3D Hydro Simulations of Massive Star Interiors

Description: Prof Hirschi and his group combine 3D hydrodynamics and 1D stellar evolution simulations to further our understanding of the evolution and fate of stars. The group also uses stellar models as virtual nuclear physics laboratory to establish the impact of nuclear reaction rate uncertainties and also guide future nuclear physics experimental and theoretical efforts. The advertised PhD project will focus on large-scale 3-dimensional (3D) hydrodynamics simulations of convection in the late phases of stellar evolution. This project will involve running large-scale simulations and analysing the results in the context of the Reynolds-Average Navier-Stokes framework and Kolmogorov's turbulence theory. The successful candidate will join this research effort at the boundary between hydrodynamics, astro- and nuclear physics. She/he will also learn key computing skills and be exposed to the industry, which will give her/him a strong skills set for both an academic and an industrial career. This PhD project will run in parallel to the ChETEC COST Action, which is chaired by Prof Hirschi (http://www.chetec.eu) as well as the IReNA NSF network of networks (https://www.irenaweb.org/), for which Prof Hirschi sits on the steering committee. ChETEC and IReNA will offer great opportunities (training, networking, collaborations with both academic and industrial partners) for the successful candidate. Candidates with a degree in Mathematics or Computer Sciences and a background in fluid dynamics are strongly encouraged to apply.