Research Opportunity Position DAAL_1: Physics and Modeling of Complex Unsteady Aerodynamics Applications

Background: A wide range of aircraft operates in dynamic environments characterized by unsteady flow. This unsteadiness arises from both temporal variations in the air environment and maneuvers employed by agile platforms navigating dense landscapes. These platforms include helicopters, VTOL, UAVs, and UAM, which differ from conventional aircraft in terms of smaller scaled airframes, lower flight speeds, and increased maneuverability. These air vehicles face significant and unpredictable flow disturbances that greatly influence their performance and stability. Gaining a deep understanding of the underlying physics governing unsteady aerodynamics and formulating reduced order models are essential objectives. This research opportunity involves utilizing numerical methods to simulate complex physics in various unsteady aerodynamics applications. The numerical studies will be complemented by experimental studies for validation and verification purposes. Additionally, this position aims to develop reduced order models and design tools that accurately account for the underlying physics and its impact on the aircraft air-loads.

Expected Research Focus:

 - Conducting high-fidelity simulations of unsteady aerodynamics applications.
 - Investigating unsteady flow and airloads.
 - Assisting with experimental efforts for validation.
 - Formulating surrogate models for aircraft loads under dynamic conditions

 

General Qualifications

I am seeking ambitious applicants with strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate effectively with research teams, present findings at conferences, and publish research outcomes. I also value candidates with the ability to work independently, be proactive, and show dedication to advancing the research goals of the project.

 

Specific Qualifications

Applicants are expected to have the following:

- A Ph.D. in a relevant field: Aerospace engineering; Mechanical engineering,  Applied Physics, or a related discipline.

- A strong background in numerical methods, computational fluid dynamics, and applied aerodynamics. 

- Familiarity with solving complex flow problems using numerical simulations. Publications in peer-reviewed journals or conferences in these areas are often beneficial.

- Knowledge of aerodynamics principles and their application to practical engineering problems. Experience in simulating various aerodynamic phenomena such as flow over airfoils, wings, and complex geometries.

- Strong understanding of mathematical modeling, numerical discretization methods, and computational techniques for solving partial differential equations (PDEs).

- Experience in developing and implementing numerical algorithms for CFD simulations.

- Proficiency in using CFD software tools such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or similar.

- Proficiency in using software for mesh/grid generation software such as Pointwise. Proficiency in using software tools for data analysis, visualization, and post-processing of simulation results.

- Programming Skills: Proficiency in programming languages like Python, C++, or Fortran for developing and optimizing numerical algorithms. Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) environments is often beneficial.

- Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills to present research findings to colleagues, contribute to research proposals, and potentially mentor students

 

To apply for one of the DAAL positions, please submit the following documents:

    Maximum 3-page resume (C.V.)
    Transcript and coursework in English, certified by a recognized university.
    Degrees certificates or expected graduation date.
    Cover letter stating the position and explaining your interest in the research position.
    One-page research objectives and your interest in applied aerodynamics.
    Letters of recommendation from academic advisors, collaborators, or professionals who can attest to your research capabilities and potential for contributions to the field.

Please compile all documents into a single PDF file and name the document using your last name, position, and
year (e.g., LASTNAME_DAAL2_2023.pdf). Kindly note that only qualified applicants will receive an email with further instructions regarding the application process. Please do NOT send multiple emails.

Please compile all documents into a single PDF file and name the document using your last name, position, and year (e.g., LASTNAME_DAAL1_2023.pdf). Kindly note that only qualified applicants will receive an email with further instructions regarding the application process. Please do NOT send multiple emails. Send your application to:

Dr. Camli Badrya, cbadrya@ucdavis.edu

Lab website: https://daal.ucdavis.edu/