PhD Position in microfluidics; Numerical methods for modeling liquid-vapor interfaces in lab-on-a-chip devices

Are you passionate about fluid dynamics and eager to tackle real-world challenges in microfluidics? imec invites motivated students to apply for a PhD position focused on developing advanced numerical methods for two-phase fluid flow, with a special emphasis on accurately modeling the liquid/vapor interface.

Microfluidic systems are revolutionizing fields from medical diagnostics [1, 2] (reducing sample volume and time-to-result) to high-performance computing [3, 4] (offering innovative and highly-performant cooling solutions). However, preventing and removing air bubbles remains a persistent challenge [5], especially as channel dimensions shrink and surface tension effects become more pronounced. At imec, we are pioneering micro/nanofluidic technologies—for example, to address arrays of solid-state nanopores for molecular sensing [6, 7]—to drive innovation in life science applications. To push these technologies forward, better predictive tools are needed to prevent bubble formation and ensure reliable fluid flow before committing to production of complex nanofabricated devices.

While commercially available computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software can simulate two-phase systems using methods like volume-of-fluid, level-set, or phase-field approaches, these often fall short in accurately describing the physics due to their simplified treatment of the liquid-vapor interface [8, 9]. This PhD project aims to develop novel, improved numerical methods for multi-phase flows to overcome the limitations of existing approaches. As part of your research, you will also conduct microfluidic experiments to benchmark and validate your models using state-of-the-art techniques such as micro-particle image velocimetry and high-speed liquid-vapor interface tracking.

We are seeking candidates with strong analytical skills, a passion for science, and ideally prior experience in numerical methods for CFD. At imec, you will join a dynamic, multidisciplinary team at the forefront of microfluidics research, gaining hands-on expertise in fluid mechanics and computational modeling. Your work will contribute to cutting-edge solutions in areas ranging from medical diagnostics to advanced liquid-coolers for AI and high performance compute.

Embark on an exciting journey with imec and help shape the future of microfluidic technology. Apply now to become part of a vibrant research community dedicated to innovation and scientific excellence.

References:

1. "Microfluidics". imec. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
2. "Merck and imec collaborate to develop a disruptive MicroPhysiological Systems platform". imec. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
3. "Imec demonstrates efficient cost-effective cooling solution for high performance chips". imec. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
4. "How to efficiently cool power electronics and optoelectronic sensors?". imec. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
5. "Bubbles in Microfluidics: How They Form and How to Avoid Them".  The Microfluidic Circle. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
6. “Solid-state nanopores”. imec. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
7. "Digiome: realizing the promise of nanopore protein sequencing". imec. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
8. Abadie, Thomas, Joelle Aubin, and Dominique Legendre, “On the combined effects of surface tension force calculation and interface advection on spurious currents within Volume of Fluid and Level Set frameworks”, Journal of Computational Physics (2015), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcp.2015.04.054.
9. Wörner, Martin, “Numerical modeling of multiphase flows in microfluidics and micro process engineering: a review of methods and applications”, Microfluidics and Nanofluidics (2012), https://doi.org/10.1007/s10404-012-0940-8.