PhD Studentship - Hydrodynamics of Wave Powered Ships

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

Project description

Wave energy can be used to improve the performance of ships and boats. By exploiting hydrodynamically the available wave energy, the motions, emissions, and powering requirements of ships operating in adverse weather conditions can be significantly reduced.

In this PhD program you will develop and test novel methodologies to evaluate energy saving systems that capture or exploit ambient wave energy for improved performance. The research, exploring key parameters and optimal configurations is expected to include the development of new, autonomous seakeeping experiments that capture steady and unsteady hydrodynamic performance of these technologies. The research ambition is to develop new experimental techniques for evaluating ship performance and facilitate the uptake of energy saving technologies. 

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 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 supervisorNick 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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