PhD Studentship: Climate Resilient Submerged Infrastructure

2 weeks ago


Southampton, United Kingdom University of Southampton Full time

Supervisory Team: Dr Gustavo de Almeida; Dr Sergio Maldonado

Project description:

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD position on the investigation of novel design methods to improve the resilience of submerged infrastructure (i.e. bridge piers, wind turbines) subject to hydrodynamic action (e.g. currents and waves).

Many critical submerged infrastructures are exposed to increased risk due to climate-induced changes in environment conditions, such as increased river current or wave action. In order to design the next generation of submerged infrastructure that are sustainable and both cost and carbon efficient, new design methods are required.

In this PhD you will work at some of the world’s best laboratory and computing facilities to investigate novel ideas to tackle those challenges. You will have access to a world leading large scale hydraulic laboratory at the University of Southampton, where new ideas can be tested with high accuracy. You will also have access to one of the fastest supercomputing facilities in the UK.  

The successful applicant will join a world-leading research team and environment at the University of Southampton, a Russell Group member ranked as one of the world’s top 100 universities. They will join a vibrant and international community of over 400 PhD students in the School of Engineering.

This 3.5 years studentship covers tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend at the standard EPSRC rate, which is £19,162 for 2024/25. Applicants from all nationalities are encouraged to apply. The funding available is competitive and will only be awarded to an outstanding applicant. As part of the selection process, the strength of the whole application is taken into account, including academic qualifications, personal statement, CV and references. Applicants should have a good first degree in engineering or physics. Ideally, the applicant should have strong knowledge and experience in fluid dynamics/hydraulics. The planned start date is Autumn 2024, but an earlier start is also possible.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Gustavo de Almeida Water and Environmental Engineering Research Group, Emails: g.dealmeida@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: 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  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). 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 Gustavo de Almeida

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

This 3.5 years studentship covers tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend at the standard EPSRC rate, which is £19,162 for 2024/25. Applicants from all nationalities are encouraged to apply.



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