PhD in Aero-engine Aerodynamics

Cranfield University

Start date: 26/09/2026

Studentship funding: Sponsored by EPSRC, Cranfield University and Rolls Royce, this studentship will provide a starting bursary of up to £20,780 (tax free) plus fees* for four years

Eligibility

Fee status: Home

Duration *: 4 years

1st Supervisor: David MacManus

2nd Supervisor: Pavlos Zachos

Opportunity Reference No: CRAN-0065

This is a fully funded PhD (fees and bursary) in propulsion system aerodynamics in collaboration with EPSRC, Rolls-Royce and Cranfield University. The measurement and evaluation of intake flow distortion is a crucial aspect of powerplant integration, operability and performance. This applies to podded as well as embedded propulsion systems. The standard approach to measure intake flow distortion is to use a relatively small number of total pressure probes ahead of the fan or compressor. It is acknowledged that this level of resolution is insufficient, but it is difficult to improve this using conventional intrusive measurements. Cranfield University has addressed this problem through non-intrusive particle image velocimetry (PIV) to measure the unsteady velocity field. This provides an increase in spatial resolution of about 2 orders of magnitude relative to the conventional total pressure rake and measures the full three-components of velocity.

The aim of the project is to develop, and exploit, an approach to synchronously measure the velocity and total pressure flow distortion. This would be a notable advance in the state of the art and is potentially a key stepping stone in reducing the reliance on intrusive flow field measurements.

The research will focus on the flow distortion that arises in a complex aero-engine intake. This is predominately a hands-on experimental aerodynamics project with the goal of developing an approach to synchronously acquire velocity and total pressure measurements. This will be a major advance on current experimental practice and will enable the assessment of the intake flow distortion in terms of the key elements that are known to affect the fan operability and performance. The project will build on previous successful programmes which have developed considerable expertise in the measurement of intake flow distortion using non-intrusive methods. The research will encompass rig design and development, advanced aerodynamic measurements, instrumentation integration, and advanced aerodynamic post processing for complex unsteady flows. The overall aim is advance intake flow field measurement methods that can be used in aero-engine design and testing.

The main impact of the work will be through Rolls-Royce where it will enable improvements to powerplant/airframe integration, aero-engine testing methods and compressor system operability. Unique opportunities for conference attendance, international workshops and industrial placements within Rolls-Royce are part of the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit students with an aerospace or mechanical engineering background. Experience of experimental aerodynamics, particle image velocimetry, flow or aerodynamic measurements, compressible flow, CAD would be an advantage. As part of this role you may be required to obtain UK Security Clearance.

Funding

This studentship is open to UK applicants only.

How to apply

For further information please contact:
Name: Prof. David MacManus
Email: d.g.macmanus@cranfield.ac.uk

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form via the above 'Apply' button.

Keywords: Aerodynamics, PhD, Aerospace, Experimental, Measurements, Propulsion, Aero-engine