PhD: Study of the multiphase and multi-physics mass transfer,between a cavity and an external shear flow

Description

This thesis will study fluid mechanics and multi-physics couplings related to the cleaning of unwanted viscous liquid substances on solid surfaces with complex geometries—such as in the case of a surface cavity. The aim of this thesis is to model the physico-chemical processes that govern the extraction and cleaning of an undesirable liquid trapped in a surface cavity (see figure below), under the effect of a shearing liquid flow which may contain a cleaning agent. We will seek to understand the interactions between fluid dynamics, mass transport, and chemical reactions to optimize decontamination strategies. The approach will be multi-physics, combining aspects of fluid mechanics, interfacial phenomena, and chemical reactions. We will use complementary experimental and numerical methods to develop and validate multi-physics models to understand the impact of hydrodynamic, geometric, and chemical parameters on the cleaning process. The flow within a cavity is a canonical problem in fluid mechanics, which has been much less studied in the multiphase and multi-physics cases. We expect to uncover particularly rich phenomenology in mass transfer, including interfacial instabilities, changes in flow topology, and couplings with chemistry. The LMFA is an internationally recognized research laboratory in fluid mechanics, and part of a dynamic research and industrial environment in the Metropole of Lyon. The candidate will benefit from strong support within this lab, which hosts a large international community of PhD students each year. It is located in the heart of the city of Lyon, which offers a dynamic and stimulating environment for research and student life.

Profile

Candidates must hold a master-level degree, or an equivalent degree, and have an excellent academic record in fluid mechanics, mechanics, physics or any related discipline. They must show strong motivation for research in fundamental science with an interdisciplinary nature, some laboratory experience, and skills in coding and developing numerical simulations. Fluent English is required (level C1). Fluent French is not mandatory but recommended (level B1).

Eligibility

Only Chinese citizens are allowed to apply for this doctoral thesis funding offer, due to the nature of the funding source: the China Scholarship Council. Candidates must not be working (outside China) at the time of application, but applicants registered in an awarding-degree institution outside China are eligible.

Application

In the first instance, please send a CV, cover letter, and academic transcripts from the past three years to Julien LANDEL, by 15th February 2026. If you meet the profile criteria and the eligibility requirements, you will be called for an informal interview. The full application to the University and the CSC will then be explained in detail.