This fully funded PhD studentship is offered by University College Cork within the MaREI Centre’s Circular Economy Energy and Environmental Systems (CEEES) Research Group. The research project, titled “Low carbon fuel pathways for remote island ferries,” is supported by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and aims to address the urgent need for decarbonisation in Ireland’s short distance maritime transport sector. The successful candidate will investigate the feasibility of electrifying remote island ferry routes, including battery swapping, opportunistic charging, and hybrid options that incorporate liquid and gaseous fuels. The project will also explore the production and use of e-fuels and biofuels within circular economy systems, with a strong emphasis on techno-economic, life cycle, and multi criteria decision analysis.

The PhD will be based in the MaREI Centre for energy, climate and marine, a leading research centre within UCC’s Sustainability Institute. The Institute is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to global sustainability challenges, with expertise spanning environmental, marine, energy, sustainable materials, and food research. MaREI itself is a collaborative hub, involving 13 universities and over 100 industry partners, and has secured more than €130 million in research funding. The CEEES group, comprising around 20 researchers, focuses on renewable advanced fuel production, including biofuels, biorefineries, e-fuels, and innovative energy conversion technologies. Research activities range from laboratory-scale production of biohydrogen and biomethane to desktop analyses such as chemical kinetic modelling, process simulation, and sustainability assessments.

The AI-Ferry project specifically targets the development of alternative indigenous fuels for use in island ferry services, addressing both technical and policy challenges. Ireland’s maritime transport sector is vital for economic growth and community connectivity but is also a significant source of emissions. The project will provide key insights into the feasibility, cost implications, and operational challenges of adopting low-emission technologies, including the impacts on port decarbonisation strategies and the effectiveness of current regulatory frameworks.

The studentship offers a tax-free stipend of €25,000 per year for four years, with EU tuition fees covered. Non-EU applicants may be required to pay additional fees. The position is based at the School of Engineering and Architecture, University College Cork, starting July 1st, 2026. Applicants must hold a first-class honours degree (or equivalent) in civil, environmental, energy, mechanical, chemical, or electrical engineering, and demonstrate experience in integrated energy and transport systems. Strong teamwork, communication, and organisational skills are essential. Non-native English speakers must provide evidence of proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 6.0 in each section).

To apply, candidates should email their application and supporting documents to Prof Jerry D Murphy at [email protected], ensuring all eligibility criteria are met. Further details and the internal application form are available via the official position link. This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about sustainable energy, transport decarbonisation, and interdisciplinary research in a dynamic, collaborative environment.