Fully funded PhD position in fluid mechanics

About the project

About the Project A PhD position is available in the Laboratory for Multiphase and Reactive Flows (LaMuReF) at Polytechnique Montréal. The project involve fundamental and applied research on carbon-neutral fuel combustion for gas turbines, advanced diagnostics in aerospace propulsion and fire resistance challenges associated with Li-Ion batteries in air transportation. The overarching theme behind these research topics is tackling technological challenges to enable a reduced reliance on fossil fuels for transportation and stationary power production. Specifically: Hydrogen is emerging as a sustainable alternative to hydrocarbons. However, stabilizing hydrogen flames in current gas turbine geometries without risking flashback is nearly impossible. Within a consortium composed of Canadian universities, national laboratories and an engine manufacturer, our team investigates a new combustion concept to enable 100%-H2 capable gas turbines. In aerospace propulsion, efficiency is largely dictated by reactive flows at high temperature and pressure, within combustion chambers where measurements are difficult to conduct. To obtain the experimental datasets needed to assist in the development and validation of advanced numerical simulation tools, novel diagnostic tools must be developed, using both probe-based and optical techniques. With the rise of lithium-ion batteries in energy storage and transportation, understanding their fire hazards under mechanical, thermal, or electrical abuse is crucial. Quantities of interest include temperature, heat flux and gaseous compositions in highly transient energetic events. Our team addresses these cutting-edge research needs following experimental and numerical simulation approaches. Applicants with a broad range of qualifications are, therefore, welcome. They will be matched to one of these research themes based on their background and interests. On the experimental side, the work of PhD students will involve: Designing experiments to measure the energy and power released by failing Li-ion batteries using advanced calorimetry; Implementing state-of-the-art diagnostics ( e.g. , high-speed imaging, spectroscopy, microscopy) to study exothermic reactions; Developing laser-based diagnostics (PIV, laser-induced incandescence and fluorescence, scattering) to quantify fuel-air mixing, measure species and pollutant concentrations, and assess combustion efficiency; Conducting hydrogen-air combustion experiments under practical turbine conditions at Polytechnique and within the facilities of our industrial and governmental partners. Numerical objectives for PhD students include: Unravel turbulence-chemistry interaction mechanisms with direct numerical simulation Perform large-eddy simulations of turbulent flames from novel gas turbine injectors Develop multi-physics CFD models to aid industrial design. Our offer : A motivating research project where you will connect with multiple partners in universities, industry, and national laboratories. A competitive stipend within the vibrant, welcoming city of Montréal where the cost of living is the lowest amongst the major Canadian cities. A multidisciplinary, diverse, and supportive team composed of ~20 students and 4 researchers supervised by professors Philippe Versailles, Etienne Robert and Bruno Savard, with experience spanning industry, national laboratories, and academia, in Canada and abroad. A brand-new laboratory equipped with recent, state-of-the-art instruments. Fully covered travels to national and international conferences to showcase the findings and outcomes of the research. The opportunity to take graduate courses at Polytechnique Montréal and other universities in the Montréal area. Graduate from one of Canada's top engineering schools and the leader in Québec for the size of its student body and the magnitude of its research activities. Qualifications : A Master of Science (MSc or equivalent) in mechanical, aerospace, chemical or physics engineering. Hands-on experience in combustion, highly reactive systems, or optical diagnostics is an asset for experimental positions Experience with programming is required for numerical positions Polytechnique Montréal is a world-class, French-language engineering school; however, research can be performed in French and English. Good communication skills in technical English (both oral and written) are an asset. The selection process will be based on academic merit, relevant experience, communication skills, publication record and research accomplishments. The applicants must be strongly motivated for graduate studies and able to work independently towards the objectives of the projects. Application : Individuals interested in joining the team must send: A one-page presentation letter detailing their expertise, relevant contributions to research, and motivation; A brief resume, including a list of technical publications (if applicable); Transcripts; If available, an example of technical writing in English where the applicant is the main author ( e.g. , paper, report, or thesis). Candidates from underrepresented groups in engineering are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications should be emailed to à LaMuReF.Positions@gmail.com Incomplete or non-conform applications will not be considered. Applications will be reviewed starting June 1, 2026, until the position is fulfilled, for a project start in January 2027.

Research areas