Passive Flow Control for Turbulent Boundary Layer Drag Reduction

This project investigates a novel passive flow control strategy for suppressing turbulent boundary layers and reducing skin-friction drag. The project will involve designing and conducting advanced wind tunnel experiments, utilising state-of-the-art flow measurement techniques (e.g., PIV and hot-wire anemometry) to explore the potential and underlying mechanisms of turbulent drag reduction. 
This research aims to advance fundamental understanding of turbulence manipulation and has potential applications in aerospace, energy, and transport systems.

The successful candidate will join the School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering and will have access to the facilities and equipment required for the project, including the low-speed wind tunnel and advanced flow measurement equipment (Particle Image Velocimetry, Laser Doppler Anemometry, and hotwire anemometry).

The successful candidate will also have access to facilities for mechanical and electronics engineering at UQ Innovate, other workshops, and laboratories in the School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering.

The candidate will have the opportunity to work nationally and internationally with leading experts in Australia and around the world, including project collaborators in the USA.

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, solid mechanics, and non-linear dynamics would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of fluid mechanics, mechanical/aerospace engineering and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of turbulent flow physics and experimental fluid mechanics is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 15 December, 2025 15 December, 2025.

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 Azadeh Jafari (a.jafari@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: FLOW-JAFARI
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/passive-flow-control-turbulent-boundary-layer-drag-reduction

Submit an EOI