PhD Studentship: Design, Experimental Investigation, Aeroelasticity Modelling and Control of an Aircraft Wing with Bio-inspired Active Morphing Wingtip

Are you passionate about developing next-generation adaptive aircraft that mimic nature? Do you want to contribute to cutting-edge research that will transform aircraft wings from static compromises into actively morphing and efficient structures?

Applications are invited for a 3.5-year UK PhD studentship for the project "Design, Experimental Investigation, Aeroelasticity Modelling and Control of an Aircraft Wing with Bio-inspired Active Morphing Wingtip" in the research group of Dr Jun Wu at the University of Birmingham. The research focuses on developing a small-scale wing prototype with a bio‑inspired active morphing wingtip using smart materials that provide both actuation and self‑sensing. The PhD project is expected to start in September 2026 or soon after. The successful applicant will receive an annual tax‑free stipend of £20,780 for up to 3.5 years, together with full coverage of tuition fees. Additional funding is available for attending training events, workshops and academic conferences when necessary. The successful applicant will work within a vibrant and multidisciplinary aerospace team in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Birmingham, and will have opportunities to engage with researchers at the University of Bristol and the University of Oxford.

Project details:

Conventional aircraft wings are a static compromise, whereas birds continuously reconfigure their wings for optimal performance. This PhD project will involve the design, fabrication, experimental validation, aeroelasticity modelling, and control of a small-scale wing prototype with a bio-inspired active morphing wingtip using smart materials that provide both actuation and self-sensing. The long-term vision of this project is to develop aircrafts with actively morphing wingtips that sense and respond to aerodynamic loads in real time, mimicking avian flight.

You will adopt an integrated computational–experimental approach, including CAD for structural design, aeroelasticity modelling of aircraft wings, experimental testing, and control design for active morphing integration. Experimental testing will include modal testing, fatigue testing, wind tunnel testing, etc.

This PhD offers a complete research journey from structural design and structural dynamics to aeroelasticity and flight control. The project directly contributes to UK net-zero aviation targets through improved aerodynamic efficiency and reduced emissions. You will join a vibrant aerospace team at the University of Birmingham with access to dedicated experimental dynamics facilities, with potential collaborations with University of Bristol and University of Oxford.

Candidate requirements:

Essential: 1st class undergraduate or Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline. Knowledge of structural dynamics and experimental testing. Motivation for hands-on laboratory work and independent research.

Desirable: Experience with CAD/FEA (Abaqus/ANSYS), MATLAB/Simulink, wind tunnel testing, flight dynamics and control.

How to apply:

The application will be made through the university’s online application system (https://sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/EPS024.htm). Please provide a cover letter summarizing your research interests and suitability for the position, a curriculum vitae (CV), and the contact details of two referees. It is recommended to contact Dr Jun Wu (j.wu.11@bham.ac.uk) before applying.

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