Wave energy scavenging technology for improved ship efficiency

Reducing the emissions of naval craft is a challenge with increasing and more complex payload demands and operational requirements in all weather conditions. 

To address the fundamental challenges of reducing emissions, and simultaneously increasing capability in adverse weather, in this PhD research project you will establish techniques for augmenting and supplementing ship power through recovering renewable wave energy. Wave energy usually has an adverse effect on ship performance and efficiency. However, inverting this problem raises an interesting and fundamental question, can wave energy be exploited to increase the capability and performance of marine craft? 

In this PhD you will explore the complex hydrodynamic and vessel interactions of dynamic biomimetic foils. By direct conversion of wave energy into thrust, these foils can be used to augment ship propulsion reducing the power to maintain a given speed in waves, saving fuel and reducing CO2 emissions. In addition, simultaneously acting to reduce the motions and added resistance in waves, further increasing performance and the comfort and safety on board. Throughout the PhD you will have the opportunity to create new modelling approaches from first principles and develop and trail new experimental techniques, advancing the scientific knowledge and experimental capabilities. In this PhD you will benefit and have access to a large array of facilities, networking opportunities and training throughout the program, including the 138m Boldrewood Towing Tank facility for experimental investigations and validation.  

For informal enquiries please get in touch with Dr Nick Townsend – [email protected]  

Funding for this project is offered by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Complex Integrated Systems for Defence & Security (CISDnS), which will recruit motivated and inquisitive candidates across the themes of Digital, Physical and Biological systems to provide a diverse and interconnected cohort training environment. You can read more about the Centre and the training programme at https://cisdns-cdt.ac.uk/  

To discuss aspect related to the CISDnS CDT please contact the directorate – [email protected]  

This PhD studentship is open only to UK applicants. This project is suitable for applicants with knowledge or interest in any of the following: maritime engineering, hydrodynamics, experimentation and mechatronics.  

CISDnS is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break or are transitioning into a new role. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. 

Closing date: 5th May 2025

Entry requirements: A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent). Following the diversity objectives of CISDnS, we will accept many forms of equivalent prior learning.

Funding: Full-time studentships will cover UK tuition fees and an enhanced tax-free stipend of approx. £24,700 per year for 4 years, along with a substantial budget for research, travel, and centre activities.  

How to apply

Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk).  

Select Full-time or Part-time, programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “iPhD Complex Integrated Systems in Defence & Security (Full-Time)” 

In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Dr Nicholas Townsend.

Applications should include:

curriculum vitae giving details of your academic record and stating your research interests

name two current academic referees together with an institutional email addresses in the Reference section of the application form. On submission of your online application your referees will be automatically emailed requesting they send a reference to us directly by email.

your academic transcript and degree certificate (translated if not in English) – if you have completed both a BSc & an MSc, we require both.

include a short statement of your research interests in the Personal Statement section of the application form.