PhD Studentship: Fully Funded Swansea University and TWI PhD Scholarship: Integration of AI Model-based and Physics-based Digital Twin for Predictive Non-destructive Evaluation

Funding providers: Swansea University and TWI Ltd

Subject areas: Computer science, material engineering, aerospace engineering, civil engineering 

Project start date: 1 October 2023 (Enrolment open from mid-September)

Project description: 

The project aims to study the feasibility of developing an AI model-based digital twin model, trained by the simulated data from physics-based model for predictive NDE. This will be achieved by systematically integrating modelling, data and AI into digital twin practices, and be delivered through the following inter-linked and measurable objectives: 

1. Develop appropriate AI model and digital twin framework to work with data acquired for different NDT disciplines (e.g. acoustic emission, ultrasound and computed tomography).
2. Study, develop and validate AI models as model-based digital twin for the test specimen to predict the health conditions, which can be calibrated and improved using online test data
3. Develop novel methods to enhance current NDT capability by exploiting AI as predictive model (using data acquired over time). 

The nature of the research work will be largely on modelling, data and AI, with the support of material characterization using the advanced material analysis suites at the Faculty of Science and Engineering of Swansea University. 

Eligibility

Candidates must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level in Computer Science, Mathematics or a closely related discipline, or an appropriate master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University).

As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.

English Language requirements: If applicable – IELTS 6.5 overall (with at least 6.0 in each individual component) or Swansea recognised equivalent.

Due to funding restrictions, this scholarship is open to applicants eligible to pay tuition fees at the UK rate only, as defined by UKCISA regulations. 

Funding Details

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (currently £17,668 for 2022/23).

Additional research expenses will also be available..

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