PhD - End-of-Life Strategies for Diverse Onshore Wind Portfolios

University of Strathclyde

PhD in the EnerHy CDT which is an EPSRC-funded Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) focusing on research and training in the areas of Renewable Energy and Hydrogen. The University of Strathclyde leads the wind/renewable energy training and research elements of the CDT programme. Funded by ESB and EPSRC, this 4 year PhD studentship, at the University of Strathclyde is in the area of structural or mechanical engineering, specifically on end of life and life extension analysis for wind farms. The role is for the third intake of the EnerHy programme which commences in October 2026.

Research project overview:

This PhD research opportunity focuses on developing practical decision-support strategies for managing the end-of-life (EoL) of diverse onshore wind portfolios, addressing the growing challenge faced by operators as early wind farms approach or exceed their original design lifetimes. The successful candidate will investigate the technical and economic considerations associated with different EoL pathways, including lifetime extension, targeted component upgrades, partial repowering, full repowering, decommissioning, and asset recycling, drawing on real-world wind farm data and asset management practices. The research will explore factors such as remaining useful life of key components, turbine loading and structural integrity, regulatory constraints, supply-chain considerations, and evolving market conditions, ultimately developing a practical workflow or decision-support framework that helps wind portfolio owners optimise long-term value while managing operational, technical, and commercial risks.

Entry Requirements and further details:

This 4 year fully funded studentship is open to applicants with a first-class or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical/Structural Engineering, Physics or other relevant areas.

Overseas/EU: Applications accepted until 30th June 2026.

Home/UK: Applications accepted until all places are filled.

Programme package and funding

The studentship is for 4 years full-time, is fully funded with tuition fees at the UK rate covered and provides a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per annum. Additionally, £3,000 per annum is provided for consumables, travel, etc.

Our EnerHy PhD Studentship packages includes:

• All PhD tuition fees paid.
• A tax-free stipend at UKRI rates to cover living costs.
• A substantial Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) each year to support travel, training and consumables costs.
• Additional funding to support outreach and development.

Please apply by submitting your CV, cover letter and transcripts to j.carroll@strath.ac.uk and drew.smith@strath.ac.uk