Effect of Magnetic Field Deflection on Magnetohydrodynamic Heat Shield

1. Magnetic field deflection in hypersonic MHD flow.

This project aims to experimentally reproduce and characterise the phenomenon of magnetic field deflection in hypersonic ground test experiments.

2. Bow shock structure in high magnetic Reynolds number MHD flow.

This project aims to isolate and experimentally measure the effect of magnetic field deflection on the shock stand-off and shock shape for hypersonic flow around a blunt body such as sphere or capsule.

3. Trajectory optimisation for atmospheric entry with MHD flow control.

This project aims to determine the optimum way to use MHD flow control during atmospheric entry.

4. Geometry and magnet optimisation for MHD-assisted spacecraft.

This project aims to determine how MHD drag can be maximised by optimising forebody contour and electromagnet configuration.

The student will be enrolled at the UQ School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering (SoMME), which houses the Centre for Hypersonics (CfH). The CfH has a large group of experienced researchers, and access to a strong pool of HDR students, both from its own graduates and from leading international universities. The CfH has a sustained record of publication in the leading journals in its field. The CfH operates a well-attended weekly seminar program where both group members and external collaborators and visitors, present their work.

The project will use the X2 and X3 expansion tube hypervelocity wind tunnels. UQ's laboratory has instrumentation and expertise for IR, VUV and UV emission spectroscopy, high-speed (MHz) video, and conventional shock tube instrumentation. The project also has access to supercomputing support through UQ's High-Performance Computing.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

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 fluid mechanics, electromagnetism, magnetohydrodynamics, optics, numerical analysis, and hypersonic experimental techniques would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of engineering and physics and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of fluid mechanics, electromagnetism, magnetohydrodynamics, optics, numerical analysis, and hypersonic experimental techniques is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 31 May, 2026 31 May, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Dr David Gildfind (d.gildfind@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:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC-GILDFIND
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/effect-magnetic-field-deflection-magnetohydrodynamic-heat-shield

Submit an EOI