AI-Enhanced Wake Control and Recovery in Floating Offshore Wind Farms
This research project will pioneer AI-enhanced aerodynamic strategies to control and recover wakes in floating offshore wind farms. Combining high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics with physics informed neural networks, the project aims to reduce wake losses, boost array efficiency, and deliver innovative design solutions for sustainable, high-performance offshore wind energy systems.
Research Opportunities
Summary
Wake interactions remain one of the most significant limitations on offshore wind farm efficiency, with downstream turbines experiencing substantial power losses and increased fatigue loading. In floating offshore wind farms, wake behaviour becomes even more complex due to platform motion, atmospheric variability, and dynamic inflow conditions. This PhD aims to develop innovative aerodynamic strategies to actively control and accelerate wake recovery using a combination of high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and advanced Artificial Intelligence techniques.
The research will investigate novel turbine and nacelle design concepts capable of reshaping near-wake structures to enhance downstream energy capture. High-resolution numerical simulations (LES modelling) will be used to characterise wake evolution under realistic offshore conditions. Floating platform motion will be incorporated to quantify its impact on wake stability and recovery.
A key innovation of the project is the integration of Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) and hybrid CFD–machine learning models to develop reduced-order predictive tools for rapid wake optimisation. These AI-driven models will embed governing flow physics while significantly reducing computational cost, enabling large-scale wind farm optimisation studies.
The student will gain expertise in advanced turbulence modelling, offshore wind aerodynamics, GPU accelerated computing, and physics-based machine learning. Expected outcomes include high-impact journal publications, development of novel wake-control concepts, and potential collaboration with offshore wind industry stakeholders.
This project is suitable for applicants with a strong background in mechanical, aerospace, renewable energy, or computational engineering. Experience with CFD software, programming (Python/MATLAB), and fluid dynamics is desirable. Candidates with interest in AI for engineering applications are particularly encouraged to apply.
Supervisor
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Research Theme
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About our Research Degrees
We welcome specific ideas from applicants for a potential research degree topic. The University offers a number of potential self-funded topics in each School which you could consider developing your research project around.
It is not unusual for a proposed research degree topic to evolve as you progress through the application stage and even your future studies. This ensures the best match of your academic/professional experience with that of your supervisory team.
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
If you need any further support prior to applying, please email researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master’s degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk to see if you are eligible.
English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2025/2026
UK Students
- Full time - £5,006 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £3,000 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £3,000 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £20,030 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £12,020 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £12,020 per academic year
For Academic Year 2024/2025
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,786 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,870 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,390 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £16,980 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £10,190 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £8,490 per academic year
Additional Costs
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Alumni Discount
Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from RGU.
Scholarships and Financial Awards
Postgraduate research students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees. However you may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Funded Studentships
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
How to Apply
Applications
All applications should be made via the University's online application for research students.
Before you apply, find out more about the application process, research proposal writing guides, routes and durations:
Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen RGU.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at RGU.
Find out more about the English language qualification we accept:
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