Degree type
PhD
Closing date
18 July 2022
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic/International
About the research project
Despite the growth of slope stabilisation techniques for sustainable developments, current methods to assess the stability of large-scale slopes, as well as the effects of progressive deformation on the safety of buildings and critical infrastructure such as transportation facilities are often flawed and inefficient. This project aims to address the need for improved reliability by uniting mechanical and civil engineering in a unique and innovative fashion through the development of advanced numerical simulation techniques.
The proposed research involves the development of a meshless numerical simulation method known as the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) to assess geotechnical sustainability, particularly in the field of long-term slope characterisation and performance. The project will incorporate state-of-the-art interdisciplinary research, promoting fluid mechanics approaches for civil geotechnical engineering applications. The objective of the research is the creation of an efficient tool for large-scale slope stability and earthflow analysis. The method will have major benefits for urban and rural areas, maximising the safety and reliability of civil infrastructure.
Primary Supervisor
Meet Dr Gholamreza KefayatiFunding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $28,854 per annum (2022 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Applicants from the following disciplines are encouraged to apply:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- A solid knowledge of soil-structure and fluid-structure interaction
- A solid knowledge of numerical modelling methods such as (Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics, Finite Element and
Computational Fluid Dynamics) - Knowledge of a programming language (e.g. Python and MATLAB)
- Strong academic background in engineering and capability to work independently
- Motivated to learn and have a scientific mindset and team spirit
Application process
There is a three-step application process:
- Select your project, and check you meet the eligibility and selection criteria;
- Contact the Primary Supervisor, Dr Gholamreza Kefayati to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- Submit an application by the closing date listed above.
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- As part of your application, you will be required to submit a covering letter, a CV including 2 x referees and your project research proposal.
Following the application closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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