PhD Electrical and Electronic Engineering: Advanced Wireless Power Transfer Technologies for Offshore Renewable Energy Systems

University of Plymouth

Director of Studies (DoS): Dr. Yu Yao (yu.yao@plymouth.ac.uk, tel.: +447756140668)

2nd Supervisor: Dr. Maozhou Meng (maozhou.meng@plymouth.ac.uk)

Applications are invited for a 3.5-year EPSRC funded UDLA PhD studentship. The studentship will start on 1st 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 (yu.yao@plymouth.ac.uk).

To apply for this position please click on the Apply button above.

Please see here for a list of supporting documents to upload with your application.

For more information on the admissions process generally, please contact research.degree.admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

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.