- School: School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment
- Study mode(s): Full-time
- Starting: 2026
- Funding: UK student / Fully-funded
Project overview
Project ID: S134
Are you ready to help solve two of the biggest global challenges of our time: water scarcity and urban flooding?
We are seeking an ambitious, creative, and forward-thinking graduate (product design, computer science, engineering or mechatronics ) to join a fully-funded PhD project focused on developing an AI-powered intelligent rainwater harvesting and attenuation system.
This is your opportunity to design new technology – combining AI, sensors, software tools, practical design and commercialisation – to contribute to a more sustainable future.
The project is industrially-funded by Stormsaver, the UK market leader in rainwater harvesting solutions, with NTU. All training will be provided to help you build the required expertise in rain water harvesting applications.
Why This Project?
Climate change is intensifying rainfall patterns, increasing flood risks, and placing pressure on urban water systems. Rainwater harvesting captures and reuses water from rooftops for building use, while attenuation systems safely store heavy rainwater to prevent flooding.
What Makes This Project Different?
- This is an industrially co-funded project between Nottingham Trent University and Stormsaver, the UK market leader in rainwater harvesting.
- Your work could become a real commercial product, creating a real impact.
- You will combine AI, sensors, software tools, practical design and commercialisation.
This PhD goes beyond current technology to:
- Develop intelligent systems using Artificial Intelligence and sensor technology
- Integrate AI, software, product design, and commercial innovation
- Contribute to sustainable infrastructure that protects communities and conserves water.
What you will work on
- CAD design and rapid prototyping (including 3D printing).
- AI-driven predictive control systems for rainwater management.
- Smart sensor integration and data modelling.
- Software development and system optimisation.
All necessary training will be provided.
Why This PhD?
- Fully funded studentship (university fees and living expenses)
- Opportunity to get the needed training and personal development.
- Work on cutting-edge AI and sustainable technology.
- Direct industry collaboration.
- Real-world impact on climate resilience.
- Opportunity to publish, innovate, and commercialise.
If you want your PhD to make a measurable difference, this is your opportunity.
Supervisory Team
Michael Farnsworth and Greg Rolleston, Stormsaver Ltd
Entry qualifications
We are looking for candidates who are curious, driven, and excited by innovation. We value potential, adaptability, and enthusiasm just as much as direct experience of all aspects of the project.
You should hold (or expect to hold) an undergraduate and/or Master’s degree in one of the following areas:
- Product Design.
- Computer Science.
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing).
- Or any other related discipline.
We are particularly interested in applicants with experience in one or more of the following:
- CAD design and prototyping (e.g., 3D printing)
- Programming (MATLAB or other suitable languages)
- Creative and analytical problem-solving
How to apply
To be eligible to be considered for this studentship, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must qualify for UK home fee status. You can find information on this here – home or overseas tuition fee status.
- You must be available to begin study from 1 October 2026.
- You must not be a current doctoral level candidate at Nottingham Trent University or already hold a PhD or other doctoral degree.
- You can only submit one application relating to one NTU studentship project. If you submit more than one application none of your applications will be considered.
- You must submit a full and complete application (including having submitted all required supporting documents) by 17 April 2026. Any incomplete applications, or applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Click the “Apply online” button at the top of this page to begin your application.
Fees and funding
This is a fully funded PhD studentship opportunity, open to UK applicants only.
Guidance and support
Find out about guidance and support for researchers
Still need help?
Contact Professor Amin Al-Habaibeh on:
- Email: Amin.Al-Habaibeh@ntu.ac.uk
