PhD Studentship: A Novel Liquid Hydrogen Regenerative Pump for Future Aero-engine Applications

Overview:

Fully Funded, £24,000 Tax-Free Stipend, Industrial Placement with Rolls-Royce

Join Cranfield University and the UK’s EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Net Zero Aviation—home to the world’s first Centre of Excellence in sustainable aviation education, research, and training. We’re offering a fully funded PhD opportunity, part of a cutting-edge collaborative project with Rolls-Royce, to help deliver the future of zero-emission flight.

Research Focus

This PhD will develop regenerative pumps to meet the demands of liquid hydrogen (LH₂) propulsion in next-generation aircraft. You will explore the challenges of pumping cryogenic hydrogen in multi-phase flows, particularly under off-design, low-flow conditions, through structured design, advanced modelling, and experimental validation. Unlike current space-based LH₂ pumps, aircraft systems demand lightweight, flexible solutions that can adapt to highly variable fuel flow rates.

Regenerative pumps, though promising, are not yet used for volatile cryogenic fluids like LH₂. This project will pioneer design methodologies and multiphase simulations to address this gap—focusing on cavitation behaviour and thermodynamic complexities unique to hydrogen.

Your Experience

You’ll become part of a multidisciplinary, diverse team with expertise in hydrogen technologies, turbomachinery, sustainable aviation, and systems integration. Your work will directly contribute to the UK’s decarbonisation goals and Rolls-Royce’s Hydrogen Demonstrator programme.

Throughout your PhD, you will:

• Receive cohort-based training across the CDT’s partner universities (Cranfield, Cardiff, Strathclyde, and the National Centre for Atmospheric Science).
• Attend national and international conferences (fully funded).
• Complete a minimum 3-month placement with Rolls-Royce.
• Benefit from industrial mentorship, world-class facilities, and collaboration with over 40 academic and industry partners.

Why This Matters

Hydrogen-powered aircraft are critical to achieving net zero emissions in aviation by 2050. This research addresses key gaps in enabling technologies—developing pumps that can reliably operate across a wide range of speeds and pressures while handling cryogenic fluids near boiling point. Your work will lay the foundation for future hydrogen fuel systems in medium-to-large aircraft, advancing both science and sustainability.

Candidate Profile

We welcome applicants with a first or second-class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in aerospace/mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field. Experience in numerical fluid dynamics is helpful but not essential—curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn are highly valued. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups in STEM, mature students, carers, and returners to academia. Flexible working arrangements are available.

Key Details

• Start Date: 29 September 2025
• Duration: 4 years
• Funding: UK only | Full tuition + £24,000 annual stipend
• Deadline: 14 May 2025
• Reference: SATM564

Application Process

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to two interviews. The second includes a 15-minute presentation on your motivation to join the CDT and how your background aligns with the programme.

Contact:
Dr. David John Rajendran, d.rajendran@cranfield.ac.uk

To apply please click above 'Apply' button above to be redirected to our website.

Apply early via the Cranfield University application portal—positions may be filled ahead of the deadline.

How to apply

For further information please contact:

Name: Dr. David John Rajendran
Email: d.rajendran@cranfield.ac.uk

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received. Therefore, we encourage early submission, as the position may be filled before the stated deadline.

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