PhD Studentship – The Performance of Pontoons for Offshore Solar Energy

RFCSR; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 20,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development training

Conference participation

Academic publication outputs

Job summary

The University of Plymouth invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship on “The Performance of Pontoons for Offshore Solar Energy.” The project focuses on pontoon-based floating solar systems, their design, performance, and optimisation for offshore environments.

The successful candidate will undertake original research on structural integrity, hydrodynamics, and environmental interactions, with access to advanced facilities, software, and collaborations with industry partners and

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in engineering principles, particularly structural and mechanical engineering.
• Knowledge of hydrodynamics, offshore structures, or renewable energy systems.
• Experience with computational modelling, simulation software, or experimental testing.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team.

Responsibilities

• Undertake original research to investigate structural integrity, hydrodynamic performance, and environmental interactions of pontoon-mounted solar arrays.
• Design, performance, and optimisation of floating solar energy systems.
• Collaborate with industry partners and research networks; participate in conferences and publish outputs.

Skills

Engineering principles

Hydrodynamics knowledge

Computational modelling

Analytical & problem solving

Written & verbal communication

Independent & collaborative work

Education

Undergraduate degree in engineering/related field

Master’s degree desirable

Job description

PhD Studentship – The Performance of Pontoons for Offshore Solar Energy

General Description
The University of Plymouth invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship on “The Performance of Pontoons for Offshore Solar Energy.” This research project focuses on the design, performance, and optimisation of floating solar energy systems, with particular emphasis on pontoon-based structures in offshore environments.

The successful candidate will undertake original research to investigate structural integrity, hydrodynamic performance, and environmental interactions of pontoon-mounted solar arrays. The project aims to contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions by improving the efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness of offshore solar technologies.

The studentship provides an interdisciplinary research experience within the School of Engineering, offering access to advanced laboratory facilities, simulation software, and opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and research networks. The post includes professional development training, conference participation, and preparation of outputs suitable for academic publication.

Eligibility Criteria

• A first-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree in engineering, naval architecture, mechanical engineering, renewable energy, or a closely related discipline
• A relevant Master’s degree is desirable but not essential
• Demonstrated interest in renewable energy, offshore engineering, or fluid-structure interactions
• Ability to undertake independent research and manage a doctoral-level project

Required Expertise/Skills

• Strong foundation in engineering principles, particularly structural and mechanical engineering
• Knowledge of hydrodynamics, offshore structures, or renewable energy systems
• Experience with computational modelling, simulation software, or experimental testing
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team

Salary Details
Full funding covering UK tuition fees and a UKRI-standard tax-free stipend