Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Digital Approaches to Nonlinear Structural Dynamic Modelling (Mechanics, Structural Vibration) Swansea University in United Kingdom

This fully funded PhD studentship at Swansea University offers an exciting opportunity to advance the field of nonlinear structural dynamic modelling using digital approaches. The project focuses on developing a comprehensive Mode Selection Framework for Reduced Order Modelling (ROM) in Structural Dynamics, leveraging machine learning and advanced computational techniques to create robust, interpretable models from experimental and operational data. The research aims to balance model accuracy with computational efficiency, supporting experimental validation and real-world applications.

Applications span several industries, including aerospace (for safer aircraft and spacecraft design and monitoring), civil engineering (real-time health monitoring of bridges and skyscrapers), renewable energy (optimized wind turbine blade design), and microstructures (efficient analysis of MEMS devices). The methodology developed will empower engineers and designers to make high-impact decisions more quickly and confidently, with reduced computational costs.

The studentship is based at Swansea University, supervised by Dr Alexander Shaw and Dr Hadi Madinei, both members of the prestigious Structural Dynamics research group within the Zienkiewicz Institute for Modelling Data and AI. The project is conducted in partnership with The Dyson Institute, with a required placement of at least three months, providing valuable industrial engagement and practical experience. The supervisors have extensive publication records and access to excellent laboratory facilities, ensuring a supportive research environment.

Funding is provided by an EPSRC IDLA award, covering full tuition fees and an annual stipend at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26), with a minimum enhanced stipend payment of £2,000 per annum for four years. Additional funds are available for networking, research costs, and training. The position is open to UK and international applicants, with earlier start dates possible subject to visa and ATAS processing.

Eligibility requires an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or non-UK equivalent) in Engineering or a related science discipline, with preference for candidates with experimental or practical experience. English language proficiency is required (IELTS 6.5 overall, 5.5+ in each component or equivalent). For international applicants, Swansea University provides guidance on country-specific entry requirements.

To apply, candidates should submit their application via the Swansea University portal, ensuring all academic and language requirements are met. The project offers substantial career development opportunities, including industrial placements, conference presentations, and access to cutting-edge research facilities.