The acceleration of Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) is vital for global decarbonization. However, a major technical bottleneck persists: the disconnection between dry-lab simulations and wet-environment testing. This fragmentation often leads to ineffective deployment, increasing costs and stalling technology readiness. This PhD project aims to overcome these limits by developing a unified experimental framework that integrates dry and wet testing into a single, synchronized validation pipeline.The architecture harmonizes data and scaling laws across three distinct stages. First, high-fidelity dry-testing—utilizing 6-DoF motion platforms for Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) emulation—refines control strategies and mechanical components. Second, wet-testing in naval tanks provides controlled hydrodynamic validation. Finally, the framework culminates in real-sea validation at offshore sites. By integrating these environments, the research builds a "digital-to-sea" bridge, ensuring structural and energy performance models are robust and consistent across all scales.Aligned with the CU GAMMA (Technology and Territory) curriculum, this multi-scale project provides scalable solutions for clean energy (SDG 7) and climate resilience (SDG 13). Integrating currently disconnected facilities establishes a new methodological standard for accelerating the deployment of resilient offshore energy systems in the Mediterranean and beyond.
Candidates should preferably hold a MSc in Mechatronic Engineering. A solid background in mechatronics, control theory, and hydrodynamics is essential. Practical experience with prototyping and experimental testing (including sensors, data acquisition, and HiL systems) is highly required to manage the multi-stage validation pipeline. The applicant must demonstrate strong abilities in working in multidisciplinary teams and managing tasks within complex research projects. Proficiency in numerical modeling (Matlab/Simulink or Python) is expected.
The candidate will join the MOREnergy Lab, a multidisciplinary group with 20 years of experience and a strong international reputation in marine energy. The environment provides unique facilities: a 6-DoF Stewart platform for dry-testing, a new naval tank under construction, and a consented offshore test site in Pantelleria. With a vast portfolio of EU and national projects, the lab offers a high-impact atmosphere for the energy transition. The team includes experts in mechatronics and offshore engineering, enabling a complete "digital-to-sea" validation pipeline. This setting ensures the transition from models to real-world impact within the PhD SDC framework.