Aerodynamic design and optimisation of high-speed air induction systems for more efficient supersonic transport applications - PhD

We are looking for PhD candidates to join our team as part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Net Zero Aviation. This is a fully funded PhD (fees and bursary) in propulsion aerodynamics in collaboration with EPSRC, Dstl and Cranfield University.

This project falls within the disciplines of propulsion-airframe integration and high-speed aerodynamics. It focuses on developing advanced design methods to optimize the interaction between the aircraft body and its engine air induction system. This work will provide the technical foundation needed to make next-generation high-speed platforms environmentally and operationally sustainable.

The project aims to deliver a novel method for the aerodynamic design and optimisation of future high speed aircraft transport systems. It focuses on improving the integration between novel intake configurations and complex diffusers to deliver steadier engine inflow, reduce aerodynamic drag, and increase payload capacity.

As part of this project, you will join a multidisciplinary team with experience in numerical simulations, propulsion integration, intake flow distortion, and aerodynamic design and optimisation.

The research will deliver a framework for high-speed intake-airframe integration. By optimizing aerodynamic efficiency and engine inflow stability, the project aims to achieve significant reductions in energy consumption and mission-level emissions. Key outcomes include optimized intake-ramp schedules and boundary-layer management guidelines that reduce drag and enhance pressure recovery. Ultimately, this work will identify the feasible design space for sustainable high-speed flight by providing the tools necessary to maximize propulsion efficiency while maintaining robust operational margins.

This programme provides the PhD candidate with an outstanding opportunity to work closely with Dstl engineers across a range of disciplines for the development of future aerospace technologies and capabilities. During the PhD programme there will be regular reviews and presentation opportunities with Dstl as well as the chance to attend specialist MSc modules if needed. In addition, the PhD candidate will be able to attend international conferences and workshops.

Through this project, the student will develop a high-level technical skillset in advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), multi-disciplinary design optimisation, and propulsion-airframe integration. Beyond technical expertise, the student will gain vital transferable skills in systems engineering, project management and optimisation processes. Graduates will emerge as future leaders capable of bridging the gap between complex aerodynamic research, industrial application, and sustainability policy.

At a glance

Application deadline03 Jun 2026
Award type(s)PhD
Start date28 Sep 2026
Duration of award4 years (full-time)
EligibilityUK, Rest of world
Reference numberCRAN-0077

Supervisor

1st Supervisor: Dr Fernando Tejero

2nd Supervisor: Dr Pavlos Zachos

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 computational fluid dynamics, compressible flow, aerodynamic analysis and optimisation would be an advantage. Broader experience of engineering computational modelling and optimisation methods would also be and advantage. As part of this role, you may be required to obtain UK Security Clearance.

Funding

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. Eligibility for Home fee status is determined with reference to UK Department for Education rules. As a guiding principle UK or Irish nationals who are ordinarily resident in either the UK or Republic of Ireland pay Home tuition fees. All other students (including those from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man) pay Overseas fees. Further advice can be found on the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website

Diversity and Inclusion at Cranfield

We are committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in our CDT program, and warmly encourage applications from students of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. We particularly welcome students with disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, and those who identify with diverse ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses. Cranfield strives to provide an accessible and inclusive environment to enable all doctoral candidates to thrive and achieve their full potential.

At Cranfield, we value our diverse staff and student community and maintain a culture where everyone can work and study together harmoniously with dignity and respect. This is reflected in our University values of ambition, impact, respect and community. We welcome students and staff from all backgrounds from over 100 countries and support our staff and students to realise their full potential, from academic achievement to mental and physical wellbeing.

We are committed to progressing the diversity and inclusion agenda, for example; gender diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through our Athena SWAN Bronze award and action plan, we are members of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) and Working Families, and sponsors of International Women in Engineering Day. We are also Disability Confident Level 1 Employers and members of the Business Disability Forum and Stonewall University Champions Programme.

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.