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Deadline: 06 July 2026
Wales
Open to: UK and international applicants
The funding providers: Faculty of Science and Engineering and D-Tech (UK) Ltd
The subject areas: Nonlinear Dynamics / Vibration Attenuation
The Project start dates: October 2026
** (Please see the note below regarding potential later start dates.)
** In exceptional circumstances, and subject to the discretion of the University and/or the relevant funding body, a deferral of offer may be granted to the next available enrolment period. Such deferral will typically not exceed a duration of three calendar months from the originally stipulated commencement date. Please note that only one deferral may be considered, and any such deferral is not guaranteed.
Supervisors:
Aligned programme of study: Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D
Mode of study: Full-time
Place of study: Swansea University (Bay Campus)
Project Description:
The project starts with a literature review on shock and vibration mitigation techniques in rotary steerable tools and similar downhole systems to establish the current state of the art and identify knowledge gaps. The project involves both linear and nonlinear dynamics modelling and analysis, as well as experimental testing. An equivalent test structure will first be constructed in the vibration laboratory at Swansea University. This demonstrator will closely replicate the industrial structure to ensure the relevance of the research undertaken in this PhD study. A major aspect of the work is the development of optimal passive mitigation solutions through the enhancement of components such as elastomers. These elements will be selected and optimised to absorb and isolate shock and vibration while remaining functional under harsh geothermal conditions. The candidate is expected to work closely with D-TECH and may undertake a secondment period to test and apply the developed methods on industrial-scale structures. This highly interdisciplinary project combines mechanical engineering, materials science, and control systems, and will require both numerical simulation and experimental validation. The outcomes of this research aim to significantly enhance the reliability, efficiency, and operational lifespan of RSTs in geothermal applications, thereby supporting the advancement of sustainable energy technologies.
Funding Duration: 3 Years
Applications may be submitted in Welsh and any application submitted in Welsh will be treated no less favourably than an application submitted in English. Please refer to the University’s Welsh Language Policy on Awarding Grants
PhD: Applicants for PhD must hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) in Engineering or similar relevant science discipline.
IELTS 6.5 Overall (5.5+ each comp.) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here.
UK and International applicants
International Students – Fully funded if the applicant is successful in being offered a SUIPRES Scholarship as outlined below.
Swansea University is pleased to offer the Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarship (SUIPRES). This is a competitively awarded Scholarship open to overseas PhD and Professional Doctorate applicants eligible for the international rate of tuition fees who can demonstrate excellence in academic achievement.
The SUIPRES Scholarship covers the difference between the International and the Home tuition fee for the duration of the PhD/Professional Doctorate programme. Successful candidates will be charged fees aligned to the UK rate per year. The scholarship will be offset against your tuition fee liability
All International applications will be considered for a SUIPRES Scholarship. You will be informed whether a SUIPRES Scholarship will be offered within your offer letter.
This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate
(£20,780 for 2025/26). - July 2026
(£21,805 for 2026/27) - October 2026 onwards
Additional research expenses of up to £1,000 per year will also be available.
Open to: UK and international applicants
Note for applicants holding international and/or European qualifications: details of how your qualification compares to the published academic entry requirements can be found on our Country Specific Entry Requirements page.
If you have questions regarding your academic eligibility based on the above, email [email protected] with the link to the scholarships you are interested in.
Please note that the programme requires some applicants to hold ATAS clearance, further details on ATAS scheme eligibility are available on the UK Government website.
ATAS clearance IS NOT required to be held as part of the scholarship application process. Successful award winners (as appropriate) are provided with details as to how to apply for ATAS clearance in tandem with a scholarship course offer.
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