PhD project in Aero-engine and aircraft noise research: multiple opportunities from multi-fidelity modelling to community impact
PhD @University of Southampton posted 2 days agoJob Description
About the project
The projects offered span from fast, empirical tools for aero-engine noise prediction, based on high-fidelity CFD or experiments, to full-aircraft and fleet-level noise modelling. These projects will be conducted within the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre in Propulsion Systems Noise.
These PhD projects will be hosted within the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Propulsion Systems Noise at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR), University of Southampton. The UTC is a world-leading hub for aeroacoustics research, offering close collaboration with the Rolls-Royce noise engineering team. This provides a unique opportunity to contribute to real-world challenges and make a tangible impact on the future of quieter, more sustainable aviation.
Projects span a wide range of topics, from fast, empirical engineering tools for aero-engine noise prediction to high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD), experimental investigations, and full-aircraft and fleet-level noise modelling. The primary focus will be on commercial aircraft with conventional turbofan and novel propulsion types.
You will benefit from a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment at ISVR, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant postgraduate community. The University of Southampton is internationally recognised for its excellence in acoustics and aerospace research. You will have opportunities to attend international conferences, workshops, and training events, and to engage with a global network of researchers and industry experts.
Entry requirements
You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent, in one of the following:
- maths
- physics
- engineering
Desirable skills:
- experience in computational or experimental fluid dynamics or aeroacoustics
- coding experience in MATLAB or Python
As a candidate applying to join a Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre, you will need to undergo baseline security checks.
Fees and funding
For UK and Horizon Europe students, tuition fees will be paid and you’ll receive a stipend (living allowance) of £20,780 tax-free per year for up to 3.5 years.
Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students
How to apply
You need to:
- choose programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- select Full time or Part time
- choose the relevant PhD in Engineering
- add name of the supervisor in section 2
Applications should include:
- a personal statement
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 academic references
- degree transcripts to date
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
If you have a general question, email our doctoral college (feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk).
Project leader
For an initial conversation, email Professor Alec Wilson (A.G.Wilson@soton.ac.uk).
