PhD Studentship: Integrated Design and Assessment of Fuel Systems for Ultra-efficient Propulsion Systems

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

Join the UK’s EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Net Zero Aviation and help shape the future of sustainable air travel. This fully funded PhD at Cranfield University, in partnership with Rolls-Royce, will focus on developing new methodologies to design and assess fuel systems for next-generation, ultra-efficient engines powered by Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs).

Project Overview

Fuel systems play a critical role in enabling the net zero aviation transition by 2050, but current design methods are not tailored for the complex demands of modern ultra-efficient propulsion systems. This PhD project will address that gap by creating advanced simulation and design tools to evaluate integrated fuel systems, focusing on performance, operability, and dynamic behaviour (e.g. water hammer effects).

Working closely with Rolls-Royce, your research will develop and validate models using real-world industrial data, providing practical tools and design guidance for fuel systems of the future. You'll help de-risk the development of new propulsion architectures and reduce reliance on physical testing, aligning with the industry's drive toward simulation-led certification.

Research Highlights

• Develop a validated methodology for designing and assessing integrated fuel systems using SAFs.
• Investigate critical dynamic behaviours through Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and multi-fidelity simulations.
• Use experimental and computational approaches to improve fuel system confidence and reliability.
• Support the aviation industry's Destination Zero strategy by enabling faster, safer, and more cost-effective development processes.

Why Apply?

As part of the CDT, you’ll join a vibrant, multidisciplinary and inclusive cohort, benefiting from:

• An interdisciplinary training programme spanning Cranfield, Cardiff, and Strathclyde Universities, plus the National Centre for Atmospheric Science.
• Access to world-class facilities and academic expertise in aerospace systems, propulsion, and digital engineering.
• A minimum 3-month industrial placement with Rolls-Royce, a global leader in sustainable aviation technologies.
• Attendance at international conferences (fully funded).
• Mentorship and engagement with over 40 industrial, academic, and government partners.

This project offers a unique opportunity to develop cutting-edge technical skills in fluid systems, systems integration, MBSE, and simulation, as well as highly transferable professional skills such as technical communication, data analytics, and certification processes—preparing you for high-impact careers across industry, academia, and policy.

Candidate Profile

We welcome applicants with a first or upper-second class UK honours degree (or equivalent) in:

• Engineering (aerospace, mechanical, systems, etc.)
• Physics
• Mathematics or related disciplines

Experience with fluid systems modelling or aerospace systems is helpful but not essential. We highly value curiosity, adaptability, and collaborative spirit.

Applications from underrepresented groups, career returners, and mature students are strongly encouraged. Flexible arrangements and tailored support are available.

Key Details

• Start Date: 29 September 2025
• Application Deadline: 14 May 2025
• Duration: 4 years
• Eligibility: UK students only
• Reference: SATM565

Interview Process

• A short initial interview (20 minutes)
• A second interview including a 15-minute presentation on your motivations and fit for the CDT

How to apply

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

For further information please contact:

Name: Dr. Ioannis Roumeliotis
Email: i.roumeliotis@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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