Resilient design of submerged infrastructure under complex hydrodynamic conditions

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Gustavo de Almeida and Dr Sergio Maldonado

This project investigates hydrodynamic interactions between environmental flows, submerged infrastructure, and sediments to enhance the resilience of critical structures such as bridge piers and offshore energy foundations. Using large-scale laboratory experiments and advanced analysis, the research aims to inform sustainable, cost-effective and efficient design for complex environmental conditions.

Climate-driven changes in rivers, estuaries, and coastal environments are intensifying hydrodynamic loads on submerged infrastructure, increasing risks of damage, scour, and reduced performance. This project will explore the fundamental interactions between flow, turbulence, and sediment transport around submerged structures, with the goal of developing new, resilient design methods for sustainable engineering applications.

You'll perform large-scale physical experiments in the University of Southampton’s world-leading hydraulic laboratory, enabling the study of flow–structure–sediment dynamics under controlled but realistic environmental conditions. High-resolution measurements of turbulence, forces, and sediment motion will provide insights into the mechanisms driving structural loading and morphological change. Complementary numerical or theoretical analysis may be undertaken to extend the experimental findings and support generalisation.

You'll receive training in experimental fluid mechanics, instrumentation, and data analysis, as well as access to modules in applied mathematics, engineering, and computer science (including advanced machine-learning techniques). Close supervision from an experienced team will ensure strong technical and professional development. You'll join a vibrant community of researchers in the School of Engineering and benefit from access to world-class facilities, including one of the UK’s fastest supercomputing resources.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in Engineering or Physics. A strong background and enthusiasm for fluid mechanics and hydraulics is essential.

Fees and funding

A 3.5-year studentship covering tuition fees and competitive stipend may be awarded to outstanding applicants.

We also offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.

Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.

Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.

Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)