UK Space Agency to Fund 10 Rocketry PhD Placements – How to Apply!

9th Sep 2024

In a bid to help train the next generation of engineers, a scheme has been announced by UK Space Agency to fund 10 rocketry PhD placements around the UK.

Most of the projects start in January 2025 but there are some that get underway in October 2024. The placements are part of the UKSA’s Rocketry, Research, Teaching and Training Hub (R2T2).

UKSA to support the next generation of UK PhD rocket engineers

At the University of Glasgow, the PhD project is based in the Space Propulsion and Deep Exploration (SPADE) lab within the Space and Exploration Technology (SET) research group. The student will work with Orbex, focusing on optimising rocket engine propellant feed systems using advanced design processes. The project emphasises additive manufacturing for complex components, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to space launch hardware alongside industry leaders.

The University of Sheffield offers a PhD within the Aerospace Research Institute, where the research will involve enhancing rocket engine performance through precise control of additive manufacturing processes. The project will explore advanced combustion chamber designs using innovative materials and cooling techniques to optimise thermal control, efficiency, and robustness.

At Kingston University, the focus is on developing novel propellants for hybrid propulsion systems using Electrical Capacitance Tomography (ECT) and machine learning-driven data analysis. This project aims to innovate in the space and launch propulsion sectors through cutting-edge technologies and methodologies.

The University of Surrey collaborates with URA Thrusters Ltd. on developing electrothermal thrusters for solar-electric upper stages in launch vehicles. The project involves plasma physics, engineering modelling, and testing of thruster prototypes to enhance orbital capabilities.

A project at the University of Bristol, in partnership with Airborne Engineering, aims to apply Reinforcement Learning (RL) to the active control of rockets for both terrestrial and extraterrestrial applications. Building on the university’s expertise in drone flight control, this research will develop adaptable RL-based control systems for reusable rockets, extending their application to lunar and Martian challenges.

Cranfield University, in collaboration with Pulsar Fusion and Newton Launch Systems, offers a project on hydrogen storage for future space transportation. This research will investigate cryo-compression techniques and related challenges in storing and utilising hydrogen for long-term space missions.

At the University of Southampton, a PhD project focuses on the development of a rotating detonation engine (RDE), a cutting-edge propulsion technology. The project will involve designing a new propellant delivery system, setting up a water-cooled RDE experiment, and using advanced simulations to study detonation wave behaviour and improve engine performance.

The University of Strathclyde will facilitate a placement working with Skyrora, but the details have not yet been announced.

With a huge focus on the future of the UK’s space industry, there are many attempts to bridge the skills gap that may be created, and these ten placements set out to enhance the workforce.