Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 June 2024
Campus
Launceston
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
Scholarship
$38,982pa for 3.5 years
About the research project
Fouling, which refers to the accumulation of organisms on the hulls of ships, such as algae, barnacles, and molluscs, can impact the operational efficiency and effectiveness of ships. As marine organisms attach to the hull surfaces, they create roughness, leading to increased drag and resistance in the water. This increased hydrodynamic drag provides reduced fuel efficiency, higher fuel consumption, and increased operating costs for naval fleets. Additionally, fouling can compromise vessels' sensor performance, manoeuvrability and speed, impacting their ability to respond to operational requirements and long-term viability.
The PhD candidate will work closely with the industry partner to develop a novel framework for fouling control strategies based on validated fleet health models and quantitative risk assessment of their operation.
The project will explore and develop innovative fouling control strategies and assess the environmental impact of the control strategies to ensure compliance with relevant ecological standards and regulations. Moreover, it aims to develop a framework for identifying cleaning and maintenance planning strategies based on the evaluated risks and associated costs.
The candidate will complete PhD candidature, including a minimum 12-month placement and industry training, during which time the student will be embedded with the industry partner team. The industry placement will enable the student to develop their networks and gain insight into the everyday research practices of an industry-leading, service-driven organisation.
Primary Supervisor
Meet A/Prof Vikram GaraniyaFunding
The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which provides:
- a living allowance stipend co-funded with ARC ITTC of $38,982 per annum (2024 rate, indexed annually) 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)
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Additional funding
If successful, applicants will also receive a top-up scholarship of $4,285 per annum for 3.5 years.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.
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:
- Australian Citizenship
- Eligible to gain an Australian Defence Clearance and meet International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR); Ability to provide a National Police Clearance obtained within the last 3 months; And potentially attain, and maintain, an Australian Security clearance level NV1 as determined under the Australian Government Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF). To check eligibility, please visit the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency Website
- Meet the University of Tasmania's PhD admission requirements – an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A, a Master Degree, or equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8), or evidence of equivalent research experience, such as refereed publications or significant experience as a lead researcher
- Scholarship recipients are expected to take up their studies as soon as practicable within a timeframe specified by the Office of Graduate Research in consultation with the industry partner, up to a maximum of 3 months from the time of acceptance of the scholarship. In exceptional circumstances and with approval of the industry partner (BAE Systems Maritime Australia) and the University, this time may be extended to 6 month
- Any other eligibility criteria relevant to the industry partner/research project (e.g. have or able to apply for a National Police Criminal History Check)
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
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:
- A First-Class Honours degree/master's degree in engineering or science with specialisations in material science, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, maritime engineering or other environmental sampling/analysis
- Experience in material science, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, maritime engineering or other environmental sampling/analysis is preferred
- Experience in statistical/probabilistic modelling
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Applicants must have in-depth knowledge of offshore structures and safety engineering
- Interest in working with an industry partner in the defence sector
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact A/Prof Vikram Garaniya 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 June 2024.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.
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.
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