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

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:

1. Hydraulic flume experiments to quantify bubble–flow interactions and identify key scaling parameters
2. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model development and validation using laboratory data
3. 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 (OpenFOAM, 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