Advancing maritime renewable energy through hydrogen and alternative fuel generation

University of Liverpool N0MES CDT

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Dr E Blanco Davis No more applications being accepted Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

Liverpool United Kingdom Electrical Engineering Energy Technologies Environmental Engineering Marine Engineering Mechanical Engineering Offshore Engineering

About the Project

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Net Zero Maritime Energy solutions (N0MES) has a 4-year funded PhD place available for an exceptional researcher. With the support of the University of Liverpool (UoL), Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and 33 maritime energy sector partners, N0MES PGRs will pursue new, engineering-centred, interdisciplinary research to address four vital net zero challenges currently facing the North West, the UK and beyond:

a) Energy generation using maritime-based renewable energy (e.g. offshore wind, tidal, wave, floating solar, hydrogen, CCS);

b) Distributing energy from offshore to onshore, including port- and hinterland-side impacts and opportunities;

c) Addressing the short- and long-term environmental impacts of offshore and maritime

environment renewable energy generation, distribution and storage; and

d) Decommissioning and lifetime extension of existing energy and facilities.

Renewable energy is at the forefront of global initiatives for sustainable development. This PhD opportunity seeks to address specific challenges and opportunities inherent in harnessing maritime-based renewable energy, with a specific focus on advancing the generation of hydrogen and other alternative fuels (e.g., e-fuels). The overarching aim is to contribute to the sustainable energy transition by developing innovative solutions for energy generation and infrastructure development in maritime environments.

Research pathways:

1. Hydrogen and/or E-fuels Production and Utilisation: Investigate current and novel methods for cost-effective hydrogen and/or e-fuels production from renewable sources, such as electrolysis powered by offshore wind or wave energy. Explore the integration of CCS (carbon capture and storage) and/or hydrogen fuel cells in maritime vessels and offshore platforms to reduce life cycle emissions and increase energy efficiency.

2. Infrastructure Development: Assess the feasibility and design considerations for integrating renewable energy systems into existing maritime infrastructure, including offshore platforms, ports, and coastal facilities. Innovative solutions for site selection of offshore energy generation and transmission will be explored, to overcome logistical challenges and maximise energy capture. Explore the risks associated with the establishment and operation of infrastructure for alternative fuels such as hydrogen and e-fuels in maritime ports and coastal regions, potentially including the development of risk management strategies to enhance resilience and ensure the continuity of power/fuel supply.

3. Environmental Impact and Life Cycle Analysis: Evaluate the environmental impact and life cycle emissions associated with the adoption of renewable energy technologies in maritime operations. This involves life cycle assessment, techno-economic modelling, and environmental risk assessments to inform decision-making and policy development.

Overall, the project can employ innovative data analysis, techno-economic modelling, life cycle assessment, risk assessment, and decision-making science methodologies to tackle elements of the above pathways, to develop fresh perspectives and avenues for safe, resilient, and environmentally efficient alternative fuel power generation from renewable sources.

Click here for more information about the N0MES centre at LJMU, the LOOM research centre where the researcher will be hosted, and our research capability

Funding Notes

The EPSRC funded Studentship will cover full tuition fees of £4,786 per year and pay a maintenance grant for 4 years, starting at the UKRI minimum of £19,237 pa. for 2024-2025. The Studentship also comes with access to additional funding in the form of a research training support grant which is available to fund conference attendance, fieldwork, internships etc.

EPSRC Studentships are available to any prospective student wishing to apply including international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise of international students.

References

We want all of our staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, if you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result.
We believe everyone deserves an excellent education and encourage students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply.
Applicant Eligibility
Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a Master’s Degree or equivalent from a reputable University in an appropriate field of Engineering. Exceptional candidates with a First Class Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate field will also be considered.
A background in marine engineering, naval architecture, or related fields would be advantageous, but a strong interest in maritime issues and a willingness to learn about the maritime industry and its challenges is essential. The candidate should demonstrate a genuine passion for contributing to sustainable energy solutions in maritime environments.
Important Application Process
Candidates wishing to apply should send your application to Dr Eddie Blanco-Davis, E.E.BlancoDavis@ljmu.ac.uk, with an email title “PhD scholarship in the N0MES CDT”. Please send the below: an up-to-date CV and a transcript, and a supporting statement [maximum 300 words] detailing; what inspires you within this project, how your skill set matches the project, up to 3 examples showing your commitment to science, piece of science that excites you & anything else to support your application.
After submitted, please also send your CV to the primary supervisor (Dr Eddie Blanco-Davis, E.E.BlancoDavis@ljmu.ac.uk).

Where will I study?

University of Liverpool

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