PhD Candidate in Deep Learning Enhanced FSI analysis of Modular Floating Structures

The Department of Marine Technology has a vacancy for a PhD Candidate in Deep Learning Enhanced FSI analysis of Modular Floating Structures

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Would you like to work at the intersection of artificial intelligence and offshore engineering contributing to the next generation of intelligent floating structures The Department of Marine Technology at NTNU has a vacancy for a PhD Candidate in Deep Learning enhanced FSI modelling of Multi-modular Floating Structures. The position is part of the AIMOS project (Artificial Intelligence for Multiscale Offshore Structures) which develops integrated AI methods for the analysis design monitoring and control of floating offshore systems.

Multi-modular floating structures are emerging as a promising solution for scalable offshore applications where conventional fixed-bottom systems are impractical. These systems consist of multiple interconnected modules subjected to waves current and mooring loads resulting in highly nonlinear coupled hydrodynamic and structural behaviors. High-fidelity CFD-FEA based FSI simulations provide valuable insight but remain computationally expensive for large design spaces long-duration simulations and real-time applications. This PhD project will develop physics-informed deep learning and surrogate modelling approaches to accelerate simulation uncertainty quantification structural response prediction and digital twin capabilities using data generated from high fidelity CFD-FEA simulations experiments and field measurements. The position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research with strong relevance to offshore renewable energy and marine infrastructure.

Your immediate leader will be the Head of Department.

• Take courses in relevant technical topics comprising a minimum of 30 ECTS.
• Conduct coupled CFDFEM (e.g. STARCCM-ABAQUS) simulation of wave-induced motions connector loads mooring loads and structural deformation. This may be extended to include potential flow theory based modelling as well.
• Develop deep learning surrogate models for fast prediction of motions stresses and loads
• Validate the deep learning model using numerical simulations experiments data and field measurements.
• Analyse the dynamic behavior of modular floating structures including connector loads load redistribution resonance effects inter-module coupling and response under varying sea states.
• Collaborate with other PhD candidates in AIMOS project working with intelligent control and smart materials.
• Write scientific articles in high quality journals and present results in conferences

Be prepared for changes to your work duties after employment.

• You must have a relevant masters degree in marine technology civil engineering mechanical engineeringapplied mathematicsorequivalent. Your course of study must correspond to a five-year Norwegian course where 120 credits have been obtained at masters level.
• You must have a strong academic background from your previous studies and have an average grade from your Masters degree study or equivalent education which is equal to B or better compared toNTNUs grading scale. If you do not have letter grades from previous studies you must have an equally good academic foundation. If you have a weaker grade background you may be considered if you can document that you are particularly suitable for a PhD education.
• You must meet the requirements for admission to thefacultys doctoral program( good English skills (both written and spoken)
• Applicants from non-English speaking countries outside Europe must present an official language test report. The acceptable tests are TOEFL IELTS and Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) or Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE).Minimum scores are:
  • TOEFL: 600 / writing 4.5 (paper-based) or 92 / writing 22 (internet-based)
  • IELTS: 6.5 with no section lower than 5.5 (only Academic IELTS test accepted)
  • CAE/CPE: grade B or A.

PLEASE NOTE: For detailed information about what the application must contain see paragraph About the application.

The appointment is to be made in accordance withNTNUs guidelines for recruitment positions for general criteria for the position.

• Strong background in marine offshore or structural engineering disciplines including structural mechanics hydrodynamics and machine learning
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or MATLAB
• Experience with scientific computing CFD/FEM software potential flow theory or machine learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch TensorFlow).
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English.

To complete a doctoral degree (PhD) it is important that you are able to:

• Highly motivated and interest-driven to explore complex scientific and engineering problems
• Work independently and in structured way as well as collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.
• Communicate effectively and present and discuss your research with other professionals
• Get involved and contribute constructively with feedback
• Work constructively under pressure or in the face of adversity
• Be flexible and open to adjusting the plan for the project as needed

Emphasis will be placed on personal qualities.

• An exciting job with an importantmission in society
• Developing tasks in a strong and international professional environment
• Career guidance andfollow-up during the PhD period
• Open and inclusive working environment with committed colleagues
• Working capitalthat can be used to implement the project
• Favourable terms as a member of theNorwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK)

As a PhD Candidate at NTNU you will have access toemployee benefits.

Diversity is a strength and at NTNU we aim to be an employer that reflects the diversity in society and that makes use of the potential of the populations collective skills. Our vision isKnowledge for a better worldandour values are creative critical constructive and respectful. We believe that an organization that is equal diverse and gender-balanced is essential for us to achieve our goals.

