ESPRC IDLA Studentship - Research into Low order modelling of Rotating Detonation Engines

Applications are invited for a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship at the University of Cambridge to conduct research into low order models of a rotating detonation engine, in collaboration with Rolls-Royce under the Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award (IDLA) scheme.

Rotating Detonation Engines offer a potential improvement towards lower weight/higher power propulsion systems compared to to conventional gas turbine engines. This project involves the development of a skeleton simplified model for a rotating detonation engine (RDE), using existing models, which will be coded it in a way that makes it simple to access potential performance using realistic thermodynamics. Validation will be conducted using higher fidelity models (RANS and/or LES) and potential experiments. The model will eventually extend to liquid fuels and integrate with a gas turbine simulation platform to simulate the overall system. The project is funded by Rolls-Royce and EPSRC, and belongs to a larger overall initiative on advanced propulsion concepts.

The student is expected to undertake the following activities:

• Training in thermodynamic modelling of compressible and supersonic systems
• Translate existing thermodynamic codes for chemical modelling and detonation toolbox into open source code
• Implement existing eigenvalue simulation for determination of RDE frequency and cycle properties as a function of operating condition
• Validate the implemented code against existing higher fidelity simulations and experimental results
• Extension of the code to include different fuels, geometries and interfaces with compressor and turbine
• Produce periodic progress reports and present and engage with company specialists
• Attend International Conferences and submit papers to Journals
• Attend Annual Doctoral Conference/Symposia organised by Rolls-Royce and other related organisations

Qualifications: Applicants should have (or expect to be awarded) a good UK Master's degree (or overseas equivalent) in a relevant science subject (Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics), preferably with a focus on fluid mechanics and numerical methods, with some programming experience (Python/C++). The applicant should be self-motivated, but able to work as part of a team, and effectively communicate their research findings.

EPSRC IDLA studentships are four-year awards that cover full fees and maintenance, and are available for eligible home students and a limited number of international students.

To apply for this studentship, please send your two page CV to Prof Simone Hochgreb (sh372@cam.ac.uk) to arrive no later than 28 February 2027. Applications may close early if the position is filled before this date.

Please note that any offer of funding will be conditional on securing a place as a PhD student. Candidates will need to apply separately for admission through the University's Graduate Admissions application portal; this can be done before or after applying for this funding opportunity. The applicant portal can be accessed via: Egegpdpeg. The final deadline for PhD applications is 14 May 2027, although it is advisable to apply earlier than this.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.