PhD: Offshore Wind O&M Costs and Climate-Driven Changes in Metocean Patterns University of Strathclyde in United Kingdom

This PhD opportunity at the University of Strathclyde is part of the EnerHy Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT), an EPSRC-funded programme dedicated to advancing research and training in renewable energy and hydrogen technologies. The EnerHy CDT is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, combining engineering, environmental science, and data analytics to address critical challenges in the energy sector.

The research project focuses on the long-term operations and maintenance (O&M) costs of offshore wind farms, specifically examining how climate-driven changes in metocean conditions—such as significant wave height, Atlantic swell patterns, storm frequency, and seasonal weather variability—impact maintenance strategies and operational risk. The successful candidate will use climate projections, metocean datasets, and advanced O&M modelling techniques to develop data-informed approaches for quantifying the effects of changing environmental conditions on offshore wind asset management. The project aims to provide actionable insights for offshore wind developers, helping them optimise operational strategies, anticipate future accessibility constraints, and support resilient, cost-effective asset management in regions like the North Sea, Irish Sea, Celtic Sea, and the west coast of Ireland.

The studentship is fully funded for four years, covering UK tuition fees and providing a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per annum. An additional £3,000 per year is allocated for consumables, travel, and research training support. The EnerHy CDT offers a comprehensive package, including all tuition fees, a substantial Research Training Support Grant (RTSG), and extra funding for outreach and professional development.

Applicants should have a first-class or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Physics, Data Analytics, or related fields. While experience with maintenance practices and environmental data is advantageous, it is not essential. The programme welcomes applications from both UK/Home and Overseas/EU candidates, with the application deadline for Overseas/EU set at 30 June 2026 and for Home/UK candidates open until all places are filled.

To apply, candidates should submit their CV, cover letter, and transcripts via the online portal and email the documents to the supervisors, Dr J Carroll and Mr A Smith. Early application is recommended, especially for Home/UK candidates, as places may fill before the official deadline.

This PhD position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of offshore wind energy, combining environmental science, engineering, and data analysis to address climate-driven challenges in renewable energy operations.