The High Voltage Technologies Research Group of the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde is offering an exciting opportunity to join the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre as a PhD student in breakthrough aerospace technologies. This prestigious, fully-funded EPSRC iCASE 4-year PhD program will involve extensive training, experimental research and strong industry engagement.

Net-zero emissions is a strategic goal of the aviation industry, and to achieve this goal, radical, advanced electrical technologies are required. With progress in the development of more-electrical and hybrid aircrafts, advanced high-voltage systems are attracting strong interest for electrically assisted propulsion and combustion. Such electrical systems have the potential to deliver significant reductions in both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions.  The project will be focused on the development of advanced higher voltage systems and components to achieve these goals. This project will involve the PhD student working closely with other Institute for Energy and Environment colleagues.

Key details

• Host Institution: University of Strathclyde
• Industry Partner: Rolls-Royce Plc
• PhD Duration: 4 years
  Start Date: 1st October 2025 (negotiable)
• Enhanced stipend:  £20,780/year (standard UKRI stipend) + at least £1,500/year 

Due to the funder requirements, this opportunity is open only to candidates who are eligible for UK Home Fees.   

Generous contribution for personal development (travel to national and international research events and conferences, personal development opportunities)   

The Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering of the University of Strathclyde hosts several hundred researchers in state-of-the-art facilities, including the High Voltage Technologies Research (HVT) Group. The HVT Group is an internationally recognised high voltage and power centre, and the group is involved in a significant number of industrial partnerships and programmes. The HVT research group operates specialist High Voltage technology laboratory facilities and specialises in high voltage and power systems and technologies for different practical applications, including the aerospace industry. Fast-paced developments are underway in research into avionic power technologies and systems for different practical applications, and the HVT Research Group at the University of Strathclyde has accumulated significant experience and expertise in this area. 

Further information

Applicants who satisfy the requirements outlined in this descriptor will be invited for an interview, which will also be attended by representatives from the Industrial sponsor. The decision will be taken based on the outcome of the interview.