Find out more about our Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems PhD.

P-F343

PhD

4 years full-time;
7 years part-time

3 October 2022

Physics

University of Warwick

HetSys is an EPSRC-supported Centre for Doctoral Training. It recruits enthusiastic students from across the physical sciences who enjoy using their mathematical skills and thinking flexibly to solve complex problems.

By developing these skills, HetSys will train you to challenge current state-of-the-art in computational modelling of heterogeneous, ‘real world’ systems across a range of research themes such as nanoscale devices, new catalysts, superalloys, smart fluids, laser-plasma interactions etc.

The HetSys training programme addresses three key training needs:

• Span disciplinary barriers. The most challenging real-world heterogeneous systems are intrinsically multidisciplinary, requiring integration of a diverse range of modelling methods.
• Incorporate uncertainty in modelling. Training in uncertainty quantification will enable students not only to perform simulations, but also to quantitatively assess their reliability.
• Promote robust Research Software Engineering (RSE). Training in sustainable software development will enhance software usability and extend its lifetime.

CDT training will run throughout the four-year PhD programme with all aspects designed to meet the three key training needs above, and to develop transferable skills. You will be recruited directly onto a project and will have a supervisor from the start of the course, as well as a second supervisor in a related area and a cohort mentor for academic and pastoral advice. In projects with industry links there will often also be an industry co-supervisor.

Teaching and learning

HetSys' training programme is designed to enable you to become a high-quality computational scientist who is comfortable working in interdisciplinary environments, has excellent communication skills, and is well prepared for a wide range of future careers in areas where there is demonstrable need.

During the first 18 months of the programme you will study four core modules (Multiscale Modelling Methods and Applications I and II, Research Computing/Software Carpentry and Predictive Modelling and Uncertainty Quantification). You will also take at least two optional modules, participate in a Group Software Development Project supported by academics and RSEs, and carry out an independent research project in the area of the PhD project assessed through a written report and viva 12 months into the programme.

The individual project also leads to a peer-to-peer activity in the second year (also part of the Group Software Development Project). These activities will contribute to the formal award of a postgraduate diploma (120 credits), which must be successfully completed 18 months into the programme. You will also have the opportunity to participate in the formal transferable skills course run by the University, which leads to a PG Certificate in Transferable Skills after three years.

In Years Two to Four the majority of your time will be spent conducting PhD research. There will be ample opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and knowledge exchange through cohort-wide activities.

Examples of areas of current research within the remit of the HetSys CDT include the following themes:

• Novel electronic devices
• Catalysis across scales
• High-performance alloys
• Direct-drive laser fusion
• Heterogeneous modelling for future medicines
• Smart nanofluidic interfaces
• Composite materials with enhanced functionality
• Heterogeneity of underground systems
• Mathematical challenges
• Simulation optimisation

Please see our research themes for further details and our projects page for specific projects currently being advertised.

HetSys offers a range of research projects. A research proposal is not required. Instead, you should nominate one to three projects that you are interested in, in order of preference.

Learn more about our groups and projects.

You can also see our general University guidance about finding a supervisor.

2:i honours degree at BSc or an integrated Master’s degree (e.g. MPhys, MChem, MSci, MEng etc.) in a physical sciences, mathematics or engineering discipline.

• Band A
• Overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 and component scores.

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

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