Folúntais

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time, 4-year PhD scholarship in the area of machine learning-based ocean forecasting starting in April 2025. The successful candidate will be based in the Civil Engineering in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Galway, Ireland.

The position is funded by the Irish Marine Institute through the Cullen Fellowship Programme. The candidate will be co-supervised by Dr Stephen Nash (University of Galway) and Dr Tomasz Dabrowski (Marine Institute).

University of Galway

Located in the vibrant cultural city of Galway in the west of Ireland, the University of Galway has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence.

For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie

Detailed Project Description.

The aim of this project is to investigate the potential for machine learning-based ocean forecast models. Ocean forecast models provide forecasts of ocean variables such as sea surface height (SSH), temperature, salinity and currents and thus play a significant role in human marine activities and the protection of marine and coastal communities. Currently, dynamic, process-based numerical models are used for ocean forecasting, but they are complex and computationally expensive.

The Marine Institute currently produces daily 3-day ocean forecasts for Irish waters using the dynamic ocean model ROMS (the Regional Ocean Modelling System) which covers a domain measuring approx. 1,500 x 2,200 km using a mean horizontal resolution of 1.9 km and 40 terrain-following vertical layers. It produces forecasts of ocean temperature, salinity, sea level and currents. Due to its size and high spatial resolution (circa 1 km near the Irish coastline), the model is very computationally expensive. Recent literature shows that machine learning models can provide an alternative to traditional dynamic numerical models, potentially achieving higher accuracy and shorter run-times.

This PhD will focus primarily on the development of a machine learning-based ocean forecast model for Irish waters and benchmark its performance against Marine Institute’s current dynamic ocean forecast model. The candidate’s duties will therefore include identification of appropriate machine learning algorithms, preparation of training and testing datasets,  training, testing and optimisation of machine learning models and benchmarking of model performance.

The candidate is expected to have a great ability of self-learning, very good teamwork skills and to be self-motivated. The candidate should have great interest in computational modelling and computer programming as well as a good background in machine learning. An interest in ocean modelling is also desirable. The candidate will be part of the Marine Modelling Group at University of Galway and will also work closely with staff from the ocean modelling unit in Marine Institute.

Living allowance (Stipend): €25,000 per annum, [scholarship award]

University fees: Covered by the scholarship in addition to stipend

Travel Allowance: up to €3,000 per annum

Start date: 7^th April, 2025

Academic Entry Requirements: 1^st class or 2.1 honours Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ocean Engineering, Computing or a closely related discipline (e.g. civil or coastal engineering). Candidates must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and a strong passion and motivation for research excellence, with a view to publication of their work in scientific journals and at international conferences. Candidates must also possess excellent project management skills and be motivated to work within a team to achieve overall project objectives.

Some specific requirements include:

• Knowledge of computer programming (using such as C++, Python etc.)
• Knowledge of, and ideally experience working with, machine learning models
• Knowledge of (and ideally experience with) computational modelling for oceanographic or fluid dynamics problems
• Problem-solving, critical thinking and troubleshooting skills.

To Apply for the Scholarship: Expressions of interest comprising submission of a covering letter, CV, statement of personal research interests, and the contact details of two referees, to be submitted via e-mail to stephen.nash@universityofgalway.ie with the subject title Cullen PhD Fellowship 2025.

Contact Name: Dr Stephen Nash

Contact Email: stephen.nash@universityofgalway.ie  

Application Deadline: 7^th February, 2025 at 17:00

Primary Supervisor name: Dr Stephen Nash (with Dr Tomasz Dabrowski of Marine Institute.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time funded PhD scholarships starting in March 2025 affiliated to the College of Science & Engineering / School of Biological & Chemical Sciences / Ryan Institute at the University of Galway.

University of Galway

Located in the vibrant cultural city of Galway in the west of Ireland, the University of Galway has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence

For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie

Detailed Project Description Agriculture in Ireland is an important source of greenhouse gas (GHG) and ammonia emissions. The sector is obligated to achieve a 25% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030, and to reduce ammonia emissions. Dairy farming accounts for around 15% of national GHG emissions, but makes an important contribution to economic growth, particularly in rural areas. Future growth is challenged by the need to meet national emissions reduction targets. We have designed and tested a system of milk production that substantially lowers the GHG and ammonia footprints of milk production, whilst maintaining productivity and profitability. The objective of this scholarship is to investigate the implementation of this low-emission system on commercial dairy farms in terms of environmental footprints and farm profitability. The student will have access to state-of-the-art models and a unique data set on real-world performance of innovative low-emission practices. This work will support development of a blueprint for low-emission pasture-based dairy systems that will deliver impact across the commercial dairy production and climate policy. 

