EngD Project Title: Advancing system design to support the commercialisation of tidal stream technology

Industrial Partner: Proteus Marine Renewables

Educational and professional background

I graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2024 with an MEng in Chemical Engineering. My key university projects included designing a gasification reactor for hydrogen production from waste tyres and using CFD software to model and optimise a novel mixing method. Also, as part of my degree, I completed an industrial placement at Airbus as a Materials and Processes Engineer in the Failure Analysis team, gaining hands-on laboratory experience.

What attracted you to studying with IDCORE?

I've always been interested in pursuing a career in renewable energy, so as I approached the end of my degree, I began exploring the best entry paths into the industry. My experience at Airbus taught me that obtaining a doctorate would expand my professional opportunities and allow me to maintain a technical trajectory. At this stage in my career, this is the direction I'd like to take. While looking for doctoral degrees, I came across IDCORE’s EngD programme and was immediately drawn to it because of its advantages over traditional PhDs. Specific areas that stood out were the industry experience and the camaraderie with fellow cohort members. The opportunity to gain specialised knowledge while receiving generous financial compensation was an ideal situation that aligned perfectly with my career goals.

What attracted you to the Renewable Energy Sector? What aspects of the industry do you find most inspiring, interesting, or important for the future?

Since secondary school, I have wanted to join the renewable energy industry. I enjoy problem-solving, and the climate crisis is one of the most significant challenges that needs addressing. The projected growth of the offshore renewables industry in the UK is substantial. Joining the sector at the start of my career will allow me to contribute to this crucial transition and grow alongside emerging technologies. It’s a chance to make a meaningful impact in combating climate change while being part of an industry with exceptional growth potential.

While offshore wind has flourished, tidal energy remains relatively underdeveloped despite its huge potential. The UK's coastline offers ideal conditions for tidal power, which could provide predictable, reliable energy to complement other renewable sources. I'm eager to apply my engineering skills to overcome the remaining technical challenges and help drive tidal energy's transition from a promising technology to a mainstream power source.

What ambition would you like to fulfil as a Research Engineer?

My project focuses on advancing system design to support the commercialisation of tidal stream technology with Proteus Marine Renewables. I hope to apply my academic knowledge and industrial experience to make a significant contribution to the sector by optimising blade design for large-scale deployment. At the end of the programme, I aspire to establish myself as an expert in my field and contribute meaningfully to the tidal industry's continued growth and innovation.