Fully Funded PhD Candidate Position in Marine Technology – Hydrodynamic Loads and Tidal Turbine Performance at NTNU, Norway

Application Deadline: [Check official NTNU portal]
Location: Trondheim, Norway
Salary: NOK 550,800 per year (gross) + benefits
Duration: 3 years
Start Date: January 2026 (preferred) or August 2026

Are you passionate about renewable energy, marine hydrodynamics, and sustainable offshore technology? The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD Candidate position in the Department of Marine Technology. This exciting doctoral opportunity focuses on the hydrodynamic loads and performance of tidal turbines under realistic flow and clearance conditions—a crucial step toward advancing clean, predictable tidal-stream energy.

About the Research Project

Tidal energy offers a reliable and predictable renewable power source, particularly important for coastal nations like Norway. However, the hydrodynamic environment presents significant challenges due to:

• Non-uniform inflows
• Wave–current interactions
• Clearance limitations near the seabed or sea surface

This PhD project will explore how realistic inflow conditions and clearance constraints affect turbine loads, energy capture, durability, and structural integrity.

The research will investigate two turbine concepts:

• Bottom-fixed horizontal-axis turbines in shallow straits
• Floating turbines in deeper waters

The goal is to analyze sensitivity to wave–current interactions and assess performance, fatigue, and structural challenges.

Key Research Topics

As a PhD candidate, you will contribute to:

• Characterizing realistic inflow environments and their effect on turbine efficiency
• Assessing clearance effects on performance and structural loads
• Developing multi-fidelity models to resolve blade loads under normal and extreme conditions
• Conducting uncertainty quantification for robust, reproducible research
• Collaborating with Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) as part of the China–Norway Joint Research Centre on Marine Technology

You will also spend secondment periods at SJTU in China, focusing on CFD model development and validation studies, while being part of NTNU’s renowned Marine Structures research group.

Duties of the Position

• Conduct fundamental and applied research in tidal turbine hydrodynamics
• Develop and follow a PhD study plan (courses, milestones, publications)
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and international conferences
• Collaborate with international partners (NTNU and SJTU)
• Actively contribute to NTNU’s PhD community

Required Qualifications

To qualify, candidates must have:

• A Master’s degree in Marine Technology, Ocean Engineering, Marine Hydrodynamics, or equivalent
• Education equivalent to a five-year Norwegian degree (120 ECTS at Master’s level)
• A strong academic record (average grade B or better)
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
• Eligibility for NTNU’s PhD programme in Engineering

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in marine hydrodynamics and renewable energy
• Experience with experimental hydrodynamics and fluid–structure interaction
• Programming and numerical modeling skills (Python, MATLAB, CFD codes)

Personal Characteristics

NTNU is seeking candidates who are:

• Analytical, innovative, and motivated
• Collaborative yet independent
• Flexible, dependable, and eager to contribute to cutting-edge marine research

Salary and Benefits

• Gross annual salary: NOK 550,800 (approx. €47,000)
• Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK)
• Access to employee benefits and support services
• Opportunity to work in an inclusive, international research environment
• Contribution to NTNU’s mission of “Knowledge for a Better World”

Diversity at NTNU

NTNU is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Applicants from all backgrounds—regardless of gender, cultural origin, or employment history gaps—are strongly encouraged to apply. Special measures are in place to increase the proportion of women in scientific roles.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted via Jobbnorge.no and include:

1. CV and certificates
2. Transcripts and diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
3. Copy of Master’s thesis (or draft if recently submitted)
4. Project proposal (aligned with research topics)
5. Names and contact details of three referees
6. Publications or relevant research work

👉 Important: Applications will be assessed only on the information provided by the deadline. Ensure your application demonstrates how your background meets the stated requirements.

Why Norway and NTNU?

Living and working in Norway means access to:

• A safe, innovative, and sustainable society
• Breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor opportunities
• A strong focus on green energy research and technology
• NTNU’s global reputation as a leader in marine and offshore engineering

Final Thoughts

This fully funded PhD position at NTNU offers a rare opportunity to make a real impact in the field of renewable marine energy while gaining world-class research training. With international collaboration, excellent funding, and Norway’s supportive academic environment, this is the ideal launchpad for a successful research career.

🔗 Apply now. https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/286854/phd-candidate-in-marine-hydrodynamics