Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
5 days ago
Funded PhD in Nonlinear Dynamics of Aperiodically-Excited Pendula and Energy Harvesting Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University in China
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Mechanical Engineering
Funding
Full funding available
Country
China
University
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
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About this position
PhD opportunity in nonlinear dynamics, control, and vibration energy harvesting at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), Suzhou, China. The project is titled Nonlinear dynamics of aperiodically-excited pendula and sits in the School of Robotics. It focuses on a base-excited pendulum-based vibratory energy harvester for renewable energy applications, especially converting irregular, wave-like excitations into sustained rotational motion for electrical power generation.
The research will combine numerical modelling, analytical dynamics, and experimental validation. The successful PhD student will study aperiodic and stochastic excitation, rotational attractors, bifurcation behaviour, favourable initial conditions, and design parameters that support continuous rotation without stopping points. The project also includes intelligent control strategies to maintain and regulate pendulum motion under irregular excitation, improve power extraction efficiency, and account for generator loading. A comparison with conventional vibration energy harvesting approaches and possible real-world wave-energy deployment are also part of the work.
Supervision is led by Dr Sze-Hong Teh (XJTLU), with co-supervision from Dr Yasunori Sakai (XJTLU), Dr Heba Lakany (University of Liverpool), and Dr Ko-Choong Woo (University of Nottingham Malaysia). Additional academic guidance is provided by Professor Marian Wiercigroch (University of Aberdeen), an expert in nonlinear dynamics and applied mechanics.
Funding: this is a funded PhD studentship for three years. The award includes a 50% tuition fee reduction and up to RMB 16,500 for conference participation. The student is expected to conduct most research at XJTLU in Suzhou, with a possible short-term research visit to the University of Liverpool.
Eligibility highlights: a Master’s degree with Merit and a Bachelor’s degree with first-class or upper second-class honours are required for PhD admission, though exceptional Bachelor’s-only candidates may be considered in some disciplines. Strong English is required; IELTS 6.5 or equivalent is expected for non-native English speakers.
How to apply: email the principal supervisor at Szehong.Teh@xjtlu.edu.cn with the project title in the subject line. Include your CV, two reference letters, personal statement, English language certificate, transcripts, verified education certificates, and a PDF of your Master’s dissertation or equivalent writing sample if available. Applications are accepted all year round.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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