PhD Position: Two-Phase LES of Marine Boundary Layers
A PhD position is available at the Department of Marine Environment and Engineering, National Sun Yat-sen University (Kaohsiung, Taiwan). The research will examine the coupled dynamics of wind, surface waves, and ocean currents that set the structure of the marine boundary layers. In energetic conditions, wave breaking, spray formation, and bubble entrainment introduce additional multiphase pathways for momentum and energy exchange across the air–sea interface, yet these effects remain poorly represented in existing models. The project will develop turbulence closures that capture both the baseline wind–wave–current coupling and its multiphase feedbacks, advancing Large-Eddy Simulation (LES) of marine boundary layers and enabling improved assessment of offshore wind resources.
Research Focus
The project combines physical analysis with turbulence model development. The main objectives are to:
- Analyze two-phase Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) datasets to identify the mechanisms governing air–sea exchange in marine boundary layers
- Design and implement new subgrid-scale (SGS) closures for LES, using both physics-based formulations and machine learning approaches
- Investigate wind–wave–current coupling at scales relevant for offshore wind applications
Candidate Profile
- Master’s degree in Mechanical, Civil, or Ocean Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field
- Interest in fluid mechanics and turbulence, with willingness to learn modeling approaches
- Motivation to apply advanced numerical methods to ocean and wind energy problems
- Programming experience (C++ and/or Python); CFD experience is an asset
- Proficiency in academic English (no Chinese language requirement)
Offer
- Fully funded PhD position with tuition waiver and monthly stipend
- Access to Taiwan’s national supercomputing resources
- Support in applying for competitive external fellowships
About the Lab and University
The Marine Aero- and Hydrodynamics Laboratory specializes in high-fidelity simulation of air–sea interaction. National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) is a leading research university in Taiwan. Located in Kaohsiung, the seaside campus lies where the mountains meet the ocean, offering a unique living and research environment at the center of Taiwan’s offshore wind expansion.
Application
Send your CV, transcripts, and a short motivation letter to Dr. Asım Önder (asim.onder@mail.nsysu.edu.tw). The selected candidate will be supported through the formal application to NSYSU’s graduate program.
Application
Starting date: August 2026 (Fall semester). Send your CV, transcripts, and a short motivation letter to Dr. Asım Önder (asim.onder@mail.nsysu.edu.tw). The selected candidate will be supported through the formal application to NSYSU’s graduate program. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.