PhD with Rolls-Royce in Future Propulsion and Power

The Supervisor for this PhD opportunity will be confirmed in April 2023. Mrs Sharon Hayward-Fryer is the point of contact for all enquiries into this position.

Project details

The fully funded studentship in Future Propulsion and Power is a 4-year programme: 1-year master's leading to the MRes in Future Propulsion and Power at Cambridge University, followed by a 3-year PhD project at Loughborough University.

Our projects focus both on the detail of key technologies and on the integrated nature of the gas turbine as a whole. This programme will teach the skills, and provide the necessary environment, to develop research that delivers both academic excellence and maximum industrial impact. You will be part of the Loughborough Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC), widely recognised as a world leading research centre, taking part in the development of modern aero-engines - working in a dynamic and highly competitive environment. 

The UTC is based in the National Centre for Combustion and Aerothermal Technology (NCCAT), a multi-million-pound development acting as the UK’s primary hub for research focusing on the development of future low emission aerospace combustion systems, reducing the environmental impact of aircraft, with opportunities for wider exploitation beyond aerospace.

PhD projects will be developed during year one (MRes at Cambridge), which will be relevant to current and future technologies being developed by Rolls-Royce, with whom we work closely. Loughborough has a specific track record of research excellence in gas turbine aerothermal processes, one of the three major components of turbomachinery (compressor, combustor and turbine). 

CDT students will benefit hugely from the network of experts and portfolio of skills they have built up at the heart of the CDT.

Find out more:

EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training

Entry requirements

Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.

Entry requirements for United Kingdom

Applicants are likely to have an engineering background with some specialisation in fluid mechanics and thermodynamics; students from related fields will also be considered. Students are normally expected to have a 2:1 or first class honours degree from a UK university or an equivalent international qualification.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.

We offer a tax-free stipend of £21,373 (2022/23 rate) per annum, plus tuition fees (UK rate), to those who are eligible to pay UK fees. A limited number of places may be available to international students, covering fees (UK rate), plus a stipend. UKRI funding will not cover international fees. The fee difference will have to be met through other sources. To be eligible for the full award, please ensure you meet the ESPRC eligibility criteria.

How to apply

All applications should be made via Cambridge Admissions stating course code EGEGR8 EPSRC CDT MRes + PhD Future Propulsion and Power.