Advanced Aerospace Systems: Novel Electric Actuator for Aerospace Applications with BAE Systems PhD

Location: Cranfield University

Supervisors: Professor Panos Laskaridis

We are offering a fully funded PhD studentship in collaboration with BAE Systems, providing a unique opportunity to work with a leading aerospace organisation at the forefront of advanced aircraft technologies. We seek enthusiastic, inquisitive, and motivated researchers with a strong interest in aerospace systems engineering to develop innovative solutions and technologies. This studentship, supported by a BAE Systems - EPSRC CASE Award, focuses on the design and development of a novel electric actuator. 

The successful candidate will join a diverse, world-class research group at Cranfield University and work closely with BAE Systems. The role includes the opportunity for an industrial placement. 

Research Focus:

The research will apply Systems Engineering methodologies to design and develop novel electric actuators, supporting the goal of Net Zero and the sustainable development of future aerospace systems. The candidate will collaborate with BAE Systems to review and develop operational, functional, and design requirements for advanced, sustainable air platform actuators. This includes assessing the suitability of novel electric actuation technologies, identifying and developing potential designs, and creating optimisation and performance simulation models. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and review requirements for future electric actuators.
• Evaluate and assess novel actuation technologies.
• Create design, optimisation, and performance simulation models.
• Ensure comprehensive design and integration, including thermal management, material selection, and manufacturing methods.
• Optimise size, weight, power, and cost while meeting performance, safety, and reliability standards.
• Contribute to validation and verification processes.

Team and Environment:

The researcher will join a diverse and inclusive team at Cranfield University, focusing on the development, integration, and evaluation of novel aircraft systems and technologies, emphasizing Engineering Net Zero and Sustainability. The team employs state-of-the-art multidisciplinary design and systems engineering methodologies for advanced aerospace systems. The successful candidate will leverage and enhance these capabilities while working closely with BAE Systems throughout the full design cycle of advanced systems.

Impact and Opportunities:

The research outcomes will directly influence the design and development of future electric actuators, supporting Net Zero Aviation. Contributions may include novel electric motor topologies, advanced cooling systems, innovative materials, and manufacturing methods. The project will also advance digital design methods within a Systems Engineering framework.

The researcher will interact with BAE Systems specialists and technology managers, attend national and international conferences, and engage with European and global experts in related fields. Cranfield University offers strong international links and world-class research capabilities, providing the researcher with extensive opportunities for professional development and networking.

Benefits:

• Contribute to the future of green aviation.
• Apply Systems Engineering methodologies to innovative design and technology solutions.
• Work at the forefront of sustainable aerospace research.
• Develop multidisciplinary research and technical skills.
• Gain experience in management, presentation, planning, and communication.
• Build a professional network within the aerospace industry.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a good first degree in mechanical/aerospace/electrical or mechatronics engineering, or computing, maths or physics or any other relevant topic. An MSc or relevant work experience will be beneficial. Knowledge of design and systems engineering methodologies will also be beneficial along with knowledge and experience of integration of electrical and mechanical systems.

Closes: 24/07/2024

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