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Christie Maddock

11 months ago

PhD in Digital Twin Development for Advanced Rocket Propulsion Systems at University of Strathclyde University of Strathclyde in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Mechanical Engineering

Funding

Fully funded for UK home applicants, covering tuition fees for up to 4 years, a stipend at the UK Research Council rate (£20,780 for 2025/26, increasing in subsequent years), and a generous Research Training and Support grant. Funding includes research training, travel costs, and access to hot-fire test facilities.

Deadline

Expired

Country flag

Country

United Kingdom

University

University Of Strathclyde

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Keywords

Mechanical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Simulation Training
Digital Twin Technology
Space Technology
System Dynamics
Business Analytics
C
Rocket Propulsion
Instrumentation And Control

About this position

This fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Strathclyde focuses on developing digital twin architectures for advanced rocket propulsion systems in collaboration with Skyrora Ltd, a leading UK space company. The project is part of the Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) on Rocketry Research, Teaching & Training (R2T2), supported by the UK Space Agency, UKRI, and STFC. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of aerospace engineering, systems modelling, simulation, data analytics, and control engineering to transform rocket engine testing and performance optimisation.

The research aims to integrate real-time sensor data, control feedback, and historical test data to enable predictive diagnostics, test automation, and performance optimisation for Skyrora’s 70 kN and 400 kN propulsion systems. The position offers hands-on experience with hot-fire test facilities, real data streams, and a unique environment for launch-vehicle development.

Applicants must be UK home students with a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline and a strong interest in engineering and the space sector. Experience with rocketry is a plus. Funding covers tuition, stipend, research training, and travel costs. The application deadline is 14 November 2025, and the start date is January 2026.

To apply, candidates should email their CV, supporting statement, and transcripts to Dr Christie Maddock. This opportunity is ideal for those passionate about digital systems, aerospace, and rocket propulsion, offering a pathway to a career in the space/propulsion sector.

Funding details

Fully funded for UK home applicants, covering tuition fees for up to 4 years, a stipend at the UK Research Council rate (£20,780 for 2025/26, increasing in subsequent years), and a generous Research Training and Support grant. Funding includes research training, travel costs, and access to hot-fire test facilities.

What's required

Applicants must be UK home students with a Master's degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, or a relevant discipline. Demonstrated interest in engineering and the space sector is required; experience with rocketry is desirable. Applicants should be motivated and driven to contribute to space launch and propulsion systems. Submission of CV, supporting statement, and university transcripts is required.

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Professors

Senior Lecturer

University Name
Country flag

United Kingdom

Research Interests

Aerospace Engineering

Business Analytics

Space Technology

Optimization Theory

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