We strive to attract employees with different skills life experiences and perspectives to contribute to even better problem solving of our societal mission in research and education.

If you think this position is relevant and interesting we encourage you to apply regardless of gender functional ability and cultural background or whether you have been out of work for a period of time.

At NTNU we want to increase the proportion of women in scientific positions. We have a number ofmeasures to promote equality.

In the position of PhD Candidate code 1017 your gross salary will normally be NOK 550 800- per annum depending on qualifications and seniority. A 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund is deducted from the salary.

The employment period is3 years for the doctoral work in addition to 4 months/year of teaching assistance.

For employment as a PhD Candidate it is a prerequisite that you gain admission to the PhD programme inEngineeringwithinthree months of your employment contract start date and that you participate in an organized doctoral programme throughout the period of employment.

As an employee at NTNU it is important that you keep yourself up to date with academic and organizational changes and adapt to them.

For the necessary professional and social interaction it is a prerequisite that you are physically present and available to the institution on a daily basis.

The appointment is carried out in accordance with the principles of theState Employees Act andExport control (legislation that regulates the export of knowledge technology and services). Candidates who after assessment of the application and attachments are considered to be in conflict with the criteria in the latter act will not be able to be employed.

The attachments (including a description of your scientific work) must accompany the application as these documents form the basis of the application assessment. The documents must be in Norwegian/a Scandinavian language or English.

Please note: the application will only be assessed on the basis of the information we have received by the application deadline. Therefore make sure that your application clearly shows how your skills and experience meet the criteria described above. The application and all attachments must be sent electronically via . If you are invited to an interview you must bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas upon request.

The application must include:

• Transcripts and diplomas for Bachelors and Masters degrees
• CV
• Copy of Masters thesis. If you have recently submitted your Masters thesis you can attach a draft of the thesis. Documentation of a completed Masters degree must be presented before taking up the position.
• Project outline containing proposals for an overall description of research questions theoretical perspectives methodological design for the project and progress plan (maximum 1500 words/4 pages)
• Short letter of motivation (400 words/1 page)
• Possibly publications etc. other relevant research work
• Names and contact information of three relevant referees

If all or parts of your education has been taken abroad we also ask you to attach documentation of the scope and quality of your entire education both Bachelors and Masters education in addition to other higher education. If your institution uses diploma supplement (normal for most European institutions) you must attach this. A description of the documentation required can also be foundhere. If you already have a statement fromNorwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (HK-dir) please attach this as well.

Joint work will be considered. If it is difficult to identify your contribution to joint work you must attach a brief description of your participation.

When assessing the best qualified we emphasize necessary qualifications such as education experience and personal suitability. Motivation for the position ambitions and potential for research will also count when assessing the candidates.

NTNU recognizes a wide range of academic contributions and has committed itself to The San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment andCoARA (responsible assessment of research and recognition of a greater breadth of academic contributions in accordance with NTNUs social mission).

A public list of applicants with name age job title and municipality of residence is prepared after the application deadline. If you wish to be exempt from entry on the public applicant list this must be justified. Assessment will be made in accordance withcurrent legislation. You will be notified if the exemption is not granted.

If you think this position looks interesting and in line with your qualifications you are welcome to apply.

If you have any questions about the position please contactAssociate Professor Zhaolong Yu telephone If you have any questions about the recruitment process please contact Maria Hjertner

Application deadline: 25.09.2026

For practical information aboutworking at NTNU please visit this webpage.

The city of Trondheim is a modern European city with a rich cultural is the tech capital of Norway with a population of Norwegian welfare state including healthcare schools kindergartens and overall equality is probably the best of its kind in the world. Professional subsidized day-care for children is easily available. Furthermore Trondheim offers great opportunities for education (including international schools) and possibilities to enjoy nature culture and family life and has low crime rates and clean air quality.

NTNU - knowledge for a better world

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) creates knowledge for a better world and solutions that can change everyday life.

Department of Marine Technology

We develop methods and technology related to the blue economy: oil and gas extraction at sea ship technology and the equipment industry fisheries and aquaculture. We also have a strong commitment to the development of sustainable solutions for offshore renewable energy coastal infrastructure and marine robotics. Marine technology helps to solve major global challenges related to the environment climate energy food and efficient transport. The Department of Marine Technology is one of eight departments in the Faculty of Engineering.