PhD Studentship: Prediction of the vibration and acoustic radiation from underwater structure using SEM based numerical methods at University of Southampton

Closing Date
31 August 2022

More info

Project title: Prediction of the vibration and acoustic radiation from underwater structure using SEM based numerical methods

Supervisory Team: Dr Jian Jiang, Prof Tim Leighton, Prof Paul White

Project description

The vibration excited by environmental factors, such as wind, wave and strong current can cause significant safety problems for structures submerged or semi-submerged underwater, such as cargo ships, underwater pipelines and oil-rigs. Currently, these structure vibrations can be investigated using numerical tools, such as the ever popular finite element method (FEM). However, depending on the scale of the structure, FEM can struggle of getting accurate results at high frequencies. As an alternative, spectrum element method (SEM) has the advantages of requiring a lot less elements and can provide more accurate results at higher frequencies. However, it  hasn’t received enough attention until recent, due to the difficulty and complexity of deriving the spectrum shaping functions of each element type and their couplings. Besides that, the SEM has not been fully integrated into the underwater environment due to the fact that acoustic radiation impedance inside the water has to be considered unlike the case in the air.

This project aims to further develop and integrate the SEM into the underwater environment, and couple it with FEM and boundary element method to make a more powerful numerical tool which can have wide application in many industries.

The potential candidates should have an education background in Acoustics, Mathematics, Aerodynamics or  Mechanics. The knowledge of numerical modelling and computer programming languages are essential. The experience of software development is desirable.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Jian Jiang, ISVR, Email: Jian.Jiang@soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 957.

Entry Requirements

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

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2022 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £16,062 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.

How To Apply

Applications should be made online. Select programme type (Research), 2022/23, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Jian Jiang

Applications should include:

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

Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page

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.