PhD Studentship: Developing the Next Generation of Ground Anchors for Floating Offshore Wind Turbines – TAILWIND

PhD Supervisor: Dr Benjamin Cerfontaine

Supervisory Team: Dr Benjamin Cerfontaine, Prof David White, Prof Susan Gourvenec

Lead the Way in Sustainable Energy Infrastructure

Are you interested in the development of offshore wind energy and have a passion for geotechnical engineering? This PhD position is for you. This project is a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of sustainable energy infrastructure while deepening your expertise in geotechnical engineering.

Project Description

You will be part of the EU-funded TAILWIND project, which aims at developing sustainable by design stationkeeping systems for floating offshore wind turbines, including novel mooring lines and anchors. Floating offshore wind energy holds immense potential for harnessing clean and renewable energy and reach the net zero objectives worldwide. However, ensuring the stability of these floating turbines under challenging environmental conditions requires innovation.

What will you do?

• Innovative anchor design: Develop novel anchor concepts, and installation techniques to ensure robust performance in complex seabed environments.
• Advanced geomechanical analysis: Employ advanced physical and numerical modelling techniques to understand anchor behaviour under cyclic loading.
• Experimental testing: Validate your theoretical findings through laboratory testing, collaborating with other project partners.

What is the expected impact of this research?

• Cost reduction: Optimise anchor design and installation for cost-effective deployment of floating wind farms.
• Environmental sustainability: Enable wider adoption of offshore wind energy, a clean and renewable source of power.
• Technological advancement: Push the boundaries of knowledge in geotechnical engineering for offshore applications.

Who are we looking for?

• A highly motivated and self-directed individual with a strong foundation in geotechnical or civil engineering.
• Experience with soil mechanics, numerical modelling, and/or experimental testing is highly desirable.
• A passion for renewable energy and a desire to contribute to a sustainable future.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with supervisors, researchers, and industry partners.

What are the benefits for you?

• Work with a team of academic and industry experts in the design of floating offshore wind systems and use state-of-the-art facilities.
• Develop advanced numerical and physical modelling skills, together with a deep knowledge of anchor design, that will enable you to choose your preferred path in academia or industry.
• Develop transferrable skills, write journal papers, attend conferences and extend your network by participating to the TAILWIND project activities.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Benjamin Cerfontaine, Email: b.cerfontaine@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.

The position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.  For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton 

How To Apply

Apply online by clicking 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 Dr Benjamin Cerfontaine

Applications should include:

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

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