LIFD welcomes two new deputy directors
Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics (LIFD) has appointed two new Deputy Directors in its drive towards world-class excellence in its field.
Harvey Thompson, Professor of Computational Fluid Dynamics in the School of Mechanical Engineering, has been appointed to lead LIFD’s internal engagement. He currently teaching modules in Engineering Computational Methods and Engineering Design Optimization, and his research focuses on the development and application of machine learning, surrogate modelling, and engineering design optimisation methods within flow assurance and manufacturing systems.
Speaking about his new appointment, Professor Thompson said: “I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to contribute to LIFD’s excellent work promoting fluid mechanics both within and outside the University of Leeds, and I look forward to using my experience of mentoring colleagues to help them achieve their career aspirations.”
Joining Professor Thompson is Dr Timothy Hunter, whose new role as LIFD Deputy Director will see him spearhead industrial engagement initiatives. Dr Hunter is a chemical and nuclear engineer and leads the Nuclear Engineering Group (NEG) at the University, co-directing the new multiphase flow MULTIForm National Nuclear Users Facility (NNUF) within the School of Chemical and Process Engineering.
He said: “My vision is really ‘fluids for all’, with fluid dynamics being a central science bridging many different disciplines. I see LIFD as being one of the university’s most critical foci to help drive collaboration activities between industry, academics and greater society, generating lasting real-world impact.”
As Deputy Directors of LIFD, Professor Thompson and Dr Hunter will be responsible for developing a research and innovation plan in line with the University’s wider strategy, while growing LIFD’s keen focus on cross-disciplinary research activities. They will work proactively with colleagues in the Research and Innovation Service, Pro Deans, and Faculty and University activities, including LIFD's landmark CDT in Future Fluid Dynamics.
They will also manage LIFD’s budget for research development activities, help ensure suitable computational infrastructure for fluid dynamics research, manage support for Fellowship applications, and assist the Institute’s commitment to the Research Excellence Framework and other University review processes.
Professor Steven Tobias, the Director of LIFD and Professor of Applied Mathematics at the University, said: “I am exceptionally pleased to welcome Harvey and Tim as the new Deputy Directors of LIFD. It is an exciting time for fluid dynamics at the University of Leeds and more widely in the UK, with many strategic initiatives moving forward.
“I look forward to working closely with them to maintain Leeds’ status as an international centre of excellence for research and teaching in fluids.”
