Containing delay propagation across the rail network

Supervisor: Dr Rasa Remenyte-Prescott - Resilience Engineering research group in the Faculty of Engineering.

The railway network in the United Kingdom is both complex and extensive. In 2024 it recorded approximately 1.7 billion passenger journeys equating to around 4.8 million train movements per day—a 9% increase on the previous year. This growth highlights the critical role of rail in national mobility and the mounting pressure on infrastructure and operations. Despite carefully designed and monitored timetables disruptions occur unexpectedly, often triggered by infrastructure failures, human error, or external factors. Given the high level of network congestion, a single incident can propagate delays widely across the system. Timely and effective intervention is therefore essential to mitigate reactionary delay and maintain network resilience.

Proposed project 

This 3.5-year PhD project aims to develop a comprehensive railway network delay propagation model capable of addressing a wide range of disruptions and response strategies. The project will produce robust modelling frameworks and analytical techniques to support operational decision-making and maintain required network performance. A key focus will be on modelling the effects of disruptions and the spread of delays, which will underpin a proposed multi-objective optimisation approach for enhancing resilience and efficiency.

This project will provide an opportunity for you to explore the area of railway system modelling in collaboration with an industrial partner. Not only will you gain valuable experience and insights on railway network management, but you will also liaise with an industrial partner to develop impactful research outcomes for digital railway. 

Candidate requirements 

Starting October 2026 we require an enthusiastic graduate with a 1st class degree in engineering, maths, or a relevant discipline, preferably at master's level - in exceptional circumstances a 2:1 degree can be considered.

Funding and eligibility

This studentship is available to UK/home candidates only. The proposed funding will cover UK / home PhD tuition fees plus a tax-free stipend for 3.5 years starting at £22,000 per annum. A travel and consumables allowance will also be available. 

How to apply

Please apply online. This studentship is open until filled. Early application is strongly encouraged.

For any enquiries about the project or funding please email Dr Rasa Remenyte-Prescott at r.remenyte-prescott@nottingham.ac.uk