The University of Southampton is offering four fully funded PhD positions under the supervision of Dr. Hongyu Zhang. These positions are supported by various Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) and focus on cutting-edge research areas including energy systems, quantum computing, machine learning, stochastic optimisation, climate modelling, and maritime analytics.

Project 1: Techno-economic modelling of sustainable data centre integration in the European energy system (SustAI CDT). This project aims to develop models for integrating sustainable data centres into the European energy grid, considering both technical and economic factors. Deadline: 27 January 2026.

Project 2: Quantum computing for large-scale stochastic optimisation in energy system planning (Quantum Technology CDT). This project explores the application of quantum computing to solve complex optimisation problems in energy system planning. Deadline: 31 July 2026 (International students: 31 March 2026).

Project 3: Machine learning and optimisation for climate modelling and energy system integration (MFC CDT). This project focuses on leveraging machine learning and optimisation techniques to improve climate models and integrate them with energy systems. Deadlines: Second round: 11 January 2026; Final round: 8 March 2026.

Project 4: Machine learning and stochastic optimisation for maritime anomaly behaviour identification (CISDnS). This project aims to develop advanced machine learning models to detect and analyse anomalous behaviours in maritime contexts. Deadline: 20 April 2026.

All positions are fully funded, covering tuition fees and providing a stipend. International students are eligible for some positions, with specific application deadlines. Applicants should have a strong background in computer science, electrical engineering, mathematics, or environmental science, and experience in machine learning, optimisation, quantum computing, or energy systems is highly desirable. English language proficiency is required for international applicants.

For detailed project descriptions and application instructions, please refer to the attached information sheet or visit the provided link. For further inquiries, contact Dr. Hongyu Zhang at [email protected].