Postgraduate research opportunities High-dimensional computations with applications to uncertainty quantification for multiphysics engineering systems

The Strathclyde Centre for Doctoral Training (SCDT) in "Data-driven uncertainty-aware multiphysics simulations" (StrathDRUMS) is a new, multi-disciplinary centre of the University of Strathclyde, which will carry out cutting-edge research in data-driven modelling and uncertainty quantification for multiphysics engineering systems. StrathDRUMS will train the next generation of specialists to apply non-deterministic model updating, digital twin techniques, and advanced uncertainty treatments to real-world challenges in civil and aerospace engineering. In our research we aim to study complex systems such as aeroplanes, spacecrafts, buildings and bridges using rigorous mathematical concepts, formulations and computational methods. We are pleased to announce an available funded 3.5 year PhD studentship project within the centre on “High-dimensional computations with applications to uncertainty quantification for multiphysics engineering systems”, supervised by Dr Yoshihito Kazashi in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and co-supervised by Dr Sifeng Bi (Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering), Dr Marco de Angelis (Civil & Environmental Engineering) and Dr Michele Ruggeri (Mathematics and Statistics). In engineering applications, various types of uncertainty are modelled with a large number of parameters. However, working with such models yields high-dimensional problems, such as high-dimensional integration to compute expectations and high-dimensional approximation to construct surrogate models, that are computationally very challenging. The successful candidate will develop and analyse numerical techniques in computational uncertainty quantification. They will focus specifically on cutting-edge numerical analysis of high-dimensional integrals (that outperform Monte Carlo methods), function approximation, probability density function estimation as well as optimal solvers of partial differential equations that take uncertainty into account.

Further information

Although the student will be based in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Strathclyde, they will be benefit from supervision by the wider SCDT team. According to the student interest and background, the research will be aligned and supported by one of StrathDRUMS partners, which include National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), National Physical Laboratory (NPL), and UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA). The student will thus be integrated within a vibrant and active multi-disciplinary research community with in-house training opportunities available across multiple faculties. In addition to undertaking cutting-edge research, the student will be registered for the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Development (PGCert), which is a supplementary qualification to develop core skills, networks, and career prospects. The successful candidate will be expected to conduct high-quality research in the areas of computational uncertainty quantification, participate in relevant training activities and events provided by StrathDRUMS, disseminate research findings through publications and presentations, contribute to the wider research community through engagement and collaboration with other researchers.