Overview: Fully Funded, £24,000 Tax-Free Stipend, Placement with Rolls-Royce
Join a vibrant, multidisciplinary community at the UK’s EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Net Zero Aviation, the world’s first centre of excellence dedicated to decarbonising aviation through advanced research, skills training, and industry collaboration.
We are offering a fully funded 4-year PhD project based at Cranfield University, in collaboration with Rolls-Royce, focused on pioneering non-intrusive ultrasonic technologies to measure intake massflow in aero-engines. This innovative research will play a vital role in improving engine performance assessments and in-flight testing—key enablers for Net Zero aviation.
Research Focus
Future ultra-efficient propulsion systems require new ways to accurately monitor and evaluate engine performance. This project will explore acoustic velocimetry to measure massflow and velocity profiles at engine intakes without disturbing the flow.
You’ll design and build a novel experimental rig, develop and integrate ultrasonic instrumentation, and carry out experimental testing alongside computational analysis to predict intake aerodynamic characteristics. The work will also explore system sensitivity to different operating conditions and develop data processing methods to enhance measurement accuracy.
The research directly supports the UK's leadership in aviation decarbonisation and contributes to Rolls-Royce’s strategy to advance hydrogen propulsion and next-generation turbofans.
What You’ll Gain
As part of this project, you will:
- Gain hands-on experience in experimental aerodynamics, acoustic flow measurement, and instrumentation design.
- Be embedded in the Centre for Propulsion and Thermal Power Engineering, renowned for expertise in propulsion system aerodynamics.
- Engage in cross-disciplinary collaboration within the CDT’s training cohort, learning alongside peers working on diverse Net Zero aviation challenges.
The project also includes:
- A minimum 3-month industrial placement with Rolls-Royce.
- Full funding for conference attendance and presentations.
- Access to a wide network of industrial, government, and academic partners.
- Membership of the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre at Cranfield.
You’ll develop not only technical expertise but also key leadership, innovation, and communication skills through the CDT’s structured, cohort-based training programme, which spans partner institutions including Strathclyde, Cardiff, and the National Centre for Atmospheric Science.
Candidate Profile
We welcome applicants with a first or second-class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as engineering, physics, mathematics, acoustics, or instrumentation. Experience with computational modelling, test rig development, or experimental methods is desirable but not essential. Most importantly, we're looking for someone excited to build and test new technologies in a hands-on, collaborative research environment.
We strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups in STEM, mature applicants, returners to academia, and those requiring flexible working arrangements.
At a Glance
- Start Date: 29 September 2025
- Deadline: 14 May 2025
- Duration: 4 years
- Location: Cranfield University
- Eligibility: UK applicants only
- Reference: SATM558
Application Process
Shortlisted candidates will have two interviews. The second includes a 15-minute presentation on your motivation and how your background aligns with the CDT.
How to apply
To apply please click above 'Apply' button above to be redirected to our website.
For further information please contact:
Name: Professor David MacManus
Email: d.g.macmanus@cranfield.ac.uk
If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.
Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received. Therefore, we encourage early submission, as the position may be filled before the stated deadline.
£24,000. Tax-Free Stipend
