded by an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award (IDLA).
This project is sponsored by Airbus.
How to apply
You need to:
- choose programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- select Full time or Part time
- choose the relevant PhD in Engineering
- add name of the supervisor in section 2
Applications should include:
- personal statement
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 academic references
- degree transcripts to date
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
If you have a general question, email:Â feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk
Project leader
For an initial conversation, email Dr David Angland (d.angland@soton.ac.uk).
