Research Studentship in Aerodynamics

3.5-year D.Phil. studentship

Project: Boundary layer transition induced by real roughness

Supervisor:  Prof John Coull

The thermal efficiency of gas turbines and jet engines are limited by the maximum temperature of components in the High Pressure Turbine immediately downstream of the combustion chambers. In particular, the blade tip of the high pressure turbine is subject to high heat loads, due to flow passing through clearance gaps, and is particularly difficult to cool.

This project builds on a long relationship between Oxford and Rolls-Royce plc. We will develop an existing facility (the High Speed linear Cascade) to examine new means of cooling blade tips, and to explore novel geometries that provide both aerodynamic and thermal benefits. Our studies will be grounded in the complex trade-offs and restrictions that face engineers, for example to include stress and manufacturing considerations, and to study how deterioration over the life of an engine will affect the optimal designs.

The project will have a focus on experimental measurements, but will also include a large computational element. You would work closely with our industrial partner to ensure the results of your work have maximum impact on the real world.

Eligibility 

This studentship is funded by Rolls-Royce and is open to Home students (full award - home fees plus stiped).

Award Value

Course fees are covered at the level set for Home students c. £10,470 p.a. The stipend (tax-free maintenance grant) is the UKRI Minimum Stipend c. £20,780 p.a. for the first year, and at least this amount for a further two and a half years.

Candidate Requirements

Candidates will be judged according to how well they meet the following criteria:

• A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate honours degree in Engineering, Physics or Materials Science
• Strong fundamental understanding of Fluid Mechanics
• Motivation and interest in the project
• Good communication skills 

The following skills are also highly desirable:

• Experience with programming (eg Matlab)
• Experience with Experimental Fluid Mechanics and/or Heat Transfer
• Experience with Computational Fluid Mechanics and/or Heat Transfer

Application Procedure

Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be addressed to Prof John Coull john.coull@eng.ox.ac.uk. Candidates must submit a graduate application form and are expected to meet the graduate admissions criteria. Details are available on the course page of the University website.

Please quote 26ENGTH_JC in all correspondence and in your graduate application.

Application deadline: noon on 3 March 2026 (In line with the University admissions deadline set by the University)

Start date: October 2026