Air-sea fluxes over waves and impact on upper ocean mixing

The objective of this research is to study turbulent fluxes at the air-sea interface and investigate how their dynamics are affected by realistic wind-wave condition. This is achieved by conducting and analyzing laboratory measurements of turbulent fluxes of momentum and temperature across the air-sea interface. The ideal candidate has experience with or interest in Particle Image Velocimetry and/or Laser Doppler Anemometry systems, oceanographic microstructure instrumentation (temperature, shear), and boundary layer dynamics. The experimental data is complemented by results from high-resolution non-hydrostatic numerical simulations, experience with numerical models, in particular computational fluid dynamics is a plus. Our lab also works on topics related to fiber-optics based sensors (temperature, flow), and bio-inspired engineering, in particular the implementation of mechanisms for reduction of boundary layer turbulence and drag using both passive and active approaches (shark skin, dolphin skin).

key words

air-sea interaction; experimental fluid dynamics; boundary layer dynamics; numerical simulations; computational fluid dynamics; physical oceanography

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants

Additional Benefits

Relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

Health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.