PhD Studentship: Market-Based Solutions for Sustainable Aviation Under Multiagent Intelligence

Overview

The Brahmal Institute offers a 3.5-year Doctoral Programme in Sustainable Aviation for October 2027 under the strategic theme of sustainability across stakeholders. This interdisciplinary research initiative examines aviation sustainability from a systems perspective, encompassing airports, airlines, air traffic management, aircraft, and passengers. Participants engage in shared learning, specialist training, networking, and outreach activities. The specific research project utilizes multi-agent-based modelling to analyze how airlines and fuel producers react to market-based solutions for sustainable aviation fuels, evaluating how policy combinations such as carbon pricing, mandates, and subsidies influence investment, adoption, and emissions reduction through 2050.

Who can apply

Both Home and International students may apply for this opportunity. Applicants must hold or expect to obtain a first-class honours Master's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering or related fields like Computational Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics. Candidates need a strong background in numerical methods and scientific computing, a demonstrated understanding of and passion for sustainability, and the capacity to work independently with minimal supervision.

What you get

The studentship provides full coverage of tuition fees, a travel budget, and an annual tax-free stipend of 23,805 GBP.

Requirements

Applicants must possess the ability to develop and apply new concepts, prioritize tasks under deadlines, approach problem-solving creatively, and organize their own work. Candidates are also required to demonstrate excellent verbal and written technical communication skills, along with the ability to write clearly and succinctly for publication.

How to apply

Candidates must submit their applications through the designated university application portal, addressing the submission to The Brahmal Vasudevan Institute and including the reference BI0003. Applicants must type Aeronautics Research (PhD) into the programme search bar and select Brahmal Institute as the group. Instead of a research statement, applicants must attach a one-page A4 letter of interest containing responses to two specific questions, with a maximum of 200 words per answer: the steps taken and future plans to become a sustainability leader, and the reasons why their background and experience suit the Doctoral Programme in Sustainable Aviation.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 4 January 2027. The programme commences in October 2027.