Civil Engineering: Fully Funded EngD Engineering Studentship in Multi-fidelity Simulation Ensembles for Near Real-time Failure Prediction in Digital Twins

Fusion is a multiphysics environment, and their interdependency makes predictions extremely challenging. Components such as breeder blankets require nearly real-time simulations at the design and operational phases. Many groups, including UKAEA computing, are equipped to carry out high-performance computing to investigate components. However, for real-time computing for design purposes and later for operational purposes, carrying out large-scale computing online is a huge challenge. 

Thus, we proposed a practical approach that integrates multiphysics information derived from large-scale computing, data (when available) and any other information. A flux-balancing (discrete system) approach can represent 3D physics phenomena in real-time. In addition, the project will also consider using machine learning methods for reduced order modelling and integrating them into a real-time Multiphysics discrete model.  

The objectives of the proposed EngD are: 

• Understand various breeder blanket designs and analyse the multiphysics environment.
• Carry out 3D calculations in Swansea and UKAEA to understand the physics and interaction between physics at the system level but focus on breeder blankets.
• Build on Swansea and UKAEA teams on the reduced order model and introduce a discrete approach that integrates detailed physics into the reduced order model. 
• Embed machine learning method for data integration, order reduction and fast computing.
• Use virtual and available data environments to test the real-time model for its speed and accuracy. 
• Test the model for failure predictions and predictive maintenance of the breeder blanket within the context of a fusion system.

This project is at the interface between UKAEA engineering and computing groups. Swansea will act as the bridge between these groups to deliver the best design options by combining high-fidelity simulations with design needs. 

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Funding

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (currently £20,780 for 2025/26). 

An RTSG budget is available for project costs. All costs associated with attending CDT training will be met by the CDT.

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