PhD Studentship - Automated Hydrodynamic Characterisation for Seakeeping and Manoeuvring Performance from Focused Experimental Datasets

Supervisory Team: Dr N.C. Townsend, Prof D.A. Hudson and Dr J.A. Bowker (industrial)

Project description

Ship model testing is expensive and time consuming. Can we derive hydrodynamic seakeeping and manoeuvring characteristics with focused datasets, eliminating time consuming single variable investigations?

In this PhD program you will develop and test novel methodologies to extract ship hydrodynamic characteristics from a focused set of tests. This may include techniques such as machine learning. You will benefit from the use of world class facilities including the 138x6x3.5m University of Southampton Boldrewood towing tank and 120x60x5m QinetiQ Ocean Basin. In addition, support, advice and guidance from industrial partners and the PhD supervisors (Dr Bowker*, Dr Townsend and Prof Hudson).

The research, exploring the cyber-physical domain for enhanced hydrodynamic test and evaluation, ambition is to disrupt conventional approaches and accelerate research and development cycles.

The PhD candidate will be based in the Maritime Engineering group (Instagram) at the University of Southampton. You will have access to a large array of facilities, networking opportunities and training throughout the program. Motivated candidates with knowledge or interest in any of the following: hydrodynamics, maritime engineering, experimentation, mechatronics and machine learning techniques are strongly encouraged to apply.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact N.C. Townsend, Maritime Engineering Research Group, Email: nick@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2024. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: Funding for tuition fees and a living stipend are available on a competitive basis. Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online via the ‘Apply’ button above. Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Nicholas Townsend

Applications should include:

Research Proposal

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

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