MSCA Doctoral Researcher in Smart Water Systems
Develop AI-driven solutions for resilient water distribution systems as part of a Horizon Europe Marie Curie Doctoral Network.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a strong background in computer science, engineering, or data science, passionate about AI-driven solutions for sustainable infrastructure.
Overview
This fully funded PhD position at Newcastle University is part of the i3WaterS project, a European Doctoral Network under Horizon Europe’s Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions. The successful candidate will research the integration of data, AI, and digital twins to create District Information Areas (DIAS) for smart water systems. These virtual subnetworks will enhance decision-making, optimize operations, and improve the resilience of water distribution networks. The project focuses on addressing challenges like water scarcity, climate change, and infrastructure deterioration through innovative, data-driven approaches. The candidate will work under a multidisciplinary team of supervisors from Newcastle University, University of Girona, University College Dublin, and an industrial mentor from Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water.
What you'll do
- Develop the concept of District Information Areas (DIAS) for smart water systems, integrating data, sensor information, and smart-meter data.
- Investigate how network connectivity and operational conditions can be used to assess local network health and improve system efficiency.
- Optimize the configuration and coverage of monitoring systems to enhance the representativeness of physical infrastructure data.
- Contribute to the development of large-scale digital twins for water distribution systems.
- Conduct research to support coordinated, semi-autonomous decision-making within water distribution networks.
- Collaborate with international research partners and an industrial mentor to ensure practical applicability of research outcomes.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration (no specific test score mentioned).
Instruction: English
- Strong background in computer science, engineering, or data science.
- Experience with AI, machine learning, or computational modeling.
- Familiarity with data integration, optimization techniques, and digital twin technologies.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB.
- Ability to work collaboratively in an international research environment.
- Eligible for MSCA Doctoral Networks (check [MSCA eligibility criteria](https://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions/eligibility_en) for details).
- Candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (e.g., work, studies) in the United Kingdom for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately preceding the recruitment date.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-20
Applicants must submit a formal application through the Newcastle University application system. The application should include a detailed CV, academic certificates, full transcripts, evidence of qualifications, a motivation letter outlining suitability for the research project, and information on the candidate’s country of residence and main activity during the 36 months preceding the recruitment date. All documents must be in English.
- Academic certificates and full transcripts
- Detailed curriculum vitae (including all academic degrees, dates, and awarding institutions)
- Information on country of residence and main activity during the 36 months preceding recruitment
- Documentary evidence supporting qualifications, experience, and achievements
- Motivation letter (no more than two pages)
Contact
Manuel Herrera· Main Supervisor
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