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Exciting Fully Funded PhD Opportunities at Cranfield University in Next-Generation Airliner Research

Exciting Fully Funded PhD Opportunities at Cranfield University in Next-Generation Airliner Research

Cranfield University invites applications for four fully funded 3-year PhD studentships in a multinational research program aimed at designing and operating testbeds for next-generation airliners. These projects focus on developing cutting-edge technologies for environmentally friendly blended wing body (BWB) aircraft.

Key Highlights

  • Location: Cranfield Campus, Bedfordshire
  • Funding: £21,000 tax-free annual stipend + full tuition and project-related expenses
  • Duration: 3 years (full-time)
  • Application Deadline: 11th December 2024
  • Eligibility: Open to UK, EU, and international students

Available PhD Topics

1. Next-Generation Aircraft Certification and Testbed Legal Basis

  • Supervisor: Dr. Guy Gratton
  • Ref: SATM526

Apply here

2. Subsonic Testbed Design for Blended Wing Body Aircraft

  • Supervisor: Dr. Craig Lawson
  • Ref: SATM527

Apply here

3. Propulsion Technologies for Next-Generation Airliner Testbeds

  • Supervisor: Dr. Neys Schreiner
  • Ref: SATM528

Apply here

4. BWB Testbed Aerodynamics and Future Airliner Design

  • Supervisor: Prof. Simon Prince
  • Ref: SATM529

Apply here

Research Objectives

  • Design and optimize subscale blended wing body (BWB) aircraft for low-speed aerodynamics, stability, and control.
  • Develop propulsion integration and novel cycle designs for scaled demonstrator aircraft.
  • Establish best practices for certification and legal operation of testbeds.
  • Conduct multi-disciplinary design optimization using advanced software tools and CAD.

Eligibility Criteria

  • A 2:1 or higher honors degree in aerospace engineering, propulsion engineering, aerospace systems, or related fields.
  • A postgraduate degree or equivalent industry experience is highly desirable.
  • Proven interest in aircraft design or operations is preferred.

Funding Benefits

  • Tax-free stipend: £21,000 annually for living expenses.
  • Full coverage of tuition fees.
  • Funding for project-related expenses and attendance at conferences.

Research Environment

As part of the Cranfield Doctoral Network, you will engage in a vibrant research community, benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration, and access tailored seminars, events, and transferable skills training.

For more information, visit the Cranfield University PhD page or contact the supervisor team listed above.

Don’t miss this chance to shape the future of sustainable aviation! Apply by 11th December 2024.