Advanced Modelling of Nonlinear Engineering Systems: AI-Integrated Approaches

About the Project

These projects are open to students worldwide, but have no funding attached. Therefore, the successful applicant will be expected to fund tuition fees at the relevant level (home or international) and any applicable additional research costs. Please consider this before applying.

The real world is inherently nonlinear, particularly in mechanical systems where nonlinearities arise from factors such as system geometry, material interactions, and nonlinear elements like stiffness, damping, and friction. These nonlinearities often lead to complex and unpredictable behaviours, including instabilities, limit cycles, and chaotic dynamics, which pose significant challenges in engineering applications. Recent advances in nonlinear dynamics, combined with computational techniques such as AI and ML, offer new possibilities for developing sophisticated models to understand and predict the behaviour of such systems.

This project focuses on the development of advanced modelling techniques for nonlinear systems, aiming to provide accurate and reliable representations of their dynamics. While traditional modelling approaches will form the foundation, the project might explore the application of AI/ML methods to enhance the predictive capabilities and adaptability of these models. Experimental validation will be a key component, involving laboratory-based testing to compare and refine models against real-world system behaviours.

The project will encompass one or more case studies on diverse dynamical systems, potentially including renewable energy systems like floating wind turbines, self-balancing robots, or other systems selected at the project's onset.

A successful candidate will join the interdisciplinary Centre for Applied Dynamic Research (CADR) at the School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen. They will have access to leading experts in the field and cutting-edge laboratory facilities, supporting a robust integration of theoretical development, computational methods, and experimental investigations.

Candidates must have a strong academic background in Electrical / Mechanical / Mechatronics Engineering, Applied Physics / Mathematics can apply. Candidates with a solid 2-1 at honours level degree in these disciplines will also be considered if they can show adequate competence in the underlying concepts.

Familiarity with any two of the following subject areas is required:

i. Mathematical modelling of systems

ii. System kinematics and dynamics

iii. Nonlinear dynamics

Candidates must be competent with MATLAB and SIMULINK and / or similar mathematical software.

Application Procedure:

Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php.

You should apply for PhD in Engineering to ensure your application is passed to the correct team for processing.

Please clearly note the name of the lead supervisor and project titleon the application form. If you do not include these details, it may not be considered for the studentship.

Your application must include: A personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.

Please note: you do not need to provide a research proposal with this application.

Informal enquiries can be made by contacting Dr V Vaziri at vahid.vaziri@abdn.ac.uk

If you require any additional assistance in submitting your application or have any queries about the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us at researchadmissions@abdn.ac.uk

Funding Notes

This is a self-funding project open to students worldwide. Our typical start dates for this programme are February or October.

Fees for this programme can be found here Finance and Funding | Study Here | The University of Aberdeen

Additional research costs / bench fees may also apply and will be discussed prior to any offer being made.