PhD Studentship: Off-design Intake Aerodynamics for Future Propulsion Systems

Overview: Fully Funded, £24,000 Tax-Free Stipend, Industrial Placement with Rolls-Royce

Join the UK’s pioneering EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Net Zero Aviation and help revolutionise the design of future aircraft propulsion systems. This fully funded PhD, based at Cranfield University and in partnership with Rolls-Royce, focuses on improving aerodynamic design methods for coupled intake/fan systems—a critical step toward enabling ultra-efficient engines for low-emission aviation.

Project Overview

As the aviation industry works towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050, advanced propulsion system integration is key. In this PhD, you’ll explore the complex aerodynamic interactions within next-generation intake/fan configurations, especially under challenging conditions like crosswind and high-incidence operation.

Using cutting-edge experimental data and high-fidelity unsteady CFD simulations, your research will enhance the understanding of flow physics, reduce risk in future designs, and provide validated tools for more compact and efficient powerplant integration. These compact designs are essential to reducing fuel burn and emissions in the aircraft of the future.

Research Aims

• Improve the confidence and accuracy of aerodynamic design tools for future turbofans.
• Analyse a unique experimental dataset to validate and benchmark computational models.
• Investigate flow distortion and aerodynamic behaviour in coupled intake/fan configurations.
• Provide design insights and guidance to accelerate technology readiness in propulsion integration.
• Contribute to developing industry standards in engine operability and performance.

Why This Project?

• Work closely with Rolls-Royce, a global leader in aerospace, through mentorship and a minimum 3-month industrial placement.
• Become part of a multidisciplinary CDT cohort with shared training, collaboration, and networking opportunities.
• Gain hands-on experience in aero-engine aerodynamics, flow measurement, modelling, and simulation.
• Benefit from Cranfield’s Centre for Propulsion and Thermal Power Engineering, home to world-class experimental and computational research.

Candidate Profile

We’re looking for inquisitive, motivated individuals with:

• A first or second-class honours degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer vision, or a related field.
• Interest or experience in computational modelling or coding—beneficial but not required.
• A curiosity-driven approach to solving complex engineering challenges.

We welcome applications from diverse and non-traditional backgrounds, including industry professionals, career changers, mature applicants, and returners to academia. Flexible working arrangements and tailored support are available.

Key Benefits

• Fully funded 4-year PhD with a £24,000 tax-free stipend/year
• Additional funding for conference travel and training
• Access to 40+ partners from across industry, government, and academia
• Cohort-based, cross-university training at Cranfield, Strathclyde, Cardiff, and the National Centre for Atmospheric Science
• Training in technical, research, and professional skills to become a future leader in sustainable aviation

Key Details

• Start Date: 29 September 2025
• Application Deadline: 14 May 2025
• Duration: 4 years
• Eligibility: UK students only
• Reference: SATM559

Interview Process

• Initial 20-minute introductory interview
• Second stage: 15-minute presentation on your motivation and alignment with the CDT, followed by Q&A

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.

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