Why choose this programme

Studying for a PhD in aerodynamics and environmental flow at the University of Surrey means being part of a multidisciplinary research community, where doctoral students come together to work on applied engineering research topics with a direct impact on society.

Our Centre for Aerodynamics and Environmental Flow conducts world-class research in experimental and computational fluid dynamics, with a leading global output in computational fluid mechanics, environmental fluid mechanics, turbomachinery and wind energy. We also host the Environmental Flow (EnFlo) Atmospheric Wind Tunnel, which is part of both the Atmospheric Measurement and Observation Facility and the National Wind Tunnel Facility. It is the only wind tunnel in the UK capable of reproducing the speed, temperature and turbulence conditions in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Our researchers also regularly collaborate with key players in industry, including QinetiQ, Rolls-Royce, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Jaguar Land Rover. We also host the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre in Thermo-Fluid Systems.

What you will study

Our Aerodynamic and Environmental Flow PhD will give you the knowledge, skills and expertise needed for a career in engineering, research or academia. You’ll be intellectually challenged, develop research and management skills, and become an expert in your chosen field of study.

It normally takes around three years to complete a full-time PhD. You’ll be assigned a minimum of two supervisors, who’ll guide you through your studies. You’ll learn how to conduct literature reviews, how to develop your ideas and verify them with experiments, and how to collaborate and perform interdisciplinary research. You will develop your skills over time to become an independent researcher.