Aura Centre for Doctoral Training

Background: I completed my Undergraduate Degree in Geology at the University of Hull in 2019, having spent significant time working on onshore and offshore sedimentary environments. I used this knowledge to determine palaeoenvironmental conditions of the Dorset/Isle of Portland coastline during my undergraduate dissertation. Following my graduation, I moved to the University of South Wales where I worked towards my Masters Degree in Advanced Applied Field Geoscience. For my Masters’ dissertation I utilised drone imagery and 3D modelling software to collect geological data as a substitute for traditional techniques, in effect conducting fieldwork remotely.

Research Interests: When looking towards research interests, I would aim to utilise my geological background to enhance our understanding of the seafloor. Whether this be looking at soft sediment deposition which may impact turbine anchorage points, or the bedrock depth and strength changing the suitability of areas for use in the expansion and development of wind farms. My skillset could also be aimed at changes in the subsurface overtime, for instance movements of deposited sediments which can threaten any seafloor-based infrastructure and through it the stability of electricity generation at the site.

Why you applied for the Aura CDT: I applied to the Aura CDT to allow me to continue to develop and learn in an academic capacity, while also broadening my skillset and knowledge base. The wider focus of the CDT to enhance and develop the offshore wind sector, provides me with the opportunity to make a beneficial difference within the constant demand for energy and the battle against climate change.

PhD Research:

My PhD project intends to identify available tsunami deposits along the Yorkshire coast, from both soft sediment coring and (where available) core data taken directly from offshore wind sites, with the aim of examining the frequency and size of the events passing through the North Sea. I will then utilise these estimations of size to simulate events in a laboratory scale experiment to determine the effects such events would have on the offshore wind infrastructure as a whole, and where possible trial appropriate damage mitigation strategies. This would allow for a greater understanding, (at both a local and global level), of the risk posed by tsunami events to the offshore wind industry and any means by which this damage can be reduced. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-pickett-938b32194