The ultimate aim of CAMPI is to transform our understanding of turbulent mixing processes in multi-phase fluid systems that are driven by density differences. The classic instability occurs when two fluids are juxtaposed in a test-cell, the more dense one placed above the lighter. Under acceleration due to gravity, the dense, negatively buoyant fluid falls, and its place is exchanged with the lighter fluid. Measuring and quantifying that exchange as it takes place is critical, because it is known that molecular-scale details have a very strong effect on the picture we observe. The problem gets yet more challenging when we alter the strength of gravity. To do this practically, we accelerate our test-cell from rest downwards faster than earth's gravity so that an initially stable light-over-heavy configuration becomes unstable and the exchange and mixing process begins.

This project will design and build a system for moving the test cell and measuring the flow within it, then analyse these measurements to contribute to our scientific understanding of mixing flows subject to variable acceleration. The system will comprise a novel design of vertical linear motor of 4kN motive force, and make sensitive optical measurements of the flow using off-board laser illumination in conjunction with high-speed cameras both on- and off-board.

Ensuring that vibrations are well-controlled requires careful mechanical and electrical design and the project will develop our in-house motion-tracking technology to stabilise images acquired in this extreme environment. Numerical models of the flow will be created with MOBILE, an in-house software suite for highly energetic mixing flows, and these will be used to predict, compare with, and analyse the experimental results from the vertical laboratory.

The Hele-Shaw laboratory is a 420m sq. recently refurbished experimental facility supported by cutting-edge in-house diagnostic capability. This project will develop part of the new vertical laboratory, in which free-fall velocities of 37mph can be obtained. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop novel experimental diagnostics under the joint supervision of Dr. Andrew Lawrie and Dr. Robin Williams. The project involves elements of design, modelling and simulation weighted to reflect the candidate's interests, and this makes it an ideal launch pad for a successful career in academic or industrial research.

Competitive applicants will hold a good Honours degree in a discipline with strong mathematical content, for example electrical engineering. Background knowledge of control is essential for this project and prior understanding of fluid mechanics, optics or data assimilation would be considered a highly desirable asset; applicants with equivalent industrial experience are encouraged.

Subject to satisfactory progress, tuition fees and a tax-free stipend starting at £16,863 per annum for 3.5 years will be provided.

Please make an online application for this project at http://www.bris.ac.uk/pg-howtoapply.

Contacts: Dr Andrew Lawrie (Andrew.Lawrie@bristol.ac.uk)  (0117) 331 5915