Application of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Oil and Gas Production Systems

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 application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in petroleum production systems presents an opportunity to transform the industry by addressing complex challenges and improving operational efficiency. This PhD research will explore how AI can be broadly applied across various production systems to optimize performance, enhance decision-making, and ensure flow assurance. The focus will be on integrating AI-driven solutions into the entire spectrum of production activities, from reservoir management to surface facilities, fostering innovation in a traditionally conservative industry.

AI technologies offer the potential to revolutionise production systems by enabling real-time analysis, predictive capabilities, and adaptive control. In petroleum production, where systems are often complex and operate under dynamic conditions, AI can provide significant benefits by optimising production processes, identifying inefficiencies, and predicting potential issues before they escalate. This research will aim to develop comprehensive AI models that address key production challenges, such as managing multiphase flow, optimizing artificial lift methods, and ensuring equipment reliability. By employing machine learning and advanced analytics, the project will explore how AI can streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance production rates in diverse and challenging environments.

This PhD project will provide a comprehensive investigation into the role of AI in modernising petroleum production systems. By focusing on the broad applications of AI, the research will offer insights into how these technologies can be harnessed to create more efficient, sustainable, and resilient production systems. This study is particularly relevant for students from oil-producing regions, equipping them with cutting-edge knowledge and skills to lead the industry into a more technologically advanced future.

Decisions will be based on academic merit. The successful applicant should have, or expect to obtain, a UK Honours Degree at 2.1 (or equivalent) in Engineering (Fluid Mechanics, Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Oil and Gas Engineering) or Chemistry along with sufficient research background and previous experience.

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 title on 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 R Rafati at roozbeh.rafati@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.