Loughborough University
3 days ago
PhD in Aerodynamic Performance of Elite Road Cycling Loughborough University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Sports Science
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Aug 28, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
Loughborough University

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About this position
PhD opportunity at Loughborough University on The Effect of Environmental Conditions on the Aerodynamic Performance of Elite Road Cycling, in collaboration with Tudor Pro Cycling. The project sits at the intersection of aerodynamics, sports engineering, experimental aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and cycling performance optimisation.
The research will investigate how real-world environmental conditions affect elite road cyclists, including wind speed, yaw angle, turbulence intensity, Reynolds number, flow unsteadiness, surface roughness, boundary layer transition, and wake effects. Methods may include field measurements, wind-tunnel testing, on-bike instrumentation, pressure and force measurements, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), and CFD model development/validation. The aim is to quantify performance changes under realistic conditions and translate findings into practical optimisation strategies for riders, teams, and equipment decisions.
This is a 4-year fully funded PhD studentship. Funding includes a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per annum (2026/27 rate) plus UK tuition fees. The opportunity is only available to those eligible for UK fees; international fee funding is not applicable.
Eligibility: applicants should have or expect to achieve a good 2:1 or first-class honours (or equivalent) in an engineering degree such as Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a similar field. A strong understanding of low-speed aerodynamics and enthusiasm for road cycling are expected. Applicants must also meet the university’s English language requirements.
Deadline: 28 August 2026. Start date: October 2026. Location: Loughborough, United Kingdom.
How to apply: submit an online application, choose Campus “Loughborough” and Programme “Aeronautical Engineering Ph.D. (Full Time)”, and include reference AAE-DW-2609 and the project title. Contact the supervisor for queries.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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