Applications are invited for a 3.5-year EPSRC funded
UDLA PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1 October 2026.
Project description
This project develops advanced simultaneous wireless information and power transfer technologies (SWIPT) for offshore applications and renewable energy, including wind and tidal systems. It overcomes limitations of subsea cabling - cost, maintenance, and environmental vulnerability - by exploiting electromagnetic induction and resonant coupling to create robust, efficient, and scalable SWIPT devices. The project integrates theoretical modelling, simulation, and experimental validation to enable safer, flexible, and lower-cost offshore power architectures. The project will produce efficient, practical SWIPT systems with novel metamaterial devices, enhanced adaptability, and validated performance. Results will lead to high-impact publications and advancements.
Eligibility
Applicants should have a first or upper second class honours degree in an appropriate subject and preferably a relevant Masters qualification. Strong background in electromagnetics, or wireless communication systems is preferred. Experience with simulation tools (e.g.: CST, HFSS) and/or experimental characterisation of electromagnetic devices is a plus. Applications from both UK and overseas students are welcome.
The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes full Home tuition fees, Bench fee plus a Stipend of £21,805 per annum 2026/27 rate. The studentship will only fully fund those applicants who are eligible for Home fees with relevant qualifications. Applicants normally required to cover International fees will have to cover the difference between the Home and the International tuition fee rates. The international component of the fee may be waived for outstanding international applicants.
There is no additional funding available to cover NHS Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs, visa costs, flights etc.
- The studentship is supported for 3.5 years of the four-year registration period. The subsequent 6 months of registration is a self-funded ‘writing-up’ period.
- You can’t work full time while receiving a PhD stipend.
If you wish to discuss this project further informally, please contact Dr Yu Yao.
How to apply
To apply, please click the ‘Online application’ link above. Please include the following documents with your application:
- CV / résumé
- Personal Statement (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project).
- Degree certificates and transcripts (please provide interim transcript if you are still studying).
- Contact information for two referees familiar with your academic work.
- If relevant, proof of English Language Competency (Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language with an IELTS Academic of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or equivalent).
Please also see here for a list of supporting documents to upload with your application.
For more information on the admissions process generally, please visit our How to Apply for a Research Degree webpage or contact the Doctoral College.
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 24 April 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview shortly thereafter. We regret that we may not be able to respond to all applications. Applicants who have not received a response within six weeks of the closing date should consider their application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council