Autonomous Technologies in Structural Health Monitoring for Sustainable Lightweight Structures (EPSRC CDT Net Zero Aviation, Fully Funded PhD) Cardiff University in United Kingdom

Join the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Net Zero Aviation at Cardiff University for a fully funded PhD project focused on autonomous technologies in structural health monitoring for sustainable lightweight structures. This opportunity is in collaboration with Testia, an Airbus company, and aims to revolutionize the future of aviation by developing real-time acousto-ultrasonic monitoring systems for composite structures. The project integrates physics-driven modelling, machine learning, and IoT-enabled autonomous monitoring to detect and classify structural damage, optimize maintenance strategies, and extend the service life of critical aviation infrastructure.

The research will involve the development of digital twins to accurately model structural ultrasonic waveguides, extraction and synchronization of acoustic fingerprints from damage events, and creation of a real-time damage identification toolbox. Experiments will be conducted using ultrasonic sensors on test structures, combining data-driven insights with physics-based understanding to provide quantified metrics and confidence estimates for emerging damage.

As a PhD student, you will join Cardiff’s Computational Mechanics and Engineering AI research group, benefiting from access to world-class facilities including the Cardiff University Structural Performance (CUSP) laboratories and high-performance computing resources. The project includes a minimum three-month fully funded industrial placement at Testia in Bremen, with regular access to their team and mentorship from industry experts. You will also participate in cohort-based training at Cranfield University during the initial nine months, and have access to a network of approximately 40 industrial, government, and research partners within the Net Zero CDT programme.

Graduates of this CDT will gain interdisciplinary technical and professional skills, a deep understanding of the aviation ecosystem, and a sustainability-driven mindset, preparing them to lead the decarbonisation of aviation across industry, academia, government, and policy.

Applicants should hold or expect to gain a first or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Civil, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related subject, or a master's degree. Previous laboratory or field experience is advantageous. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in programming and computational tools relevant to mechanics and/or AI, possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and have a passion for research in structural engineering. Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).

To apply, submit your application via the Cardiff University postgraduate study webpages, including your CV, personal statement, academic references, and transcripts. Select Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering) with a start date of October 2026, specify the project title and supervisors, and reference AK CDT 26 in the funding section. The deadline for applications is 19th June 2026, but the opportunity may close earlier if a suitable candidate is identified.