Dr Ajit Pillai

Senior Lecturer, University of Exeter

Ajit Pillai is a Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellow and Senior Lecturer at the University of Exeter. His research focuses on developing and deploying optimization algorithms and machine learning techniques to support the design and operation of offshore renewable energy systems. Through his ongoing fellowship, he is creating methods that integrate high-fidelity numerical models with targeted, dynamic measurement campaigns using autonomous vessels to improve marine safety and operational decision-making. This work aims to reduce environmental uncertainty and establish a novel spatial data framework for the marine environment.

Ajit has contributed to research projects applying optimization, machine learning, and advanced hydrodynamic modelling to offshore systems. His recent work includes metocean forecasting, offshore wind farm layout optimization, mooring system design, and the use of autonomous platforms for data collection. His research interests lie in combining digital tools and physical modelling to accelerate innovation in offshore renewables.