The control of a liquid droplet’s wetting state on solid surfaces through the application of non-uniform electric fields is known as Dielectrowetting. By modulating the electric field, the wetting behavior of such droplets can be altered and can be employed to create uniform and controlled thin films. Advantages such as low power consumption, fast response time, and the ability to perform complex droplet manipulations with high accuracy and with precise control over droplet movement, spreading, splitting as well as film creation, Dielectrowetting and has applications in various fields, including microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip devices, digital microfluidics, and opto-fluidics. In previous work, we have shown that Dielectrowetting can be used to create thin circular films and that by releasing the electric field quickly (quenching), it is possible to study the dynamics of the contact angle in dewetting droplets.In this PhD you will create surfaces with ultra-low contact angle hysteresis and chemically treat them to obtain highly mobile contact lines. You will then investigate how the rapid retraction of the contact line for a dewetting droplet can lead to capillary waves on the surface of the droplet that are eventually damped by the viscous forces within the droplet. You will also investigate whether inertia in this system can be exploited for practical applications. It is expected that the applicant will have a good degree in Engineering or Physics with a good experimental background. We are particularly interested in hearing from applicants with experience in surfaces, fluids and/or droplet manipulation.The student will be part of the Wetting, Interfacial Sciences and Engineering Group within the Institute for Multiscale Thermofliuds. You will join a vibrant community of PhD students, postdoctoral research associates and academics working in various aspects of surfaces and wetting. Closing date: 12 Nov, 2027 Apply now Principal Supervisor Dr Gary Wells Assistant Supervisor Professor Glen McHale Eligibility Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants. Funding Applications are welcomed from self-funded students, or students who are applying for scholarships from the University of Edinburgh or elsewhere.Further information and other funding options.
