A fully-funded PhD studentship is available at University College Cork and the MaREI Centre, focusing on low carbon pathways for remote island ferries. The project, funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), aims to examine the decarbonisation of remote island ferries through electrification strategies (such as battery swapping, opportunity charging, and hybrid modes) and the production of liquid and gaseous e-fuels and biofuels within circular economy systems. The research will employ desk top modelling, integrating techno-economic analysis, life cycle assessment, and multi-criteria decision analysis.

The supervisory team includes Professor Jerry D Murphy, Dr David Wall, Dr Richard O'Shea, Dr Barry Hayes, and Dr Nathan Gray, all based at University College Cork. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment at the MaREI Centre, collaborating with experts in environmental science, mechanical engineering, and chemical engineering.

The position offers a stipend of €25,000 per annum for four years, with tuition fees fully covered. Applicants should have a strong academic background in engineering, environmental science, or a related discipline, and experience with techno-economic analysis, life cycle assessment, or multi-criteria decision analysis is desirable. Good written and spoken English is required.

To apply, candidates must email their CV and a 1000-word perspective on decarbonising island ferries to Professor Jerry D Murphy ([email protected]) by noon on Thursday, 12th February 2026, using the subject line “AI Ferry_PhD_APPLICANT NAME”. For full details, visit the official vacancy page.