3 years, expected start date September 2015.

Sponsor

Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)

Project Description 

Wind turbines experience millions of cycles of dynamic loading over their operational life. This long-term cyclic loading can cause changes in soil behaviour, which influences the behaviour of the structure (soil-structure interaction) and can potentially have a significant impact on the cost of wind power.

The objective of this fully-funded project is to use small-scale physical and numerical modelling to investigate the behaviour of wind turbine foundations under long-term cyclic loading and incorporate this into improved design methods. 

This project will include an opportunity to perform experiments using a 3.5m beam centrifuge, with short periods of time spent at the University of Dundee Geotechnical Centrifuge Research Centre. Centrifuge testing can model realistic soil-structure interaction problems at small scale by using an increased gravity level to replicate full-scale stresses. The results of centrifuge tests in this project will also be used to validate data from other modelling methods.

Name of the Supervisor(s)

Dr Helen Mitrani, School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences
Dr Mohamed Rouainia, School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences

Person Specification and Eligibility Criteria

This award is available to the candidates who meet the ESPRC eligibility criteria.

The project would be suitable for someone with a good knowledge of geotechnics or structural engineering. Applicants should be numerate, have a 1st class or upper 2nd class honours first degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or suitably related subject and be able to demonstrate an understanding of the dynamic behaviour of soils and structures.

Experience of programming and/or numerical modelling would be beneficial. The candidate must be able to confidently work independently and show initiative and also work well with others.

How to Apply

All applicants should complete the University’s postgraduate application form. Only mandatory fields need to be completed, quoting reference CI709
However, you will need to include the following information:
Insert the programme code 8040 in the programme of study section.
Select PhD School of Civil Engineering and Geoscience-Civil Engineering (Structural Engineering) as the programme of study.
Insert the studentship code CI709 in the studentship/partnership reference field.

Attach a covering letter and CV. The covering letter must state the title of the studentship and quote reference code CI709.

For further details, please contact: Dr Helen Mitrani, helen.mitrani<στο>ncl.ac.uk or Dr Mohamed Rouainia, mohamed.rouainia<στο>ncl.ac.uk