PhD Studentship: Designing Next-Generation Electric Power Systems for Electrified Aircraft Propulsion

Project title: Designing Next-Generation Electric Power Systems for Electrified Aircraft Propulsion  

Supervisory Team: Dr Bahareh Zaghari and Dr Stratis Batzelis

Project description:

Shape the Future of Aerospace: Join the Next Generation Electric Power Systems

The aerospace industry is undergoing a revolution! With disruptive technologies reshaping how we think about air travel, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact. The global drive toward a Net Zero aviation sector by 2050 is sparking an unprecedented demand for innovation. Whether it's designing electric propulsion systems, integrating next-gen drive units, or reimagining the very essence of aircraft, your contribution could lead the charge in transforming the skies.

We are on the cusp of the next great leap in aviation technology, and now is the time for mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, aerospace engineers, and experts from every related discipline to come together. This isn’t just about joining a research project; this is your chance to be part of a movement that will redefine global transportation. You’ll be at the heart of developing sustainable solutions that can drastically reduce aviation’s carbon and non-carbon footprint, pushing us closer to a future of zero-emission flights.

The aim of this PhD research is to investigate on design strategies for integrated driveline system that combines the energy source, electrical machine, inverter, and gearbox. Design of such a system requires understanding of the aircraft requirement and minimising the total weight, and component interactions. Integrating the components can amplify vibrations and noise if not carefully designed and aligned. For example, electromagnetic noise from the motor can interact with gear meshing vibrations, while high frequency switching noise from the inverter can propagate through the structure, causing complex vibrational patterns. The integration challenges include managing structural resonances, mitigating torque ripple, and ensuring that vibrations from one component do not negatively impact the performance or safety of others. The candidate will investigate different design of electric drive and create models to access their performance.

The candidate requires to have basic understanding of power electronics and electrical machines with interests in conducting experiments as well as numerical modelling in MATLAB and ANSYS.

Entry Requirements

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

Closing date: 02 January 2025. 

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:  Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Elect & Elect Eng (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Bahareh Zaghari

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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