Comprehensive framework for pumping systems development in LH2 aircraft

About the Project

This exciting project in collaboration with Rolls-Royce will develop a structured framework for selecting the most suitable liquid hydrogen (LH2) pump architecture for future civil aviation. It builds on recent findings showing that the LH2 pumping solution must meet all performance, weight, and lifetime requirements, and that different architectures offer distinct advantages such as multi phase flow handling and wide flow rate modulation. Because optimal choices depend heavily on the overall fuel system configuration, the project will use detailed modelling of tanks, pumps, and system architectures to evaluate both individual and hybrid pumping concepts. The outcome will be a comprehensive Multi Criteria Decision Analysis framework that guides the selection and development of robust LH2 pumping technologies for aircraft.

Recent research and development efforts for incorporating LH2 in civil aviation led by various engine and aircraft manufacturers has identified pressurization/pumping as a critical enabling technology. A single optimized LH2 pumping architecture that meets all the performance, weight and life requirements of the aircraft is desired. Various pumping architectures have different specific advantages like the ability to handle multi-phase flow without performance degradation, have high turn-down ratios to modulate flow for various portions of the mission profile, and demonstrate good integration with the rest of the upstream and downstream components of the fuel system. Considering this, it is becoming increasingly apparent that depending upon the fuel system architectural configuration, an optimal pumping architecture, which could be a combination of different types, is required to be carefully selected by a ranking framework of requirements.

Therefore, this PhD aims to develop a comprehensive ranking framework for selecting the pump architecture by utilizing a robust technical analysis that will involve appropriate fidelity models for the tank, pump, and fuel system architecture. The PhD will investigate the suitability of either the individual or a hybrid combined use of various pumping architectures like piston, regenerative, centrifugal, scroll or any other novel pumping system with a specific known advantage for LH2 use. The outcome will be a comprehensive framework developed through a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework which will enable the selection and development of a robust pumping architecture for LH2 in civil aviation.

This position is part of the CDT in Net Zero Aviation, which offers a modular, cohort-based training programme with emphasis on innovation and impact, collaborative working and learning, continuous development, active engagement with partners and stakeholders and inclusion of student-led activities. You will be part of an annual cohort and will receive training at different universities and industrial partners providing world-class facilities in a supportive, innovative, inclusive and interactive learning environment.

Based at Cranfield University, a global leader in aerospace research, the project benefits from world-class experimental facilities in hydrogen testing and expertise in materials science and hydrogen technologies. The industrial sponsor, Rolls-Royce, is committed to net zero aviation by 2050 and is pioneering hydrogen propulsion systems through their Hydrogen Demonstrator program. This partnership provides a unique industrial environment, ensuring that research outcomes directly align with future aviation applications.

The optimized pumping architecture from various considerations in a liquid hydrogen fuel system needs to be developed. This can be achieved by building a coherent framework that is inherently multi-disciplinary in including not only performance but integration, ease of manufacture, maintenance, costing and operational considerations. This PhD will be the first research project to so develop a system level requirement inspired pumping architecture solution for LH2 fuel systems. This research aims to put together an upper-level framework, which will constructively look at integrating the outcome from individual pump technology research programs to enable potentially novel hybrid architectures by considering integration and wider aircraft level requirements as well. The achievement of this objective is necessary to unlock the potential of LH2 for decarbonising aviation. The outcome from this PhD plays a vital role in contributing in the Aviation Zero Emissions Technologies pathway of the CDT.

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

• 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.

The PhD student will gain multidisciplinary expertise in developing disruptive pumping technologies, including advanced fluid dynamic simulation, multi phase behaviour, and the mechanical and manufacturing considerations needed for integrating systems into future Net Zero aircraft. They will build strong capability in Multi Criteria Decision Analysis, enabling structured evaluation of technologies for sustainable aviation platforms. The work will also develop the ability to create and link reduced order component level and system level models—an essential skill for future decarbonisation challenges. Alongside these technical strengths, the student will cultivate an ecosystem level mindset that incorporates manufacturability, economics, maintenance, and operational factors, while also developing teamwork, leadership, and responsibility through engagement with upstream and downstream system components.

Entry requirements

First or second-class UK honours degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline such as aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related fields. Prior experience in numerical fluid dynamics is beneficial but not essential; determination, curiosity, and a willingness to learn are key attributes we value. Applicants with alternative qualifications, industry experience, or from diverse educational and professional backgrounds are also strongly encouraged to apply. We particularly welcome candidates from underrepresented groups in STEM, mature applicants, carers, or individuals returning to academia after career breaks, offering flexible working arrangements and support tailored to individual needs.

How to apply

For further information please contact:

Name: Dr David John Rajendran

Email: d.rajendran@cranfield.ac.uk

If you are eligible to apply, please complete the online application form.

1st Interview expected: 29 May 2026

2nd Interview expected: 5 June 2026

Applications should be submitted as soon as possible, as the interview process will begin within the application period due to high demand.

Funding Notes

Sponsored by the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Net Zero Aviation and Rolls-Royce plc., This opportunity provides a fully funded 4 year full-time PhD with £25,183 tax free annual stipend, and additional funding for international and national conferences, training and industrial placement.

This studentship is open to both Home and Overseas fee status students, however we are only permitted to offer a limited number of studentships to students with Overseas fee status. Further advice can be found on the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA)website.