Project summary
- Program
- PhD
- Location
- St Lucia
- Research area
- Chemical sciences, Mathematical sciences, Physical sciences
Project description
Molecular dynamics simulations are commonly used to study the flow of various fluids, including lubricants, polymers (e.g. for 3D printing), ionic liquids, and solvents (e.g. for advanced manufacturing processes).
However, when simulating complex fluids where molecular aggregation, chemical reactions, or correlated motion may occur, or relaxation times may be slow, there are various methodological difficulties to overcome.
This project aims to develop an improved understanding of complex fluids under flow by exploring new computational methods for molecular dynamics simulations.
Research environment
This project will be conducted within the AIBN at UQ, where you will work with leading experts in nonequilibrium statistical mechanics and molecular dynamics simulation.
The UQ Research Computing Centre provides access to a large-scale high-performance computing facility, and further access to national computing facilities will also be available.
The project strongly aligns with research strengths at UQ in Mathematical Physics (0105), Condensed Matter Physics (0204), and Theoretical and Computational Chemistry (0307); UQ has a 2018 ERA ranking above or well above world average (rating 4 or 5 out of 5) in all of these disciplines.
Scholarship
This is an Fellowship support scheme scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.
The scholarship includes:
- living stipend of $39,220 per annum tax free (2026 rate), indexed annually
- your tuition fees covered
Learn more about the Fellowship support scheme scholarship.
Supervisor
Principal supervisor
Associate supervisor
Preferred educational background
Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.
We take into account your:
- previous academic record
- publication record
- honours and awards
- employment history.
A working knowledge of molecular dynamics simulations, statistical mechanics, quantum chemistry calculations, and/or machine learning would be of benefit to someone working on this project.
You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of physics, computational chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science and the potential for scholastic success.
A background or knowledge of molecular dynamics simulation is highly desirable.
How to apply
This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 1, 2028. You can start in an earlier research quarter.
You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by the closing date for the research quarter (RQ) you want to start in:
Before you apply
- Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
- Prepare your documentation.
- If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Dr Stephen Sanderson (stephen.sanderson@uq.edu.au).
When you apply
To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI
In your EOI, complete the 'Scholarship/Sponsorship' section with the following details:
- Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
- Project: 'Fellowship project scholarship'
- Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: FLOW-SANDERSON
- Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/computational-approaches-molecular-scale-flow-modelling