The project investigates the design of new cryogenic electric motors used in LH2 or other cryogenic fuel pump applications, that will provide a critical building block in the design of hydrogen powered aircraft.

The project will explore various materials options & challenges in developing power dense cryogenic pumps for aerospace with high efficiency & reliability. The research will explore novel motor topologies & integration opportunities unique to cryogenic applications. The project will involve both simulation and experimental work, building on laboratory rigs and modelling work that have already proven valuable in industry and international net zero aviation programmes.

The CDT supports fully funded, multidisciplinary PhD research projects across areas such as:

• zero emission technologies
• ultra efficient aircraft, propulsion, aerodynamics, structures and systems
• aerospace materials, manufacturing, and life cycle analysis
• green aviation operations and infrastructure
• aviation environmental, commercialisation & socio-economic aspects

The CDT in Net Zero Aviation is the world’s first centre of excellence for net zero aviation education, training and research, delivering impactful industrial and academic partnerships, future-proof skills, innovation, and leadership to achieve net zero aviation by 2050.

The project forms part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Net Zero Aviation, offering an integrated, multidisciplinary training programme focused on innovation, collaboration, and inclusive leadership. As part of an annual cohort, you’ll benefit from world-class training facilities across various universities and industrial settings, engaging with experts and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. Based at the University of Strathclyde, a leading international technological university for impactful research, the project will leverage the commercial partner’s expertise in HVDC aircraft electrical technologies.

What you'll get from this project

While working on this exciting research project, you'll be provided with:

• a fully funded 4 year full-time industrially sponsored PhD – £24,000 tax free stipend per year
• attendance/presentations to international and national conferences with expenses fully covered
• cohort and individual modular training covering technical, research, professional and personal development
• a minimum of 3 months fully funded industrial placement
• industrial supervision/mentorship scheme
• access to 40 industrial, government & research partners from the wider aviation sector
• access to world class research and education facilities

Collaborating closely with all partners, interdisciplinary teams and fellow students, each CDT student will benefit from structured modular training, significant industry engagement, and access to world-class experimental facilities.

Graduates of the CDT in Net Zero Aviation will emerge with a unique interdisciplinary skillset, deep industry insights, and a commitment to sustainability, fully prepared to drive the decarbonisation of aviation in diverse careers spanning industry, academia, government, and policymaking. 

They'll be equipped with a unique interdisciplinary combination of technical and professional skills, gained through extensive cohort-based training and cross-university collaborations.

By engaging with diverse academic and industry partners across Cranfield, Strathclyde, and Cardiff Universities, and the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the wider aviation ecosystem.