Browse our specialisms in modelling and simulation
Find out moreLeader in computational engineering
Advancing innovation through cutting-edge modelling and real-world applications across sectors
Established in 2011 with a partnership with EDF, the Modelling and Simulation Centre (MaSC) focuses on high-level numerical methods and physical modelling to address challenges in fluid dynamics, structural mechanics, and more.
Wide-ranging expertise in computational fluid dynamics and turbulence
Advanced computational methods for material mechanics across scales
Combining engineering modelling and simulation with AI driven design tools
Championing open-source software and sustainable computational research
What drives our work
Develop state-of-the-art computational methods
Develop a wide range of innovations for computational fluid dynamics and solid mechanics, applied to a spectrum of industrial sectors.
Leverage AI and data science
Integrate AI and machine learning with our work on physical modelling, including for design optimisation, uncertainty quantification, and low-order modelling.
Prepare for future computational infrastructures
Explore novel simulation modes, including exascale computing, quantum, virtual environments, digital twinning, and interactive design.
Build robust software infrastructure
Contribute to development of world-class, open-source software with robust management for validation and collaboration, leveraging research software engineers and computer science expertise.
Computational methods
Computational fluid dynamics
We work on the development of novel methods for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) across a range of methodologies.
Computational solid mechanics
We work on the development of advanced computational methods for understanding and predicting the mechanical behaviour of materials across multiple length and time scales. Our expertise spans from atomistic simulations to continuum mechanics, enabling comprehensive analysis of damage, fracture, and deformation in engineering materials.
Turbulence and flow physics modelling
We have a long and proud heritage working on the development of numerical approaches to model and simulate turbulent flow and its impact in various scenarios of fluid flow.
Materials modelling
We develop advanced modelling techniques to predict and optimise the performance of engineering materials, from metallic alloys to composites and quasi-brittle materials. Our work combines fundamental understanding of material physics with practical engineering applications.
Future simulation tools
From employing sophisticated optimisation algorithms to training machine learning models on high-fidelity simulation data, we develop future simulation tools that enhance model performance and reliability, paving the way for next-generation high-performance computing.
Areas of application
Low carbon and renewable energy
Our research supports nuclear energy through advanced modelling of reactor technology, waste disposal and decommissioning. Collaborations with EDF and the National Nuclear Laboratory ensure safe and sustainable nuclear solutions.
- Reactor technology (fusion/fission): Models reactor dynamics for safety and efficiency
- Nuclear fuel, waste and decommissioning: Simulates long-term waste storage solutions
- Decommissioning: Develops models for safe nuclear facility dismantling
- Wind: Optimises wind turbine designs through CFD
- Solar: Simulates solar panel thermal performance
Bioengineering and healthcare
Our bioengineering research, including cardiovascular flow and tissue engineering, improves medical technologies. We use SPH and CFD to model biological systems with high accuracy.
- Cardiovascular flow: Models blood flow for medical device design
- Tissue engineering: Simulates tissue growth for regenerative medicine
- Biomechanics: Analyses mechanical behaviour of biological tissues
Transport and propulsion
We enhance propulsion systems for automotive and aerospace applications through advanced aerodynamic and thermal modelling, improving efficiency and performance. We optimise aerodynamic performance for ground transport, satellites, and aircraft using advanced CFD, improving efficiency and safety across transportation sectors.
- Ground transport: Models engine airflow for efficiency
- Propulsion: Simulates jet engine performance
- Ground transport: Models vehicle aerodynamics for fuel efficiency
- Spacecraft flight: Simulates satellite drag in orbit
Civil and environment
Our research strengthens infrastructure through modelling coastal defences, natural hazards, and construction engineering, ensuring resilience against environmental challenges.
- Coastal defences: Models wave-structure interactions
- Natural hazards: Simulates earthquake or flood impacts
- Construction engineering: Optimises structural designs
- Atmospheric modelling