Digital Twin-Enabled Fault Detection, Diagnosis and Adaptive Protection of Hybrid PV/Wind–Hydrogen Energy Systems Using Machine Learning for Net-Zero Energy

Summary

As Northern Ireland accelerates towards Net Zero, hybrid renewable-hydrogen systems  combining solar PV, wind, electrolysers, hydrogen storage, and fuel cells are emerging as a powerful way to store clean energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. But these systems are complex, and when something goes wrong an inverter fault, a degrading electrolyser, a failing sensor traditional protection methods often can't keep up.

This PhD project tackles that problem head-on. You'll build a digital twin online, virtual replica of a hybrid PV/Wind-hydrogen energy system, capable of simulating both normal operation and a wide range of realistic faults. Using machine learning, you'll train intelligent models within this virtual environment to detect problems early, diagnose their cause, and recommend protective action in real time before a fault becomes a costly failure or a safety risk.

This work at the intersection of renewable energy, hydrogen technologies, smart grids, artificial intelligence, and digital engineering, gaining hands-on experience with system modelling, deep learning, and next-generation protection strategies. The project benefits from international collaboration with hydrogen energy specialists and access to real-world operational data, giving you exposure well beyond a typical simulation-based PhD.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the technologies that will support safe, reliable renewable-hydrogen infrastructure with direct relevance to Northern Ireland's Net Zero transition, and skills that are highly required after across the global energy sector.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject area
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a First Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject area
• International applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to a distinction at Ulster
• Experience or knowledge of research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Track record of peer reviewed publications

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

PhD scholarships are available for this project to all applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile, and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year, or part-time equivalent, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.