Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 April 2025
Campus
Launceston
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
Scholarship
$35,000pa for 3.5 years
About the research project
The Seafisher is a novel offshore aquaculture structure being developed by the BECRC to produce finfish in the offshore environment. It is unique in concept as the structure is designed to depth-cycle during severe storms in order to improve the systems survivability. Currently, the Seafisher's station-keeping system is based on a compliant single point mooring which allows the fish pen to adapt its position to the surrounding environment. While this mooring configuration offers many advantages, it requires a substantial aquaculture lease to ensure the Seafisher can yaw about its anchor unobstructed. However, recent challenges associated with social licence and marine spatial planning issues suggest that offshore aquaculture companies may need to minimise the spatial footprint of their operations.
This PhD project looks to extend the Seafisher concept by systematically exploring the effect of various mooring configurations on the systems global performance and survivability. The primary methodology of this work involves scale model hydrodynamic experimentation of various mooring designs within the experimental facilities at the Australian Maritime College, University of Tasmania. The candidate will also utilise numerical tools that would be validated using the experimental works conducted to yield further insights into alternative mooring solutions that look to reduce the spatial requirements associated with the current single point mooring.
Upon completion, this work will provide BECRC industry and research partners with objective data and recommendations relevant to mooring selection for advanced offshore aquaculture systems like the Seafisher.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which provides:
- a living allowance stipend co-funded by BECRC of $35,000 per annum for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
- Applicants must be from at least one of the following disciplinary backgrounds:
- Ocean Engineering
- Maritime Engineering
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Applicants must have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement through award of Honours or Masters' degree with research experience in Maritime Engineering, Hydrodynamics or related fields
- The degree must be undertaken on a full-time basis
- Applicants should have experience in scaled experimental hydrodynamic modelling
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Applicants should have experience in numerical modelling using maritime hydrodynamic software
- Some proficiency in data analysis using Matlab / Python
- The position is available to Australian and non-Australian citizens
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Damon Howe to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 April 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
Apply now Explore other projects
Why the University of Tasmania?
Worldwide reputation for research excellence
Quality supervision and support
