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CS - Dr Adrian Baule

Tracer advection in correlated active matter fields

Supervisor: Dr Adrian Baule

Project description:

The advection of a passive tracer in complex hydrodynamic flow fields is ubiquitous in science and nature. Recent decades have seen extraordinary interest in fluids that are driven away from equilibrium due to living organisms such as swimming bacteria or self-propelled colloids, which constitute so called active matter. While the tracer advection is well-understood for low-density active matter suspensions (see the recent progress in [1,2]), the treatment of high-density active fluids has posed considerable technical challenges. 

The aim of this project is to investigate the tracer statistics including its anomalous diffusive characteristics and displacement distribution in hydrodynamic models of increasing complexity. The project will further explore first-passage and target search problems of the tracer. The focus will be on analytical approaches using methods from field-theory and stochastic processes, complemented by numerical simulations depending on interest. 

Recommended background: 

  • MSc in theoretical physics or applied mathematics 
  • Background in stochastic processes, statistical mechanics, field-theoretical approaches (high-energy or statistical physics) 

References:

[1] K Kanazawa, TG Sano, A Cairoli, A Baule; Nature 579, 364 

[2] A Baule; Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 120, e2308226120 

Funding Notes:

This project is open to candidates applying for CSC/EPSRC/Underrepresented Studentships and self-funded candidates.

Further information: 
How to apply 
Entry requirements 
Fees and funding

PhD Information Session 2026:
On Wednesday 14 January, we will be holding a short information session about PhD studies in Mathematics at QMUL. For full details about the event, please visit: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/maths/postgraduate/postgraduate-research/phd-information-session-2026/

 

As one of the UK’s most diverse universities, QMUL fosters an inclusive and supportive academic community.

The School of Mathematical Sciences is committed to the equality of opportunities and to advancing women’s careers. As holders of a Bronze Athena SWAN award, we offer family-friendly benefits and support part-time study.  

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