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About
Colleges

Marine-based renewable energy innovations

About the project

Are you passionate about the potential of marine-based renewable energy to transform global energy systems?

This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity to research and develop innovations in marine energy technologies, focusing on their role in driving sustainable energy solutions and contributing to the transition towards a green economy.

Project background

Marine-based renewable energy, including tidal, wave, and offshore wind power, represents one of the most promising sources of clean, sustainable energy. However, while these technologies have vast potential, their development faces significant challenges, such as energy efficiency, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness. Innovating within this space requires a deep understanding of both the technological and environmental aspects of marine energy, as well as the broader market dynamics and policy landscape.

Project overview

The "Marine-based Renewable Energy Innovations" project will focus on exploring and advancing the technologies that enable the harnessing of marine energy resources. The successful candidate will work on identifying key challenges in marine energy systems, from energy capture and storage to grid integration and environmental sustainability. The research will aim to propose innovative solutions that can accelerate the commercialisation and widespread adoption of marine-based renewable energy technologies.

Key focus areas

As a PhD candidate, you will focus on:

  • Comprehensive analysis: Conduct a thorough analysis of current marine energy technologies, identifying gaps and potential areas for innovation.
  • Efficiency and scalability: Develop new models or solutions to improve the efficiency, scalability, and environmental impact of marine energy systems.
  • Integration into energy infrastructures: Explore the integration of marine energy into existing energy infrastructures, including storage solutions, grid integration, and hybrid energy systems.
  • Collaboration with industry leaders: Work with industry leaders and policymakers to ensure the practical application of research and influence the adoption of sustainable marine energy solutions.

Research approach

This project employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining advanced technological and environmental research with market and policy analysis. You will:

  • Implement innovative models: Develop and refine models to enhance marine energy systems.
  • Conduct environmental impact studies: Assess the environmental impacts of marine energy technologies.
  • Analyse market dynamics: Study the broader market dynamics and policy landscape affecting marine energy.
  • Collaborate across sectors: Work with industry stakeholders, governmental organisations, and environmental groups to ensure practical applications of your research.

Who we're looking for

Ideal candidates should have:

  • A background in Economics or Business & Management, with additional expertise in Environmental Science, Renewable Energy, or related fields.
  • Familiarity with renewable energy technologies, particularly marine energy, offshore wind, tidal, or wave power.
  • Experience with modelling, simulation, or experimental work in renewable energy systems.
  • A strong interest in innovation, sustainable energy solutions, and their environmental and economic implications.
  • Proficiency in software tools for energy modelling or simulation is an advantage.

Start date

All PhD students will begin their programme and training in January or September 2025.

Enquiries and applications

If you are excited to explore marine energy innovations and contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions, please contact Dr Pak Seresht at ashkan.pakseresht@brunel.ac.uk for more details on the project and application process.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying for the above PhD topic please follow the steps below:

  1. Contact the supervisor by email or phone to discuss your interest and find out if you would be suitable. Supervisor details can be found on this topic page. The supervisor will guide you in developing the topic-specific research proposal, which will form part of your application.
  2. Click on the 'Apply here' button on this page and you will be taken to the relevant PhD course page, where you can apply using an online application.
  3. Complete the online application indicating your selected supervisor and include the research proposal for the topic you have selected.

Good luck!

This is a self funded topic

Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.

Meet the Supervisor(s)

Ashkan Pak Seresht - Dr Ashkan Pakseresht is an Assistant Professor in Strategy and Innovation at Brunel Business School, London, and a lecturer in International Business Economics. With a PhD in Business Economics, an MSc in Economics and Management, an MBA in International Business, and a BSc in Engineering, he has a multidisciplinary background that informs his research and teaching. Dr Pak Seresht is an advocate for sustainability, specialising in the blue and circular economies, with a focus on integrating sustainable development goals (SDGs) into business practices. His research spans innovation management, internationalisation processes, the role of data and digital technologies in food supply chains, exploring the complexitiesand intricacies associated with them.  Additionally, his teaching endeavors encompass a wide range of subjects, including economics for business and management, international trade, strategic management, and entrepreneurship. Dr Pak Seresht is passionate about student experience, and research-led teaching. He is closely involved with business practice through research projects, executive and professional education programs, and in speaker and advisory roles. Some of the published journal articles are listed on this page under the "Newest selected publications". For more details, please visit my Google Scholar page link below: ‪Ashkan Pakseresht‬ - ‪Google Scholar‬ Student feedback and drop-in sessions term 2: Tuesdays and Fridays 13:00-14:00