Contact Dr Zhengfei He
- Tel: 01234 758239
- Email: Z.He@cranfield.ac.uk
Areas of expertise
- Aeronautical Systems
- Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
- Gas Turbines & Propulsion
- Hydrogen
- Systems Engineering
Background
Dr Zhengfei He is a research fellow focused on gas turbine engineering, hybrid-electric aircraft propulsion, gas turbine electrification and cycle innovation.
Zhengfei received his PhD at Cranfield University in 2025 with his thesis title of “Impact of Electrification Strategies on the Design, Performance and Operational Space of Future Turbofan Engines”. He received his bachelor's degree from the Civil Aviation University of China in 2020 and holds an MSc degree in Thermal Power (Aerospace Propulsion option) from Cranfield University.
He is working on innovations in aircraft propulsion systems, including cycle and system electrification. His research focus extends to aircraft system electrification and hydrogen technology application. Zhengfei commits his research and academic career to advancing the net-zero emissions aircraft, sustainable aviation and the jet-zero strategy.
Research opportunities
Zhengfei is currently working on the HEAVEN project on the aircraft environmental control system (ECS) and its impact on improving the efficiency of the gas turbine and propulsion system.
Zhengfei's research interest also lies in the novel electrified aircraft propulsion system, including novel electrified concepts and cycle innovation, including gas turbine electric power assistance, gas turbine peak power shaving (core-resizing), and fuel cell steam injection. His research aims to achieve the 2050 net-zero emission target and explore the design space of future aircraft propulsion systems.
Zhengfei's expertise includes gas turbine performance and simulation, propulsion system performance and integration, engine efficiency, cycle optimisation, lifing enhancement, fuel cell and steam injection.