MSc Positions Available in High-Fidelity Computational Modeling and Wake 
Dynamics of Wind Turbines

The Project & Role:

Applications are invited for 1-2 MSc positions for the project titled 
“Computational Modeling of Nature-Inspired Designs of Vertical-Axis Wind 
Turbines (VAWTs)” in Nature-Inspired Engineering Research Lab in the Department 
of Mechanical Engineering at Lakehead University (Thunder Bay, ON, Canada). The 
primary aims of this research are:

- To develop computational models by introducing bio-inspired design 
modifications for VAWTs
- To perform three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulations using our in-house 
code and OpenFOAM on workstations and supercomputing clusters
- To examine the consequent wake dynamics and connect it with aerodynamic 
performance and power generation capacity of the wind turbines 

These positions are open to candidates who possess bachelor degrees closely 
related to Mechanical Engineering. Applicants with expertise, experience, and 
interest in computational fluid dynamics and wind energy are highly encouraged 
to apply. The successful candidate(s) will be required to work independently and 
must communicate well in English. These positions are available to all students, 
including Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, and international 
students. In order to promote and support equity, diversity, and inclusion in 
the relevant research areas, female students are especially encouraged to apply 
for these positions. It is expected that the successful candidate(s) will take 
up the position in Spring/Summer or Fall 2023.

Training and Professional Development Opportunity:

The selected candidate will have the opportunity to receive training in the 
following areas: 
- Physics-based (nature-inspired) high-fidelity computational modeling using our 
in-house code (FORTRAN) and widely used industrial engineering softwares, 
including ANSYS and OpenFOAM 
- Advanced theoretical modelling of wind energy systems 
- Vortex dynamics and its effect on quantifying performance of rotating machines
- High-performance computing
- Advanced visualization techniques and data analyses

The successful candidate may have opportunities to participate in national and 
international conferences, and internships and workshops. They may also have 
opportunities to travel to partner universities (i.e., University of Alberta and 
University of Calgary) and work with Dr. Khalid's collaborators there.

Application Procedure:

Candidates are asked to submit a complete application package, which includes: 
- A detailed curriculum vitae
- Copies of transcripts
- Scores for English language tests 

Interested candidates should send their completed application packages to me by 
email at mkhalid7@lakeheadu.ca with the subject line “MSc Position – VAWTs - 
2023”. The position(s) will remain open until suitable candidates are selected. 
Please note that the candidates selected for the next rounds of hiring will be 
contacted.