Flinders PhD Enterprise Scholarship: Investigative Drilling (ID) method theoretical investigation and practical application (Geotechnical Engineering)

Flinders University and Civil Group (Aust) Pty Ltd are offering a PhD Enterprise Scholarship to undertake innovative research into investigative drilling (ID) method for ground investigation

Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering and Civil Group (Aust) Pty Ltd are collaborating on this research project to develop a framework for geotechnical investigations using the ID method, thus providing a rigorous technical basis for its general industry use and acceptance in geotechnical strata investigation.  Bringing significant industry experience to the project, Civil Group is a diverse construction and drilling company, providing service to transmission line construction, renewable energy, mining and infrastructure construction.  Flinders College of Science and Engineering is also committed to undertake advanced research in geomechanics, addressing real world problems and promoting sustainable development and has complimentary research strengths in geotechnical site characterization and foundation systems.  Together we are seeking innovative solutions to this challenging area of research through this PhD project. 

Acquiring accurate ground conditions is of primary importance for civil construction projects. The past few decades have seen significant advances in ground investigation techniques, among which the Measuring While Drilling (MWD) technique has gained in popularity in geotechnical site explorations. The ID Method is based on the MWD system and consists of measuring the mechanical responses of a drill rig during the process of advancing a drillhole through soil and/or rock layers. Civil Group has applied the ID method in a significant number of major infrastructure projects, which offers a highly affordable alternative to the conventional geotechnical investigation approach.

This project aims to develop a fast, economical, and reliable solution to reduce risks associated with unforeseen and/or variable ground conditions, ensuring the highest level of risk mitigation and verification prior to construction activities. It is proposed to explore the correlations between the data obtained from the ID technique and the conventional site investigation methods. Analysis and interpretation of the measured data will be carried out to develop and validate the soil behavior classification. Correlations among ID measured data and standard in-situ and laboratory test results from existing projects will be established in terms of strength and stiffness properties. A hybrid approach for ground investigation by combining the benefits of both physics-based and data-driven modelling will be explored as well.

The PhD Enterprise Scholarship also includes an internship of at least 60 full-time equivalent days, agreed to in written form within 18 months of candidature, undertaken and completed prior to completion of the PhD, during which you will be embedded with the industry partner team, developing your network, and gaining insight into the everyday research practices of an industry-leading/service driven organisation.

To find out more about this exciting scholarship opportunity, contact Dr Hongyu Qin via email at: hongyu.qin@flinders.edu.au

This PhD Enterprise Scholarship offers:

• $28,854 (2022 full-time rate, indexed annually) per annum tax free, for up to 3.5 years
• Access to academic and industry expertise through joint supervision
• A supportive environment to learn leading-edge research methods and become an expert in your area
• The opportunity to manage a complex research project and respond innovatively to challenges
• Apply your research skills during an internship with Civil Group (Aust) Pty Ltd

To be eligible for a PhD Enterprise Scholarship you will need:

• To be an Australian citizen, New Zealand citizen, an Australian permanent resident or have, or are eligible to apply for, a relevant international visa; and
• Meet Flinders University PhD admission requirements – an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A or equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8), or evidence of equivalent research experience, such as refereed publications or significant experience as a lead researcher; and
• Are available to commence as a full-time PhD student at Flinders University in semester 1, 2022.
• Any other eligibility criteria relevant to the industry partner/research project (eg have or able to apply for a National Police Criminal History Check)

It is desirable for applicants to also have:

• Master’s degree in civil engineering or geology engineering with specialisation in geotechnics or related area.
• Demonstrated experience in undertaking research in geotechnical field or laboratory tests.
• A keen interest in the PhD research project.