Research Associate in Marine Energy Structures

The Department of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Marine Engineering (NAOME) at the University of Strathclyde is part of the directorial team of the EPSRC-SuperGen Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub. The "ASAMES: Advanced Stress Analysis for Optimised Marine Energy Structures" project is funded under the flexible funding scheme in the EPSRC-SuperGen ORE Hub.

The ASAMES project brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers and industry partners to address a critical challenge in offshore wind turbine monopile structural integrity and longevity. The project uniquely leverages access to decommissioned monopile sections to quantify residual stresses throughout a structure's lifecycle.

We are seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate to join our team working on this innovative project. The research focuses on:

• Conducting a comprehensive post-mortem analysis of decommissioned monopile sections using advanced measurement techniques
• Developing and validating innovative methodologies for assessing residual stresses using complementary measurement approaches
• Creating advanced finite element simulation tools incorporating manufacturing, installation, and cyclic loading processes
• Establishing correlations between manufacturing-induced and service-induced residual stresses

The core methodology combines cutting-edge experimental techniques such as neutron diffraction measurements and destructive contour method with computational modelling through finite element analysis and Python-based automation for parametric studies.

The post is available for 24 months starting August 2025, with a structured work programme and regular engagement with both academic and industry stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in advanced structural integrity assessment methodologies with significant industrial relevance and to build connections across the offshore renewable energy sector. You will be part of Strathclyde's vibrant research community, working at the forefront of offshore renewable energy engineering.

The role involves conducting advanced stress analysis of offshore wind monopile structures using neutron diffraction and contour method measurements, combined with finite element modelling to quantify residual stresses. The PDRA will develop innovative methodologies and perform parametric studies to prepare optimised design guidelines for improved fatigue life performance.

Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to Dr Saeid Lotfian, ASAMES project principal investigator (saeid.lotfian@strath.ac.uk) and Prof Feargal Brennan, Professor of offshore Engineering (feargal.brennan@strath.ac.uk).