PhD Positions in Ecohydraulics, CFD Modeling, and Experimental Fluid Mechanics

PhD Positions in Ecohydraulics, CFD Modeling, and Experimental Fluid Mechanics via AGU University of Missouri Columbia, MO, USA 🇺🇸 PhD Positions in Ecohydraulics, CFD Modeling, and Experimental Fluid Mechanics University of Missouri - Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Up to Two Fully Funded PhD Positions Available The Ecohydraulics Laboratory (Dr. Brandon Sansom) and the Environmental Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (Dr. Binbin Wang) at the University of Missouri invite applications for up to two fully funded PhD positions as part of a newly funded research project focused on bubble deterrent systems for invasive carp management in the Upper Mississippi River (UMR). This is a three-year interdisciplinary project integrating laboratory experiments and high-resolution computational modeling to advance the design, scaling, and field implementation of innovative deterrent technologies. Project Overview Invasive carp pose a significant ecological and economic threat across the Mississippi River Basin. Bubble deterrent systems (also known as bubble curtains or oblique bubble screens) are a promising non-physical method to limit upstream passage, but their design, scalability, and performance under real-world hydraulic conditions remain poorly understood. This project addresses these challenges through three integrated components: Hydraulic flume experiments to quantify bubble-flow interactions and identify key scaling parameters Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model development and validation using laboratory data Field-scale modeling applications at high-priority sites (e.g., lock and dam structures and tributary confluences in the UMR) The outcomes will include new experimental datasets, validated CFD tools, and site-specific design guidance for resource managers. Available Positions PhD Position 1: Experimental Hydraulics and Ecohydraulics This student will lead the laboratory-based experimental component of the project.

Responsibilities:

Design and conduct hydraulic flume experiments on bubble deterrent systems Quantify flow fields, turbulence, and bubble plume structure Use advanced instrumentation such as: Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), Acoustic Doppler Velocimetry (ADV), High-speed imaging systems Measure and analyze acoustic signals generated by bubble plumes Develop scaling relationships for translating lab results to field applications

Preferred Qualifications:

Background in civil/environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, fluid mechanics, or related field Experience with laboratory experiments or hydraulic instrumentation (preferred but not required) Strong interest in ecohydraulics and experimental methods PhD Position 2: Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Modeling This student will focus on the development and application of advanced CFD models for two-phase (air-water) flow systems.

Responsibilities:

Develop 3D CFD models of bubble plume systems using tools such as OpenFOAM and/or FLOW-3D Implement multiphase flow formulations Evaluate and calibrate turbulence closure models for bubbly flows Integrate acoustic modeling within CFD frameworks Apply validated models to field-scale systems (e.g., lock and dam structures, tributaries)

Preferred Qualifications:

Background in civil/environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, fluid mechanics, or related field Experience with CFD, numerical modeling, or fluid mechanics Programming skills (e.g., Python, C++, MATLAB) Interest in environmental fluid dynamics and large river systems Collaborative Environment Both students will work closely with: USGS (Columbia Environmental Research Center, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center) U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) State and federal resource management agencies The project includes opportunities for: Collaboration with leading scientists in ecohydraulics and invasive species management Access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities and high-performance computing resources Participation in field-relevant, management-driven research Facilities and Resources Students will have access to: Advanced hydraulic flumes and ecohydraulics laboratory infrastructure High-resolution

PIV, ADV, ADCP

systems, and high-speed imaging Dedicated CFD workstations and modeling software (Open

FOAM, FLOW-3D

) Potential access to USGS large-scale eco-flume facilities and supercomputing resources Expected Outcomes and Training Students will: Contribute to high-impact peer-reviewed publications Develop expertise in experimental and/or computational fluid dynamics Gain experience working at the interface of engineering and ecological applications Engage directly with real-world water resources and invasive species management challenges Funding and Start Date Full funding includes stipend, tuition, and benefits Preferred start date: Fall 2026 (flexible for Spring 2027 depending on candidate availability) Application Instructions Interested applicants should submit: CV/resume Statement of research interests (indicate preference for CFD or experimental track) Academic transcripts Contact information for 2-3 references Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled, with interviews expecting to begin by May 25 th , 2026. For questions, please contact: Dr. Brandon Sansom (sansomb@missouri.edu) and Dr. Binbin Wang (wangbinb@missouri.edu) Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering University of Missouri Apply at https://tally.so/r/b58901 Expired

POSITION TYPE

Scholarship/Assistantship

ORGANIZATION TYPE

University/Academia/Research/Think tank

EXPERIENCE-LEVEL 0-2

Years

DEGREE REQUIRED

Advanced Degree (Master's or JD) Back to all water jobs