Acoustic Array and Physics-Informed AI for Hydrogen Leak Detection and Localisation

The University of Southampton is seeking a candidate for a PhD project focused on Acoustic Array and Physics-Informed AI for Hydrogen Leak Detection. This role involves developing AI-driven acoustic methods to detect and localize hydrogen leaks in industrial settings, requiring expertise in applied mathematics, physics, and machine learning. Candidates should have a relevant degree and strong analytical skills. The project collaborates with Shell and emphasizes clean energy innovation.
Supervisory Team: Dr Michal Kalkowski and Dr Chao ZhengThis project aims to merge state-of-the-art acoustics, physics-based modelling, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) to advance hydrogen leak detection in complex environments. It drives innovation at the intersection of applied mathematics, physics, machine learning, and clean energy.Low-carbon hydrogen is positioned to play a key role in the energy transition, and its widespread adoption is supported by reliable, early leak detection. This project will develop new AI-driven acoustic array methods to detect, localise, and characterise hydrogen leaks in complex, noisy industrial environments.You'll work at the interface of acoustic sensing, physics‑based modelling, and advanced machine learning, including the use of physics‑informed neural networks (PINNs). The project tackles real‑world challenges such as multiple leak sources, cluttered propagation paths, and environmental noise—conditions that require innovative approaches blending wave‑physics insight with modern data‑driven techniques. The project aligns with national priorities in clean energy and advanced sensing technologies, reflecting the industrial impact and real‑world focus highlighted in major UK doctoral training initiatives. Key Research Areas are:ultrasonic array signal processing for gas‑leak acoustic signatureswave‑propagation modelling in cluttered, reflective environmentsAI‑driven leak localisation and characterisation (including PINNs)multi‑array sensor configurations for deployable industrial hydrogen monitoring systemsYou'll join an interdisciplinary team spanning ultrasonics, applied mathematics, and AI, and you'll be involved in training and cohort-building activities through:industrial engagement with Shell, ensuring strong real‑world relevancecentre for doctoral training (CDT) in the mathematics for our future climateresearch centre in non‑destructive evaluation (RCNDE)Entry requirementsYou must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in one of the following:engineeringphysicsmathematicscomputer scienceStrong computational and analytical skills are essential, and an interest in acoustics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), or signal processing is highly desirable.Fees and fundingThis project is a collaboration between Shell Information Technology International Limited and the University of Southampton. It is funded by Shell and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) under the Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award scheme. Funding is available to students from the UK and Horizon Europe countries. How to applyApply nowYou need to:choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciencesselect Full time or Part timesearch for programme PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175)add name of the supervisor in section 2Applications should include:your CV (resumé)2 academic referencesdegree transcripts and certificates to dateEnglish language qualification (if applicable)Contact usFaculty of Engineering and Physical SciencesIf you have a general question, email our doctoral college (feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk).Project leaderFor an initial conversation, email Dr Michal Kalkowski (M.Kalkowski@soton.ac.uk).The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.