Queen's University Belfast
2 weeks ago
PhD in Frameworks & Governance for Certification by Analysis of Complex Systems Queen's University Belfast in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Mechanical Engineering
Funding
Funded studentship covering tuition fees and a maintenance stipend of £26,910 per annum. The post also notes an industry gross salary of £34,000 (pre-tax, with student loan repayment, pension at 3%, and national insurance contributions) as approximately equivalent take-home pay.
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
Queen's University Belfast

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About this position
PhD opportunity at Queen's University Belfast in the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering on Frameworks & Governance for the Certification by Analysis of Complex Systems.
This funded doctoral project explores how modelling and simulation (M&S) can support certification by analysis (CbA) for complex systems, reducing reliance on costly physical testing while maintaining safety and quality. The research will examine current standards, industrial and certification-body thinking, develop a cohesive roadmap/framework for CbA, and assess organisational readiness for using CbA in real systems.
Core research themes include engineering simulation, compliance assurance, verification and validation (V&V), uncertainty quantification (UQ), trust in people/processes, and benchmarking simulation approaches against physical tests. The project is expected to include literature and technical review, gap analysis, implementation and assessment of CbA methods, and at least two case studies across multiple disciplines or technologies.
The work is centred on aerospace applications but is intended to be transferable to other complex systems and industrial sectors. The successful student will gain experience with advanced commercial simulation tools, industrial practice, and collaboration with company partners as well as the Queen's research team.
Funding: fully funded studentship covering tuition fees plus a maintenance stipend of £26,910 per annum. The post is open to UK Nationals only.
Deadline: 30 November 2026. Start date: 1 October 2026.
Supervisor: Dr Joe Butterfield.
Funding details
Funded studentship covering tuition fees and a maintenance stipend of £26,910 per annum. The post also notes an industry gross salary of £34,000 (pre-tax, with student loan repayment, pension at 3%, and national insurance contributions) as approximately equivalent take-home pay.
What's required
Applicants should be suitable for full-time PhD study and able to work on modelling and simulation, compliance assurance, verification and validation (V&V), uncertainty quantification (UQ), and complex systems certification. The studentship is open to UK Nationals only. The project is interdisciplinary and involves industrial engagement; experience or interest in aerospace applications and engineering simulation would be advantageous.
How to apply
Use the Apply Now link on the Queen's University Belfast PhD opportunity page to submit an application. Review the project details and eligibility carefully before applying. Register interest if needed and apply before 30 November 2026.
More information can be found here
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