Complex flow patterns within the urban-canopy layer (UCL) are induced by the heterogeneities of urban morphology and the varying wind directions. The mean wind direction within an urban canopy changes with height when the incoming flow is not orthogonal to obstacle faces. However, current climate models are barely built to consider this fundamental mechanism until we have a comprehensive understanding of the wind direction effects.

In this project, the student will contribute to enhance the understanding of varying wind direction by analysing an an urban flow dataset prepared by high-resolution computational fluid dynamics model. The student will undergo training on how to identify the impact of varying wind directions by visualizing the wind field and quantitatively characterizing the relationship between the incoming flow to the urban geometry. 

The results will be used to inform future research into the development of urban climate models in response to the climate change and rapid urbanization.

Supervisor: Dr Negin Nazarian (n.nazarian@unsw.edu.au)

Location: This project can be undertaken at UNSW.