Newcastle University
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PhD Studentship in Endurant Power and Propulsion Systems for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles in Offshore Energy Infrastructure Newcastle University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
The four-year EPSRC studentship provides 100% tuition fees for UK Home students, a minimum tax-free annual living allowance at the 2027/28 UKRI rate (the 2026/27 rate is £21,805), and a £20,000 research training support grant.
Deadline
Jan 7, 2027
Country
United Kingdom
University
Newcastle University
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About this position
Newcastle University is offering a four-year PhD studentship through the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Process Industries: Net Zero. The project focuses on developing an endurant power and propulsion system for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs operating in offshore energy infrastructure.
AUVs are increasingly important for inspecting offshore wind installations, subsea cables, and fixed or floating energy platforms. Current inspection and maintenance approaches often depend on crewed vessels and remotely operated vehicles, which can be expensive, weather-limited, carbon-intensive, and unsuitable for long-duration operations. This research will address those limitations by enabling persistent monitoring and rapid intervention in harsh ocean environments.
The project aims to develop a next-generation system capable of supporting AUV endurance beyond 1,000 hours and operational range beyond 2,000 miles, with deployment at depths of 500 metres or more. The research combines high-energy-density subsea battery systems with high-efficiency electric propulsion, with emphasis on intrinsic safety, energy efficiency, and adaptability to deep-sea conditions.
The PhD researcher will co-develop system requirements based on real offshore inspection missions, integrate battery and propulsion prototypes into an AUV platform, and conduct controlled tank testing followed by representative sea trials. The expected outcome is a validated power-propulsion module ready for integration into an endurant AUV.
The candidate will work with industrial partner Walker Subsea and will be co-supervised by academics from Newcastle University’s Process Intensification Group. The research contributes to the PINZ CDT’s broader goal of developing innovative technologies that accelerate the transition to a net-zero economy by supporting sustainable operation and maintenance of offshore renewable-energy infrastructure.
Funding details
The four-year EPSRC studentship provides 100% tuition fees for UK Home students, a minimum tax-free annual living allowance at the 2027/28 UKRI rate (the 2026/27 rate is £21,805), and a £20,000 research training support grant.
What's required
Applicants must have or expect to gain a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a subject relevant to the project, usually chemical engineering or chemistry, although other relevant qualifications may be considered. Enthusiasm for research, ability to think and work independently, excellent analytical skills, and strong verbal and written communication skills are essential. The studentship is available to UK Home students only.
How to apply
Apply through the Newcastle University Apply to Newcastle Portal. Select PhD in Process Industries; Net Zero (PINZ), using programme code 8856F, studentship code PINZ02-27, and include a personal statement and CV. Select “Write Proposal” and enter the advertised project title; no separate proposal upload is required.
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ApplyKite TwinLearns as you applyMake your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.