Research Fellow in Propulsion Systems Design

Fixed term contract for 25 months or until 31 October 2027, whichever is sooner 

Full time starting salary is normally in the range of £28,929 to £33,825 per annum, with potential progression to £39,586 per annum (if PhD close to completion), and in the range of £37,337 to £44,906 per annum (if PhD obtained) 

The Centre for Propulsion Engineering within FEAS is looking to expand its internationally renowned activities with the recruitment of a Research Fellow in Propulsion Systems Design. 

About the Roles

The research post will refine and apply Cranfield-developed methods for nacelle and exhaust system design, enabling timely analysis during design cycles. These components significantly impact engine/airframe integration and fuel burn, making efficient design methods essential for optimizing overall aircraft performance. 

This research will focus on exhaust system design and evaluating coupled powerplant-airframe configurations. Powerplant installation affects both systems and fuel burn, especially at off-design conditions like descent. The post will develop computational models and tools to assess cruise and off-design performance, improving understanding and design of integrated engine-airframe systems. 

This research may focus on nacelle design tool development, exploring low-drag laminar flow nacelles, drag sensitivity to manufacturing tolerances, and low-order models for rapid assessments. It will also address structural powerplant design and integration, refining computational methods to use high-fidelity aerodynamic data for accurate load prediction and system-level design decisions. 

About You

You will hold a PhD (or close to completion) in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related subject with a record of publishing in high-quality journals. 

Strong skills in applied CFD and experience leading research are essential. Candidates must have expertise in aerospace aerodynamics, compressible flow, and engineering programming. Experience in CFD, optimisation, HPC, and software development is desirable. A PhD, a strong publication record, and excellent technical communication, reporting, and presentation skills are required. 

Due to the nature of this role, you will be required to obtain UK Security Clearance (BPSS).

About Us

As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally. Learn more about Cranfield and our unique impact here.

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How to apply

For an informal discussion, please contact Dr Ioannis Goulos, on (E): i.goulos@cranfield.ac.uk

To apply please click above 'Apply' Button. For further details contact peoplerecruitment@cranfield.ac.uk quoting 5094.

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