PhD Studentship: Alloy Development for Hydrogen-Fuelled Aircraft Propulsion

About the role

The University of Cambridge offers a 3.5-year PhD studentship in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, within the Structural Materials Group, funded by the EPSRC and Rolls-Royce plc. The project studies hydrogen embrittlement in nickel-based superalloys used in hydrogen-powered gas turbines for civil aviation, in close collaboration with Rolls-Royce plc. It starts on 1 October 2027.

Key responsibilities

• Investigate the micro-mechanical mechanisms of hydrogen embrittlement in superalloys, focusing on crystal structure, grain size, composition and secondary phases.
• Characterise commercially available nickel-based superalloys after hydrogen charging using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, micro-mechanical testing with digital image correlation and atomic force microscopy.
• Use the results to guide the design of new hydrogen-resistant superalloys.

Required profile

• A good UK Master's degree (or overseas equivalent) in a relevant science subject such as Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics or Engineering.
• Self-motivated, able to take ownership of research and communicate findings clearly.
• Previous experience in the methods is advantageous; training in computational and experimental methods is provided.

What we offer

• Full funding for 3.5 years, including a personal maintenance stipend starting at £22,437 per year, with a £5,500 annual top-up from Rolls-Royce plc.
• Positions are open to UK citizens and eligible overseas students; exceptional overseas candidates may be eligible for an International Doctoral Scholar award.

Applications are made through the University's postgraduate application portal, quoting reference LJ51570; early applications are encouraged and the closing date is 1 December 2026.