Postgraduate research project

AI-enhanced fluid-structure modelling to aid maritime decarbonization

Funding
Fully funded (UK and international)
Type of degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Entry requirements
2:1 honours degree View full entry requirements
Faculty graduate school
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Closing date

About the project

The marine and maritime sectors face an urgent need for green energy solutions and effective decarbonization strategies. Our project focuses on the development of AI-enhanced numerical tools to help address these challenges. 

Specifically, we will study the viscous flow dynamics associated with both rigid and flexible structures commonly found in various devices that harvest energy from the environment. These structures include:

  • wave energy devices
  • offshore wind turbine blades and support structures
  • fixed or floating
  • wind-assisted propulsion systems

The research outcomes will contribute to: 

  • optimizing device design
  • enhancing the understanding of flow behaviour
  • improving the overall performance of these critical technologies

This project centres on innovative numerical schemes based on the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). By going beyond the conventional Navier-Stokes framework, the LBM shows its strengths in adeptly managing complex boundary conditions and leverages the power of parallel computing. It provides a powerful platform for addressing the fluid-structure modelling challenges within this field. In addition, AI technology will play a crucial role as a supportive tool, contributing to more efficient and accurate turbulence modelling.

This opportunity is for you if you are:

  • passionate about mathematical and computational modelling in fluid mechanics
  • eager to tackle cross-disciplinary challenges
  • driven to create significant advancements through the development of AI-aided numerical schemes.

Under the guidance of experienced supervisors, you will have the opportunity to: 

  • develop mathematical and computational models that unravel fluid-structure complexities
  • bridge the gap between theory and practical applications, conveying the richness of interdisciplinary research
  • collaborate closely with experts in our maritime group, where we are at the forefront of cutting-edge numerical simulations and experimental studies, revolutionizing wind-assisted propulsion systems and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable maritime solutions.