Ege Aktunc

Biography

I recently graduated from Keele University obtaining first class honours in the degree of Master of Mathematics (MMath) in 2023.

During my degree, I engaged in a range of fundamental modules in Applied Mathematics including differential equations, continuum mechanics, mathematical modelling, wave motion, fluid mechanics and hydrodynamic stability theory. Over the years, studying such advanced modules gave me a profound perspective for analysing and understanding the physical phenomena of mathematical models. In my final year, I undertook a Master's project (achieving a first class honours), supervised by Prof. Yibin Fu, where I investigated wave propagation in periodic flexural structures utilizing Euler-Bernoulli and Timoshenko beam theories with applications to  the dynamic characterisation of civil engineering structures. More specifically, this project focused on the analysis of the dispersive properties of such systems and their band-gap structure.
 
Additionally, I was awarded with the IMA (Institute of Mathematics and its Applications) prize for an outstanding performance within Mathematics field in 2022/23 (Master's year).

Subsequently, I have begun my PhD programme on Applied Mathematics in September 2023 under the supervision of Dr. Michael Nieves. On this project, I perform the analytical and numerical modelling of multi-scale materials with unconventional responses and that have applications in engineering.

Research and scholarship

My research focuses on the analytical and numerical modelling of multi-scale materials and structured elastic systems, with particular interest in unconventional dynamic behaviour and engineering applications.
 
My PhD research focuses on:
 
Micro-structured discrete elastic structures:
I investigate the dynamics of periodic elastic lattices, including their natural vibration modes (eigenmodes), pass-band structure and forced response. Utilising analytical techniques such as discrete Fourier transforms, I develop analytical approaches to determine closed-form expressions for lattice Green’s functions that characterise the response of discrete lattice systems subjected to point forces, enabling the examination of wave scattering and transmission within these systems.
 
Continuum modelling and homogenisation:
I develop effective continuum models of discrete elastic systems to establish connections between microstructural and macroscopic material behaviour, particularly in the long-wavelength and low-frequency regimes.
 
Edge resonances in elastic systems:
I study wave propagation, scattering and localised edge vibrations associated with edge resonance phenomena in discrete elastic waveguides, including lattices incorporating gyroscopic elements. These gyroscopic systems exhibit unconventional dynamic responses and wave phenomena. I also develop digital twin models for numerical validation of analytical results.
 
Alongside my PhD research, I have also worked on industry-focused research in computational mechanics and structural engineering. Through a Knowledge Exchange Hub for Mathematical Sciences (KE Hub) collaboration with Heathcote Industrial Plastics, I developed finite element models of advanced composite laminates (leaf springs) to predict their effective Young’s modulus and stiffness. The numerical predictions showed strong agreement with experimental measurements conducted by Heathcote Industrial Plastics, demonstrating the potential of digital twin modelling for the design and characterisation of manufactured composite structures.
 
I also completed a four-month industrial secondment in Bolzano, Italy, with CAEmate S.R.L., focusing on Structural Health Monitoring of civil engineering structures, with particular emphasis on Operational Modal Analysis

Publications

Aktunc, E., Nieves, M.J. & Mishuris, G.S. Dynamic Green’s functions for lattice systems with frontiers possessing contrasting periodicity and material properties. Continuum Mech. Thermodyn. 38, 95 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00161-026-01493-1

Aktunc, E., Nieves, M.J., Carta, G., Brun, M., Pagneux, V. (2026): Gyroscopic control of edge resonance phenomena in discrete elastic strips, (in preparation)

Aktunc, E., Nieves, M.J., Mishuris, G.S. (2026): Wave generation, scattering and transmission in dissimilar lattices with N-Cell superperiodic resonant interfaces, (in preparation).

Conferences, Workshops and Seminars

• European Solid Mechanics Conference (ESMC), Lyon, France — Invited Oral Presentation, 7–11 July 2025
• KE Hub Annual Meeting, University of Sheffield, UK — Oral Presentation, 26 November 2025
• Elasticity Day, Loughborough University, UK — Oral Presentation, 3 June 2026
• WHT Follow-on: The Applications, Generalisation and Implementation of the Wiener–Hopf Method, Isaac Newton Institute (INI), Cambridge, UK — Poster Presentation, 1–5 July 2024
• UK Graduate Modelling Camp, Mathematical Sciences, University of Cambridge, UK — Participant and Oral Presentation, 23–27 September 2024.
• I was selected through an application process to participate in collaborative short projects with Applied Mathematics PhD students from universities across the UK.