PhD studentship: Obsolescence modelling for railway signalling and telecoms

Supervised by: Rasa Remenyte-Prescott (Faculty of Engineering, Resilience Engineering Research Group)

Aim: Develop a mathematical model for obsolescence modelling for railway signalling and telecoms

Background

Network Rail operates several telecom networks which provide connectivity for various signalling systems. Therefore, the performance of telecoms assets is integral to how the railway system operates, and it can have significant effect on train services. The performance encompasses not only of the equipment physical reliability but also includes various factors, such as life cycle, maintainability, workforce competency levels, to name a few, which fall into obsolescence issues. A key component of telecoms asset management strategy is to manage system obsolescence, in terms of either the equipment, the software or staff knowledge while supporting the system. It is important to note that obsolescence management plays a key role in improving safety, security, efficiency, and lifetime of a system, and such factors need to be considered when analysing the state of obsolescence for a system. 

Proposed project

This project proposes to develop an obsolescence modelling framework for asset management of railway signalling and telecoms systems. It will consider how old-technology items should be replaced by new generation of items whilst ensuring system safety and efficiency. Whole-life cycle costs and sustainability of the proposed replacement approaches will form an integral part of the proposed multi-objective optimisation approach. Such a methodology should help asset managers and system operators to make practical decisions regarding the technological obsolesce of telecoms under real-world uncertainties. 

Benefits of joining this project:

This project will give an opportunity for the student to explore the area of railway system modelling in collaboration with Network Rail. The student will not only gain valuable experience and insights on railway signalling and telecoms but also will liaise with Network Rail to develop impactful research outcomes for digital railway. 

Summary: Open to UK students only. Includes annual tax-free stipend, starting at £20,780 and home tuition fee. Duration 3.5 years. 

Entry Requirements: Starting October 2025, we require an enthusiastic graduate with a 1st class degree in engineering, maths or a relevant discipline, preferably at Masters level (in exceptional circumstances a 2:1 degree can be considered).

To apply visit: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/apply/apply-online.aspx 

For any enquiries about the project and the funding please email Rasa Remenyte-Prescott (r.remenyte-prescott@nottingham.ac.uk) 

This studentship is open until filled. Early application is strongly encouraged.

Closing Date: 11 Apr 2025 Category: Studentships