PhD Position: Two-Phase LES of Marine Boundary Layers
A fully funded 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.
Your Role
This PhD project combines physical analysis with turbulence model development. Your primary role will be 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), with CFD experience as an asset
- Proficiency in academic English
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 NSYSU
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. Asim Önder (asim.onder@mail.nsysu.edu.tw), Marine Aero- and Hydrodynamics Laboratory, National Sun Yat-sen University.