David Dai

Dr. David Dai serves as Senior Lecturer and Director of the Kelvin Hydrodynamics Laboratory in the Department of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Marine Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow. Previously holding research positions from 2015-2023 (Research Assistant to Research Fellow), he now leads experimental hydrodynamics research while contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals in renewable energy.

His educational qualifications include:

• PhD in Assessing the performance of OWC type wave energy converter (University of Strathclyde, 2016)
• MSc in Offshore floating structures (University of Strathclyde, 2011)
• BEd in Naval Architecture, Ocean and Marine Engineering (Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, 2010)

Dai's research integrates experimental tank testing and CFD simulations to address hydrodynamics challenges in marine renewable energy systems. His work spans wave/tidal energy conversion, fluid-structure interaction, digital twin applications, and advanced propulsion for offshore structures. This multidisciplinary approach bridges theoretical modeling with practical engineering solutions for sustainable ocean technologies.

Recent publications reveal a strategic focus on optimizing energy capture through innovative hydrodynamic configurations, particularly multi-body wave energy arrays and articulated tidal platforms. These studies demonstrate how near-trapping phenomena and hinge mechanisms can significantly enhance conversion efficiency within marine renewable energy systems.

His scientific recognition includes:

• Honorable Mention for the 2022 Vice Admiral E. L. Cochrane Award (hull roughness and ship resistance research)

Dai actively supervises PhD candidates and manages substantial research funding through 35 projects, including the Low Cost Underwater Glider initiative (2025-2026) and Offshore Floating Structures collaboration (2024-2027). His grant portfolio reflects strong industry-academic partnerships focused on sustainable marine technology development.

As Director of the Kelvin Hydrodynamics Laboratory, Dai oversees critical experimental infrastructure supporting ship resistance testing, offshore structure validation, and renewable energy device prototyping. The facility serves as a national resource for hydrodynamic research and industry collaboration in marine engineering.