PhD Studentship: Aerodynamic Interaction between Next Generation Aircraft Engines and Wings

Supervisory Team: David Angland

Project description:

A PhD studentship is now available in the area of aircraft aerodynamics and aeroacoustics (aerodynamically generated noise). The studentship provides a unique opportunity to work on a relevant engineering problem at the Airbus Noise Technology Centre (ANTC), part of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Southampton.

The primary goal of this PhD work is to understand the impact of the next generation of aircraft engines on the performance of the wing high-lift devices, i.e. the leading edge slat, trailing edge flaps and spoilers. There are several candidates for the next generation of aircraft engines in order to reduce the environmental impact of air travel. One such candidate is an open rotor engine (e.g. the CFM International RISE programme). This engine is planned to support both hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuels. There is an aerodynamic and aeroacoustic impact of such an engine on the wing that is not currently fully understood due to the interaction with wake of the rotor. This is the topic that is investigated in this PhD using a combination of wind tunnel tests, numerical simulations and analytical methods.

The experiments will be performed using the state-of-the-art wind tunnel facilities at the University of Southampton. The numerical simulations will involve Large Eddy Simulations (LES) using a Lattice Bolztmann solver. The project will suit a student with strong analytical skills as well as some experience in wind tunnel experiments and CFD.

The outcome of the project will be a more fundamental understanding of the underlying aerodynamic mechanisms responsible for the noise sources with the next generation of future aircraft propulsion types. This PhD studentship will provide an excellent opportunity to work closely and collaborate with one of the largest aerospace companies in the world, Airbus, and explore relevant problems in the aerospace industry for future aircraft with less of an environmental impact.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact David Angland, AFM Research Group, Email: d.angland@soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 4987.

Entry Requirements

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

Closing date: 31^st December 2024. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How to apply

Apply online: HERE Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor David Angland.

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

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