EPSRC Industrial CDT in Offshore Renewable Energy (IDCORE)

The IDCORE programme will train world-class, industrially focused, research engineers, benefitting from an immersive industry experience, to accelerate the deployment of offshore wind, wave and tidal-current technologies in order to meet the UK's ambitious offshore renewable energy targets.

IDCORE is an Industry-based Centre for Doctoral Training, training 50 EngD (Engineering Doctorate) students in Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE), with 5 intakes from 2024 to 2028. IDCORE has been running as a training centre since 2012 and so far, has already recruited and trained over 100 Offshore Renewable Engineers. We were delighted to be awarded further funding to continue our proven track record: training a further cohort of highly skilled engineers to help grow this critical industry.

IDCORE has been a collaborative partnership between the University of Edinburgh, University of Exeter, University of Strathclyde and the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS). From 2024, for this new iteration of IDCORE, we are honoured that Swansea University is joining the collaboration. All 5 institutions bring together renowned academic expertise in Offshore Renewable Energy and world class research facilities.

Structure

This EngD is a four-year, full-time, programme based in Edinburgh for Semesters 1 and 2 of year 1 (September to June). Students are then  physically based with their sponsoring company, which could be anywhere in the UK, for 3 years.  Research projects are entirely driven by the sponsoring company and reflect the research focuses of the ORE sector, in real time.  Students are matched with their research project in February of year 1, and projects kick off in June.  IDCORE’s industry-based approach provides students with real-world industry experience and an opportunity to really contribute to the activities of their company.

Requirements

Potential applicants should be able to demonstrate: enthusiasm; resourcefulness; a mature approach to learning; creativity; a sound understanding of one or more branches of science or engineering; and possess either a first class honours degree, a distinctive MSc, or significant, relevant, industrial experience. 

Funding

A full scholarship (stipend and tuition fees) is available for successful applicants. 
Each year, 3 out of 10 successful candidates can be overseas candidates.
The 24/25 IDCORE stipend is £24,797 per year and is tax free.  For comparison with paid employment, this is equivalent to a gross salary of £31,472.
 

For more information about the programme and detailed guidance notes on applying, please visit the IDCORE website.

Informal enquiries to idcore.admin@ed.ac.uk 

Industrial Doctoral Centre in Offshore Renewable Energy (IDCORE) logo
IDCORE logo
IDCORE students with Seagreen offshore wind turbine jackets in the background
IDCORE students and Seagreen offshore wind turbine foundation jackets at Port of Nigg
A group of IDCORE students gathered on top of sea cliffs
IDCORE students exploring Orkney's rich Offshore Renewable Energy capabilities

Principal Supervisor: 

Eligibility: 

Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.

Funding: