About the project
This PhD will develop scalable multiphysics topology optimisation methods for complex engineering design. Building on an existing CFD- and adjoint-based topology optimisation framework, the research will address coupled physical disciplines, numerical robustness, constraints, sensitivity analysis, and large-scale optimisation, with applications including aerostructural, thermo-fluid, and fluid–structure design problems.
This PhD project will investigate the development and application of advanced multiphysics topology optimisation methods for complex engineering design problems. Unlike conventional shape optimisation, which modifies a predefined geometry, topology optimisation provides greater freedom by allowing the distribution and connectivity of material within a design domain to evolve. Extending this concept to multiphysics problems creates opportunities to discover configurations in which fluid, structural, thermal, and other physical requirements are considered simultaneously.
The project will build on an existing sophisticated and highly scalable topology-optimisation framework combining high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics, adjoint-based sensitivity analysis, and large-scale numerical optimisation. This established code base will provide a strong foundation for developing tightly coupled multiphysics optimisation capabilities.
Potential research topics include:
- coupled fluid--structure, aerostructural, conjugate heat-transfer, or thermo-fluid topology optimisation
- consistent adjoint sensitivity analysis across multiple disciplines
- treatment of multiphysics objectives and constraints
- numerical robustness and scalability
- filtering and regularisation strategies
- mesh-resolution requirements
- large-scale three-dimensional optimisation
The project may also consider validation and manufacturability of complex optimised geometries.
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
