NERC CDT In Oil & Gas PhD studentship: Environmental Impact and Regulation - Decommissioning

The proposed project aims to determine the effects of marine growth on the behaviour of offshore structures. Such as decommissioned O&G structures, wind turbines and tidal stream generators. Marine growth could have a number of effects that could cause structural effects in the long-term. These include effects of the actual dimensions of underwater elements that can increased drag and displaced volume and increased hydrodynamic loading. Elements may become more hydrodynamically instable and increase the amount of vortex shedding and vibration and potentially change the natural frequency of sections and increase the dynamic amplification factor. This could also lead to sea bed scouring. A further issue is that of invasive species hosting.

In the case of decommissioned gravity base structures (GBS) in the North the key assumption for derogation is that the residual structural performance will be mechanically stable over very long periods (>500 years). The only way in which this can be done is be extrapolation of experience of terrestrial structures and coastal infrastructure. There is, however, little evidence that this has any validity and what modelling that has been carried has taken no account of marine growth.

The project will look at data gathering and physical modelling of different levels and types of marine growth on structural elements and then determine the effects it may have on long-term durability and performance of structures. The research will then study whether surfaces can or should be modified to limit or prevent marine growth.

With regards to the specific project, applicants will be evaluated on their experience and educational background in areas related to the subject and their likely ability to accomplish the two different aspects of the research involved.

The following guidance relating to evaluation criteria is provided for information to candidates applying for the above studentships. In general, the evaluators in assessing the applications will be looking for evidence closely matching the majority of the following attributes:

1. Clarity and focus of applicant’s statement of purpose and potential for higher degree studies.
2. Examples of research experience where applicable including undergraduate/MSc projects and any relevant research publications or presentations.
3. Degree of interest expressed by faculty / potential supervisors in working with the applicant as graduate student.
4. Writing / communication skills.
5. Status and quality of the applicant’s references.

The expected start date of the studentship is 1st of October 2018 to 1st November 2018.

To apply please forward a CV and letter of application for to consideration to:

Prof..M R Jones,
Professor of Civil Engineering
School of Science and Engineering
Fulton Building
University of Dundee,
Dundee DD1 4HN
[Email Address Removed]

Informal enquiries can be send to Prof. M R Jones ([Email Address Removed])