About the project
This PhD project will explore gust–wing interactions in vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs). Integrating computational fluid dynamics, data-driven modelling, and experiments on a custom-built VAWT rig, you will examine how gusts influence blade aerodynamics in curvilinear flows and develop predictive tools to mitigate their adverse effects.
Are you interested in decoding complex fluid-structure interactions occurring in gusty environments? This project offers a unique opportunity to develop expertise in CFD, data-driven modelling, and experimental aerodynamics while addressing a critical challenge in renewable energy: gust-blade interactions in curvilinear flows.
Focusing on vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs)—where blades follow curved trajectories with coupled rotational and pitching kinematics—you will investigate how discrete gusts interact with key flow phenomena such as dynamic stall, throughflow, and wake interactions. These unsteady effects degrade performance and accelerate fatigue in VAWTs, yet predictive tools to inform control strategies remain underdeveloped. Using CFD simulations, you will capture nonlinear load fluctuations and vortex dynamics, forming the basis of a physics-informed, data-driven framework to predict gust interactions.
To validate and refine this model, you will conduct experiments on an existing custom-built modular VAWT rig and gust generator at the University of Southampton. Unlike existing linearised models constrained by potential flow assumptions, this approach will enhance accuracy by incorporating the physics of separated flows under highly unsteady kinematics.
Through this project,
- you will enhance your skills in different methodologies and will get the opportunity to present at international conferences
- you will have access to world-class flow facilities, unique test rigs, and a network of tight-knit group of PhDs and postdocs in the department
- you will enhance your skills and knowledge in motion control, unsteady vortex dominated flows, building rigorous experimental set-ups, coding (image/ signal processing), scientific planning, writing, and presentation (international exposure) amongst others
- you will have access to training in general manufacturing skills in our extensive workshops.
- you will have the opportunity to work with the tight-knit PhDs and postdocs of the Experimental Fluids Group at Southampton who will be a part of your network.
The university also offers language courses.
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