The successful candidate should be highly self-motivated and be prepared for laboratory work, life cycle assessment (LCA) and economic evaluation of farm data using MS Excel and LCA software, and fieldwork with modern analytical equipment. Fluent English language skills and a full EU driving licence are essential.

Living allowance (Stipend): €25,000 per annum, [tax-exempt scholarship award]

University fees: €6000 per annum

Start date: 01/03/2025 (or as soon as possible thereafter)

Academic Entry Requirements: First or 2.1 Honours) or M.Sc. in an appropriate discipline (Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, etc.).

To Apply for the Scholarship: email james.humphreys@teagasc.ie

Contact Name: Dr David Styles, University of Galway  

Contact Email: David.styles@universityofgalway.ie

Application Deadline: 02 /02 /2025 and time [23:59] (Irish time 24hr format)

Primary Supervisor name: David Styles

Application is invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time funded PhD scholarship starting in May 2025, or sooner, affiliated to the Biomolecular Electronics Research Laboratory, School of Biological & Chemical Sciences at the University of Galway.

University of Galway

Located in the vibrant cultural city of Galway in the west of Ireland, the University of Galway has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence

For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie

Detailed Project Description

The successful candidate will undertake training and research on ‘Enzyme Electrodes for Detection of Clinical Analytes’.

The Biomolecular Electronics Research Laboratory, Director Prof. Dónal Leech, was established in the University of Galway in 1997. Research in the laboratory focuses on preparation and characterisation of electron-transfer catalysts and modified electrode surfaces directed to eventual application as sensors and fuel cell electrodes. Information about research in the Biomolecular Electronics Research Laboratory is available at:

https://www.universityofgalway.ie/our-research/people/biological-chemical-sciences/donalleech/

This funded research programme seeks to develop and implement next-generation technologies for production of electrochemical enzyme-based devices applicable to detection of clinical analytes in body fluids. The programme builds on previous research in the laboratory and will involve developing approaches for improved sensing of glucose, lactate and other clinical biomarkers. The initial research focuses on synthesis of metal complexes, polymers, and redox polymers and characterisation of their application as mediators of enzyme electron transfer and as protective coatings for enzyme electrodes.

Living allowance (Stipend): €25,000 per annum, tax-exempt scholarship award, for a maximum period of 4-years.

University fees: Covered as part of the scholarship, apart from an annual student levy (currently €140 per annum)

Start date: May 2025, or as soon as possible.

Academic Entry Requirements:

• BSc Degree (minimum 2.1 or equivalent) and/or Master in Chemistry, or related area
• High level of spoken and written English and good communication skills.
• Experience of using electrochemical methods

To Apply for the Scholarship:

Expressions of interest comprising submission of a covering letter, CV, statement of personal research interests, evidence of performance, and experience of electrochemistry, at BSc and MSc or equivalent and the contact details of two referees, to be submitted via e-mail to Professor Dónal Leech.

Use ‘BERL PhD 2025 in the e-mail subject.

Contact Name: Professor Dónal Leech

Contact Email: donal.leech@universityofgalway.ie

Application Deadline: 7th February 2025 [17:00] (Irish time 24hr format)

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time funded PhD scholarship starting in September 2025 affiliated to the College of Science and Engineering, School of Engineering, within the Biomedical Engineering discipline at the University of Galway.

University of Galway

Located in the vibrant cultural city of Galway in the west of Ireland, the University of Galway has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence

For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie

Detailed Project Description

This project will utilize a combination of computer simulations, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology to develop novel bio-inspired materials and self-assembly systems for biomedical applications. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to impactful research within a vibrant and supportive research environment. This PhD position is offered within the University of Galway's renowned Biomedical Engineering program, known for its excellence in bridging theoretical concepts with real-world applications.

Living allowance (Stipend): €25,000 per annum (tax-exempt scholarship award)

University fees: Waived

Start date: 1^st September 2025

Academic Entry Requirements:

1. A master’s degree (preferred) in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or a related discipline.
2. Strong academic record with demonstrated ability to conduct independent research.
3. Excellent written and communication skills.

To Apply for the Scholarship:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts to:

Dr. Xuliang Qian at xuliang.qian@universityofgalway.ie

Candidates are also encouraged to explore external funding opportunities, such as:

• Hardiman Research Scholarship (deadline 07 / 02 / 2025):

https://www.universityofgalway.ie/hardiman-scholarships/

• China Scholarship Council (CSC) Joint Scholarship:

https://www.universityofgalway.ie/global-galway/studyinireland/yourcountry/china/#tab5

• Additional funding options may be available here:

https://www.universityofgalway.ie/science-engineering/scholarships/#tab2

Contact Name: Dr. Xuliang Qian

Contact Email: xuliang.qian@universityofgalway.ie

Application Deadline: 07 / 03 / 2025 and time 00:00 (Irish time 24hr format)

Primary Supervisor name: Dr. Xuliang Qian