Up to two fully funded PhD positions at the University of Missouri working on bubble deterrent systems for invasive carp management in the Upper Mississippi River. One experimental track (flume, PIV, ADV), one CFD track (OpenFOAM, FLOW-3D).
Joint supervision by Dr. Brandon Sansom (Ecohydraulics Lab) and Dr. Binbin Wang (Environmental Fluid Dynamics Lab). Collaboration with USGS and US Army Corps of Engineers. Students choose between experimental hydraulics (PIV, ADV, high-speed imaging) or CFD modelling (OpenFOAM/FLOW-3D, multiphase flow, turbulence closure). 3-year funding with stipend, tuition and benefits included. Preferred start Fall 2026 with Spring 2027 flexibility. Send CV, research statement (indicate CFD or experimental preference), transcripts, and 2-3 references to the PIs.
Master's or strong Bachelor's in civil/environmental/mechanical engineering, fluid mechanics, or related. CFD, programming (Python/C++/MATLAB) for the modelling track; lab or hydraulics experience helpful for the experimental track.
Heads up: eligibility rules and deadlines change each cycle. Always cross-check the official application portal before you submit.
Review the project page and decide which track (experimental or CFD) matches your background and interest.
Prepare a CV highlighting relevant coursework, research experience, and any publications or conference presentations.
Draft a 1-2 page statement of research interests. Make your track preference explicit and connect your skills to the project's specific methods (PIV/ADV, OpenFOAM, etc.).
Gather academic transcripts from all previous institutions.
Identify 2-3 referees (ideally former research supervisors or thesis advisors) and confirm they're willing to provide letters.
Email all materials directly to Dr. Sansom (sansomb@missouri.edu) and Dr. Wang (wangbinb@missouri.edu).
Prepare for a video interview. Expect questions on your research motivation, familiarity with multiphase flow or experimental fluid mechanics, and your post-PhD goals.
Most rejected applications fail on test scores, not credentials. Get a PBridge tutor to prepare you for the exams required for this scholarship.
Yes. The position is open internationally. Nigerian candidates with a relevant engineering or fluid mechanics background are encouraged to apply; F-1 student visa sponsorship is provided.
Full tuition waiver, a monthly stipend, and standard graduate benefits for three years. This is a research assistantship tied to a funded project, not a competitive scholarship.
Yes — two distinct positions are available. Indicate your preference in your statement of research interests. Position 1 is lab-based (bubble plume experiments, PIV, ADV). Position 2 is computational (OpenFOAM/FLOW-3D multiphase modelling).
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled. First-round interviews begin around May 25, 2026, so submit as early as possible.
Prior experience is a plus but not strictly required. For the CFD track, programming skills in Python, C++, or MATLAB and coursework in fluid mechanics are expected. For the experimental track, any hands-on lab exposure helps.
Deadline: Rolling — interviews from May 25, 2026
Apply on Official Site →