PhD position – Modeling wind–tree interactions

• Location

The PhD will be based at IRPHE (Institut de Recherche sur les Phénomènes Hors Équilibre) in Marseille, France, a leading French laboratory in fluid mechanics with a strong interdisciplinary tradition.

• Mission

This PhD project aims to develop and validate a model to estimate wind loads on individual branches, linking wind speed to induced loads while incorporating tree morphology, forest structure, spatial distribution, and sheltering effects from neighboring trees. The ultimate goal is a computationally efficient model to predict tree and forest development. The project combines field experiments, theoretical modelling of fluid–structure interactions, and numerical development in Python to create a predictive tool that improves upon current empirical approaches.

• Skills

Candidates should hold a Master’s degree in fluid dynamics, applied mathematics, soft matter physics, or biophysics, with an outstanding academic record. 

• Application

Candidates are invited to contact Christophe Eloy by email as soon as possible with:
1. A detailed CV
2. Contact information for at least two academic references
3. Full transcripts of their Master’s degree(s)
4. A motivation letter describing their past activities and research interests

• Contact

Christophe Eloy (christophe.eloy@centrale-med.fr)*
Thiéry Constant (thiery.constant@inrae.fr)