Continuum mechanics
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Our researchers work at the interface of theory, computation and experimentation with the aim of understanding the behaviour of complex continua.
Manchester has a long tradition of excellence in continuum mechanics, arising through the work and legacies of Osborne Reynolds, Sir Horace Lamb, Sydney Goldstein, Sir James Lighthill, Fritz Ursell and many others.
Our researchers employ a blend of techniques and scientific approaches in order to understand and predict the behaviour of a wide variety of continua arising in a vast range of applications.
We work with other Departments in the University and other researchers both nationally and internationally, in an interdisciplinary manner. We also collaborate closely with numerous industries.
Areas of expertise
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Fluid dynamics
Our fluid dynamics research group is one of the largest within the UK and Europe and spans many important sub-areas of fluid dynamics research.
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Geophysics and planetary science
Our research in the area of geophysical and planetary science covers many areas including avalanche dynamics and the search for meteorites in the Antarctic.
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Granular materials
Despite their abundance in the world around us our understanding of the way that granular materials behave is still relatively basic. We're tackling issues ranging from fundamental understanding through to practical problems of importance to industry.
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Solid mechanics and soft matter
The manner in which solid and soft materials deform is of critical importance in a range of applications. We're tackling a number of important problems, including the study of complex composites.
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Waves and metamaterials
The area of wave propagation covers a broad range of physical scenarios including acoustics, electromagnetic waves, water waves, non-destructive testing and seismic waves. Metamaterials aim to manipulate waves in novel ways.
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Research seminars
Research seminars on topics associated with continuum mechanics take place regularly in the following series:
PhD research opportunities
We welcome applications for PhD study in all areas of continuum mechanics. PhD enquiries related to this theme can be directed to Sean Holman.
Before applying, visit the 'areas of expertise' pages listed below to find out more about potential PhD supervisors.
To discover PhD opportunities in the Department of Mathematics, explore our Postgraduate research in mathematics.
