Mathematics, nonlinear waves and geometric fluid dynamics

Research interests of this group include:

• Geometric mechanics
• Geophysical fluid dynamics
• Hydrodynamic stability
• Water waves
• Wave fronts and nonlinear patterns.

The group is comprised of both outstanding, world-leading professors in meteorology and nonlinear waves and young, ambitious, internationally recognised academics. These academics play leading roles in national initiatives such as the National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO), which provides evidence and predictions to government and businesses the Earth's future climate, and industries such as those involved in wave energy harvesting.

This group is also the principal organiser of the Applied Geometric Mechanics Network in the UK and plays a significant role in Surrey’s Quantum Foundations Centre.

Potential PhD research

Potential areas of PhD research include the following:

• Multi-scale fluid flow analysis
• Geometric mechanics
• Nonlinear patterns in Ferrofluids
• Nonlinear water waves and wave energy harvesting
• Data assimilation for large geophysical systems
• Flow stability problems.

Further topics could be available by contacting individual group members.

What the School can offer

As a PhD student in the School of Mathematics and Physics you will work as part of a vibrant and supportive community of early career researchers who exchange ideas and collaborate with each other and the mathematical community. You will be extensively trained for a career as a professional mathematician, which will set you on the right track for a future in academia, industry or government.

During your PhD you will also receive a comprehensive training in transferable skills such as project management, communication and time management through our Faculty Graduate School. In addition, you will broaden your mathematical horizons by taking courses via national networks such as the national MAGIC consortia as well as our own in-house MSc course.

Applicants should have:

• A minimum of a first-class honours degree in mathematics, physical sciences or engineering.

Preferably applicants will hold:

• A MMath, MPhys or MSc degree, though exceptional BSc students will be considered.