Droplet Dynamics on Patterned Liquid-Like Surfaces

Friction is a key limiting factor affecting the motion of liquids in contact with solid surfaces. When water droplets interact with a solid surface, friction can severely limit the speed at which they move, or hamper their motion altogether. Fundamentally, friction between droplets and solid forces is an open field of research in fluid mechanics, with important applications in a range of fields, from microfluidics to self-cleaning and heat transfer.   
 
Recently, we have initiated research on the interaction between droplets and liquid-like surfaces. These are surfaces created by grafting polymer chains to a solid substrate, thus creating an ultrasmooth surface. In this project you will study the dynamics of droplets on patterned LLS, where a surface topography, or a chemical pattern, is applied. The scope of the project will be experimental, theoretical, or a combination of both, depending on your specific skill set. By addressing the questions of this project, you will be pushing the boundaries of knowledge in this new field and kick-start your postgraduate career.
 
If successful, you will become a member of the Wetting, Interfacial Sciences and Engineering Group within the Institute for Multiscale Thermofluids at the School of Engineering. You will join a vibrant community of PhD students, postdoctoral research associates and academics working in various aspects of surfaces and wetting, and will develop as a scientist benefiting from our track record, which includes publications in top journals, international collaborations and contributions to key international conferences.
 
The following academic team will be part of your supervision team:
 
Principal supervisor:
 
Assistant supervisors:
 

Informal queries can be directed to Dr Rodrigo Ledesma-Aguilar (Rodrigo.ledesma@ed.ac.uk)

Further Information: 

The University of Edinburgh is committed to equality of opportunity for all its staff and students, and promotes a culture of inclusivity. Please see details here: https://www.ed.ac.uk/equality-diversity

Closing Date: 

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Click here to Apply Now

Principal Supervisor: 

Dr Rodrigo Ledesma-Aguilar

Assistant Supervisor: 

Dr Gary Wells

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.

We expect that you will have a good degree in Engineering or Physics with an experimental and/or modelling background. We are particularly interested to hear from applicants with experience in surfaces and fluid mechanics.

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.

Informal Enquiries: 

Dr Rodrigo Ledesma Aguilar (Rodrigo.ledesma@ed.ac.uk)