PhD Studentship: Low-noise Ducted Propulsion Systems for Next-Gen eVTOL Platforms

Supervisory Team: Phillip Joseph, Sergi Palleja Cabre and Chaitanya Paruchuri

Project description

Overview:

Electrically-powered vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft are poised to revolutionize transportation, contributing significantly to the UK economy. However, the potential hindrance of noise on community acceptance is a critical concern. Join our dynamic team at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR) to explore this cutting-edge field and unravel the complexities of eVTOL noise sources.

Project Focus:

This PhD project aims to improve understanding of innovative noise reduction technologies in electric ducted propellers for eVTOL Urban Air Mobility vehicles. These compact propulsion systems have limited space available to install noise reduction treatments conventionally used in larger aero engines. This project will therefore investigate acoustic treatments such as porosity and liners installed in the propeller casing and model the suppression of the sources of propeller noise through analytical methods. You will have access to the state-of-the-art aeroacoustic wind tunnel and other facilities at the University of Southampton to perform experiments and validate and enhance the prediction models. Furthermore, you will also have opportunities to collaborate with international research groups to perform computational simulations to verify the analytical modelling.

Research Environment:

The Acoustics Group at ISVR is a globally recognized centre for the study of sound and vibration. By joining our motivated team, you'll collaborate with researchers from diverse backgrounds, including PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. We foster a culture of inclusivity and aim to tackle challenging problems, offering you the chance to develop new skills and expertise in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Requirements:

• Degree in Engineering or Mathematics.
• Interest and some experience in experimental work or analytical method development.
• Strong foundation in mathematics and computing (MATLAB, PYTHON, etc.) for data analysis and model synthesis.

Benefits:

• A unique opportunity to work on a transformative technology with real-world impact.
• Collaboration with a diverse and inclusive research team.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities for experimental validation.
• International travel opportunities to present your work at conferences and establish global collaborations.

Application Deadline:

International students with relevant publications are encouraged to apply before February 1st, 2024, to be considered for the prestigious presidential scholarship scheme, covering full international fees. This position is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. We strongly encourage applications from EU and UK students, given funding restrictions.

Embark on a journey of discovery and innovation in the realm of advanced air mobility. Join us at the ISVR to shape the future of eVTOL technology and make a lasting impact on the aviation industry. Apply now and be a part of the transformation!

Entry Requirements

A good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2024.

Funding: Funding for tuition fees and a living stipend are available on a competitive basis. Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Chaitanya Paruchuri

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

Email: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

Advert information