Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Naval Architecture for Tidal Energy Systems

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the
Environmental Fluid Mechanics research group at the Department of Engineering
Science (central Oxford). The post is funded by the EPSRC and is fixed-term
for 2 years with the possibility of extension.



The role is to lead the design and analysis of fixed bottom and floating
offshore structures for application to tidal stream energy systems. You will
work on the recently announced EPSRC-funded programme CoTide that is
developing whole system engineering models and innovative designs for tidal
energy systems. The CoTide project team brings together world-leading centres
at the Universities of Oxford, Edinburgh, Strathclyde and Sheffield. CoTide’s
team of around 35 researchers and academics will develop holistic integrated
models covering all aspects of tidal stream turbine design that will help to
reduce costs and support innovation to accelerate technology development and
deployment for the tidal stream industry.



The successful candidate will develop models and designs for the offshore
infrastructure required to support and operate tidal stream turbines. This
will include the design and analysis of fixed bottom structures as well as
floating systems together with their moorings. The role will include both
fluid dynamics modelling as well as structural design. You will develop
reduced order engineering models and integrate these into the wider co-design
framework working with other members of the programme team. You will also
investigate how system design coupled with metocean conditions affects the
available operational windows of structures and turbines.



You should possess a relevant PhD (or be near completion) in Engineering,
Naval Architecture, or a related discipline, have a strong background and
relevant experience in fluid mechanics and structural modelling of offshore
systems, experience of analysing floating body loads and dynamics, and possess
excellent communication skills.





Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof. Willden (email:
richard.willden@eng.ox.ac.uk ).



For more information about working at the Department, see
www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/



Only online applications received before midday on 6th May 2024 can be
considered. You will be required to upload a CV and a covering
letter/supporting statement explaining how you meet each of the selection
criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience, and the
details of two referees as part of your online application.



The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment
to promoting women in Science, Engineering and Technology.



Tidal energy, offshore renewable energy, engineering modelling, offshore
engineering, naval architecture.