Position Overview

The School of Engineering at the University of Galway invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position in the field of machine learning-based ocean forecasting. The position, starting in April 2025, is funded by the Irish Marine Institute through the Cullen Fellowship Programme. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Stephen Nash and Dr. Tomasz Dabrowski (Marine Institute).

This PhD project will contribute to advancing ocean forecast models by exploring machine learning approaches to provide accurate, efficient, and computationally less expensive alternatives to traditional dynamic numerical models.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Academic Qualifications:
  • 1st class or 2.1 honours Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ocean Engineering, Computing, Civil/Coastal Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Skills and Knowledge:
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C++.
  • Strong knowledge of machine learning models, with experience preferred.
  • Familiarity with computational modelling for oceanographic or fluid dynamics problems.
  • Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and troubleshooting skills.
• Communication and Teamwork:
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a research team to achieve project objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Model Development:
   • Identify and evaluate suitable machine learning algorithms for ocean forecasting.
   • Develop and optimize machine learning-based ocean forecast models tailored to Irish waters.
2. Data Preparation and Testing:
   • Prepare training and testing datasets using existing dynamic ocean model data.
   • Train, test, and refine machine learning models for enhanced accuracy and efficiency.
3. Performance Benchmarking:
   • Compare the machine learning models against the Marine Institute’s current ROMS-based dynamic ocean forecast model.
4. Collaboration and Dissemination:
   • Collaborate with the Marine Modelling Group at the University of Galway and the ocean modelling unit at the Marine Institute.
   • Present research findings at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

What We Offer

• Financial Support:
  • Tax-free stipend of €25,000 per annum.
  • Coverage of university tuition fees.
  • Annual travel allowance of up to €3,000.
• Research Environment:
  • Access to cutting-edge facilities and resources at the University of Galway and the Marine Institute.
  • Opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in machine learning and ocean modelling.
• Professional Development:
  • Training in advanced computational modelling and machine learning techniques.
  • Opportunities to present research findings at prestigious conferences and contribute to impactful publications.

Application Process

• Deadline: Submit applications by 7 February 2025, 17:00 Irish Time.
• How to Apply:
  • Email the following documents to Dr. Stephen Nash with the subject title “Cullen PhD Fellowship 2025”:
    1. Cover letter detailing research interests and motivation.
    2. Curriculum vitae (CV).
    3. Statement of personal research interests.
    4. Contact details of two referees.