Research

Current studentships

Application of AI in monitoring hydrogen pipelines

Deadline: 29/11/2024 5:00PM
Studentship code: RDS
Staff name: Dr Sina Rezaei Gomari
Research centre: Centre for Sustainable Engineering
Start date: Successful applicants will be expected to start March 2025.

The School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies at Teesside University in collaboration with the Tshwane University of Technology AI Hub in South Africa invites applications for a full-time PhD studentship in the application of AI in monitoring hydrogen pipelines.

Hydrogen, as a clean and efficient energy carrier, holds immense potential for reducing carbon emissions. However, the low viscosity and highly flammable nature of hydrogen necessitates stringent safety measures, particularly in its transport through pipelines. This PhD position focuses on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the monitoring and safety of hydrogen pipelines, addressing critical aspects of this emerging infrastructure.

The research will be structured around three core pillars.

First, an experimental investigation will be conducted to study hydrogen leaks from pipelines under controlled laboratory conditions. This will involve performing various leak scenarios to gather detailed data on leak characteristics and behaviour. Second, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling will be employed to further understand the mechanisms and parameters affecting hydrogen leaks. This modelling will provide insights into the dynamics of hydrogen flow and dispersion, aiding in the development of more accurate predictive models. Third, machine learning (ML) techniques will be implemented to detect and characterise leaks in real-time. By analysing vast datasets from numerical and experimental studies, ML algorithms can identify patterns and anomalies that signify potential leaks, enabling prompt and efficient responses.

This interdisciplinary research will integrate experimental, computational, and AI-driven approaches to create a comprehensive pipeline monitoring system. The successful candidate will collaborate with experts in AI, engineering, and energy systems, utilising state-of-the-art facilities and datasets.

You should have a strong background in fluid mechanics and dynamics, and experience in CDF modelling, along with the ability to develop skills in analytical data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning technologies.

This project will involve international collaboration with Tshwane University of Technology AI Hub, working closely with the research teams led by Professor Anish Kurien and Dr Coneth Richards. Opportunities for spending time at TUT will be explored. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to work at Teesside University’s newly established Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre (NZIIC). The Centre has fully equipped laboratories for CCUS, H2 innovation, smart energy integration and modelling, and circular economy.

You will be supported in presenting research outcomes at review meetings, disseminating results at international conferences, and publishing peer-reviewed journal papers.

Funding eligibility

This fully-funded PhD studentship covers tuition fees for the period of a full-time PhD registration of up to four years and provides an annual tax-free stipend of £18,622 for three years, subject to satisfactory progress.

Applications are welcome from UK and international students.

Entry requirements

You should hold or expect to obtain a good honours degree (2:1 or above) in a relevant discipline, such as chemical and petroleum process/engineering, mechanical engineering, or renewable/industrial engineering, or electrical engineering. A solid understanding of the engineering applications of artificial intelligence, particularly in energy transition, hydrogen generation, and transportation, and prediction is essential. While a master's level qualification in a relevant discipline is desirable, it is not mandatory.

We are looking for candidates who are self-motivated, possess strong communication skills for effective interaction with the academic community and stakeholders, and have a keen interest in industrial research.

International students will be subject to the standard entry criteria relating to English language ability, ATAS clearance and, when relevant, UK visa requirements and procedures.

How to apply

Applicants should apply online for this opportunity using the Online Application (Funded PHD) application form. When asked to specify funding select “other” and enter ‘RDS’ and the title of the PhD project that you are applying for. You should ensure that you clearly indicate that you are applying for a Funded Studentship and the title of the topic or project on the proposal that you will need to upload when applying. To apply for more than one project, you need to complete a further application form and specify the relevant title for each application to a topic or project.

Applications for studentships that do not clearly indicate that the application is for a Funded Studentship and state the title of the project applied for on the proposal may mean that your application may not be considered for the appropriate funding.

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Selection process

All applications received by the closing date will be considered. Successful applicants at the application stage will be shortlisted and contacted to arrange an interview. All interviews will be held online. Unsuccessful applicants will be contacted to confirm that the application will not be progressed. After interview, all interviewed applicants will be contacted to inform them of the outcome. Successful applicants progressing to an offer of a place, to commence in March 2025.

About Teesside

We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive campus and to supporting all members of our University community to thrive whatever their age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, marital status, nationality or any other characteristic.
More about our Inclusive campus

As a Teesside University research student, you will join a growing and dynamic research community, allowing you to share your experiences, insight and inspiration with fellow researchers. You will benefit from our academic expertise and be supported through a strong programme of research training. You will be offered opportunities and support at each stage of your research degree. Our research is designed to have impact, and to influence policy and practice within our region, the UK and beyond. We work with external organisations to anticipate and respond to research needs, and to put our research into practice in sectors as diverse as the arts, engineering, healthcare and computing. PhD students are encouraged to work with their supervisors to explore the potential impact of their work.

The successful candidate will be expected to participate fully in research group and centre activities, including training sessions and workshops, and will become a member of the University’s wider postgraduate research community. Mentoring and support will be provided for the development of a strong academic and professional CV during the PhD.

Academic enquiries

For academic enquiries, please contact s.rezaei-gomari@tees.ac.uk.

For administrative enquiries before or when making your application, contact research.enquiries@tees.ac.uk.

After an application has been made, please contact research.admissions@tees.ac.uk.

Key dates

Deadline: 29/11/2024 5:00PM
Interview date: We envisage that interviews will take place in December 2024.
Start date: Successful applicants will be expected to start March 2025.