Dr. Mehdi Biroun
Senior Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mehdi-H-Biroun
I earned my PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Northumbria University, UK, in 2021. My research centred on numerical and experimental investigations of droplet actuation using surface acoustic waves. Prior to my doctoral studies, I completed an MSc in Mechanical Engineering at K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Iran (2011), and a BSc in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Tabriz, Iran (2007).
Before joining the Dyson Institute, I held an academic position as a research fellow at University College London (2021–2022), where I contributed to the PharmaSEL Prosperity Partnership and worked on complex granular flows and optimising continuous pharmaceutical mixing processes. I previously lectured at QA Pathway College (2018–2021) and conducted research at West Pomeranian University of Technology (ZUT) in Poland (2014–2015).
In August 2022, I joined the Dyson Institute as a Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering. I teach core modules on fluid dynamics, heat transfer, thermodynamics, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Throughout my career, I’ve focused on integrating real-world applications into engineering teaching to make complex concepts accessible and realisable.
My teaching philosophy centres on inquiry-based and problem-based learning. I believe students learn best when they actively engage with real-world and industrial examples that bring theoretical concepts to life. By introducing practical scenarios, I encourage students to participate in discussions and collaborate on complex, open-ended problems—fostering critical thinking and deep understanding. Storytelling is at the heart of my approach. I try to craft lessons that evolve like a narrative, connecting ideas in a memorable and engaging way. Students have described my advanced fluid dynamics modules as “like sitting in a cinema,” highlighting the immersive and captivating experience I aim to create in every class.
I enjoy reading history books and watching documentaries, and I’m also passionate about cooking and woodworking. I’ve followed Tractor FC and Manchester United for years as a dedicated football fan. And when it’s time to relax, I love unwinding with movies and series. If you want to go for a long walk and talk about history or geography, count on me!
Qualifications
- PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Northumbria University 2021
- MSc in Mechanical Engineering, KNTU, 2011
- BSc (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering, University of Tabriz, 2007
- Professional Diploma in Digital Learning Design, Digital Learning Institute (2024)
Memberships
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
- Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE)
- Chartered Engineer (CEng)
At the Dyson Institute, the relationship between teacher and student goes far beyond the classroom. What excites me most is working in an environment where today’s learners become tomorrow’s colleagues—allowing me to support and follow their growth even after graduation. It’s inspiring to know that our students will make a global impact, designing innovative solutions for real-world challenges.
The institute’s close connection with Dyson’s research and development teams means I can enrich my modules with cutting-edge industrial examples. I love engaging students in hands-on activities that push them to develop, optimise, and apply fundamental theories. This approach transforms students into active problem-solvers.
Dyson Institute is young but ambitious, offering a unique blend of academic excellence and practical experience. Since joining, I’ve enjoyed contributing to program development through various committees. The opportunity for personal and professional growth here is truly unique—rarely matched by other universities.
- Thermofluids II
- Advanced Fluid Dynamics
- CFD and Turbulence
Research
My research primarily focuses on two interconnected areas within thermofluids science:
Numerical Modelling of Multiphase Flow Systems
I specialise in both computational and experimental studies of complex multiphase flows, with a particular emphasis on granular flows, Acoustofluidics, and droplet and bubble dynamics. Understanding the physics of droplet impact is a fundamental challenge in fluid dynamics and underpins many industrial and technological applications—including lab-on-a-chip systems, energy-harvesting microsystems, and liquid actuators. I explore droplet formation, impact behaviour, and breakup mechanisms to advance precision control in microfluidic environments.
In parallel, I investigate granular flow behaviour, which is critical for sectors such as pharmaceutical manufacturing, agriculture, and natural disaster prediction (for example, landslides and avalanches). My research aims to develop predictive models that capture the complex interactions between particles and surrounding fluids under varying conditions.
System Modelling of Fuel Cell-Based Energy Systems
I’m also interested in the system and dynamic modelling and optimisation of fuel cell systems. My research examines how operating parameters influence system performance, efficiency, and reliability—contributing to the development of sustainable energy technologies for both transportation and stationary power applications.
Publications
- M. H. Biroun, J. Taghipour, M. Ikhlaq, J. Howarth, L. Mazzei, and Y.-Q. Fu, “Energy dissipation mechanisms during droplet impact on superhydrophobic surfaces,” Physics of Fluids, vol. 37, no. 5, May 2025.
- M. H. Biroun, E. Sorensen, J. L. Hilden, and L. Mazzei, “CFD modelling of powder flow in a continuous horizontal mixer,” Powder Technology, vol. 428, p. 118843, 2023.
- M. H. Biroun, L. Haworth, P. Agrawal, B. Orme, G. McHale, H. Torun, M. Rahmati, and Y.-Q. Fu, “Surface acoustic waves to control droplet impact onto superhydrophobic and slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces,” ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, vol. 13, no. 38, pp. 46076–46087, 2021.
- M. H. Biroun, M. Rahmati, M. Jangi, B. Chen, and Y.-Q. Fu, “Numerical and experimental investigations of interdigital transducer configurations for efficient droplet streaming and jetting induced by surface acoustic waves,” International Journal of Multiphase Flow, vol. 136, p. 103545, 2021.
- M. H. Biroun, M. Rahmati, R. Tao, H. Torun, M. Jangi, and Y.-Q. Fu, “Dynamic behavior of droplet impact on inclined surfaces with acoustic waves,” Langmuir, vol. 36, no. 34, pp. 10175–10186, 2020.
- M. H. Biroun, J. Li, R. Tao, M. Rahmati, G. McHale, L. Dong, M. Jangi, H. Torun, and Y.-Q. Fu, “Acoustic waves for active reduction of droplet impact contact time,” Physical Review Applied, vol. 14, p. 024029, 2020.
- P. Pianko-oprych and M. H. Biroun, “Dynamic analysis of load operations of two-stage SOFC stacks power generation system,” Energies, vol. 10, no. 12, p. 2013, 2017.
- M. H. Biroun, A. H. Shamekhi, and A. Yazdani, “Dynamic modelling and simulation of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell used in vehicles,” Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy, vol. 4, no. 4, 2012.
For full list of my publications please visit my google scholar page.
