Next generation aircraft will be operated by subsystems that are increasingly powered by integrated, power-dense electrical power systems for which highly effective protection discrimination and resilience will be essential characteristics. At the same time, a new diversity of options is emerging for new sensors, adaptive protection, structure-integrated devices, solid state switches, and power architectures. As a result, this design space is expanding rapidly, offering alternative directions for development programmes, revealing new emergent hazards to be understood and mitigated, and presenting engineers considering component and systems design choices with a plethora of challenges. At the same time, the cycling of development programmes means we are on the cusp of a next generation of aircraft being developed with supremely demanding efficiency and emissions targets. The prospect for more radical thinking and engineering, new IP and technologies, and for innovative approaches to validating the results, is unsurpassed.

A number of PhDs give the opportunity for innovative framing of the associated design and performance questions, critical thinking of new research options, and rapid prototyping and experimental testing of innovative technologies. This will support industrial teams in their consistent handling of the expanded range of technologies and taxonomies, of systems performance appraisals, and of the shaping of test programmes for derisking solutions and validating systems. The work will be undertaken within a vibrant aero-electrical systems research team with access to strong industry partnerships and a healthy array of research toolkits, models, and experimental rigs. By working alongside industrial project teams and research colleagues, options will be evaluated against industrial case studies and practical implications incorporated. These will provide opportunities for early and immediate impact from the work. Moreover, working alongside multi-disciplinary teams will facilitate the collective effort that will be required to realise robust, innovative formulations for resiliency that deliver the confidence required of the sector. 

Given the multi-faceted nature of this problem domain, options exist for candidates from a range of mathematics, physics and electrical engineering backgrounds that are able to demonstrate critical and innovative thinking. This background will enable you to understand the domain, establish means of characterising and evaluating alternatives, and offering fresh thinking to challenge and influence key stakeholders. In this way, you will play in influential role in new technological pathways to net-zero aviation.

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

Further information

The CDT in Net Zero Aviation is the world’s first Centre of Excellence for Net Zero Aviation Education, Training & 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.

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

• a fully funded 4 year full-time industrially sponsored PhD – £25,183 tax free stipend per year, with home fees covered in full
• attendance/presentations to international and national conferences with expenses fully covered
• cohort and individual modular training covering technical, research, professional and personal development
• 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. You will 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, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of the wider aviation ecosystem.