PhD Studentship: Self-powered Autonomous Surface and Underwater Vehicles for Persistent Observation

Supervisory Team: Dr N.C. Townsend, Prof A. Murphy

PhD Supervisor: Nick Townsend

Project description:

In this PhD project you will explore novel wave energy harvesting systems for maritime robotic systems, such as Autonomous Surface and Underwater Vehicles (ASVs and AUVs). These systems are a key enabling technology for the blue economy. However, powering long endurance systems is a challenge, currently requiring sufficient batteries or periodical recharging (and redeployment) from an expensive research vessel.

To reduce the emissions and the costs associated with these vehicles, you will explore the performance of novel, renewable, wave energy harvesting approaches. Here the research ambition is to extend the state of art from small scale sensor networks (nW’s to mW’s), towards a vehicular scale (W’s to kW’s) and self-sustainable systems. Ultimately, reducing the costs associated with exploration of remote, extreme maritime environments by realising self-powered robotic systems which recover the ambient wave power without emissions.

In the PhD you will have the opportunity to explore and develop novel renewable energy harvesting systems and devise and develop new modelling approaches and conduct experimental investigations. Throughout your PhD, working collaboratively with an industrial partner, you will be based in the Maritime Engineering group at the University of Southampton. You will have access to an array of hydrodynamics facilities including the 138x6x3.5m University of Southampton Boldrewood towing tank, the largest academic tank in the UK and first new facility of its kind for 50 years. In addition to networking opportunities and training through our existing doctorate training programmes and the Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute (SMMI). 

The PhD position would suit motivated candidates with knowledge or interest in any of the following: maritime engineering, renewable energy, maritime robotics, experimental hydrodynamics, mechatronics, kinematics, and dynamics.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2025.

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.  For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online, by clicking the 'Apply' button, above. 

Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”.

In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor N.C. Townsend

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. 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. 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. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward. 

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