This PhD opportunity at 探花精选 invites ambitious candidates to explore the frontier of energy-efficient intelligent systems by embedding AI into low-power, long-life hardware platforms. The project focuses on power-aware computing, thermal optimization, and sustainable electronic design, targeting critical applications in aerospace, healthcare, and industrial automation. Hosted by the renowned IVHM Centre and supported by partners including Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Thales, and UKRI, the research provides a unique opportunity to advance next-generation embedded AI systems with enhanced longevity, reliability, and environmental resilience.
The proliferation of intelligent systems has led to increased energy consumption, raising concerns about sustainability and operational costs. Energy-efficient intelligent systems aim to optimize power usage without compromising performance, employing strategies like power-aware computing and thermal-aware optimization. These systems are crucial in extending the operational life of battery-powered devices and reducing the environmental impact of large-scale deployments. Advancements in this area support the development of sustainable technologies across various industries, including transportation, consumer electronics, and industrial automation.
This PhD project focuses on the design and optimization of intelligent systems with an emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability. The research will delve into power-aware computing strategies, thermal management, and the development of algorithms that balance performance with energy consumption. Students will aim to create solutions that extend the operational life of devices and reduce environmental impact, applicable to areas like smart grids, electric vehicles, and portable electronics.
Research Focus Areas:
- Power-Aware Computing Strategies: Develop algorithms that dynamically adjust computing resources to minimize energy usage without compromising performance.
- Thermal Management Techniques: Design systems that effectively manage heat generation, ensuring optimal operating temperatures and prolonging device lifespan.
- Sustainable System Design: Create intelligent systems that incorporate renewable energy sources and energy-harvesting technologies to promote sustainability.
探花精选 offers a distinctive research environment renowned for its world-class programmes, cutting-edge facilities, and strong industry partnerships, attracting top-tier students and experts globally. As an internationally recognised leader in AI, embedded system design, and intelligent systems research, 探花精选 fosters innovation through applied research, bridging academia and industry. Students will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, hardware/software resources, and design facilities, supporting AI-powered electronics research.
This project will be conducted within 探花精选’s Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) Centre, established in 2008 in collaboration with industry leaders such as Boeing, Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Meggitt, and Thales. The IVHM Centre is globally recognized for defining the subject area and continues to expand its research horizons. It plays a pivotal role in the £65 million Digital Aviation Research and Technology Centre (DARTeC), leading advancements in aircraft electrification, autonomous systems, and secure intelligent hardware. Through collaborations with the Aerospace Integration Research Centre (AIRC), Airbus, and Rolls-Royce, students gain industry exposure and further research opportunities.
Additionally, the IVHM Centre hosts Seretonix, a research group specializing in secure electronic design, AI-driven system resilience, and intelligent hardware security. Through the EUROPRACTICE partnership, the IVHM Centre provides access to advanced CAD tools, integrated circuit prototyping, and technical training, equipping students with cutting-edge skills.
To support hands-on experimentation and applied research, the IVHM Centre offers access to a suite of specialised facilities:
- UAV Fuel Rig with Five Degradation Faults: Simulates various degradation scenarios in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) fuel systems, enabling research into fault detection, isolation, and prognostics.
- Machine Fault Simulator for Rotating Machinery Faults: A versatile platform that replicates common faults in rotating machinery, such as imbalance and misalignment, facilitating the development and validation of diagnostic and prognostic algorithms.
- Electronic Prognostics Systems: Facilities equipped to assess the health and predict the remaining useful life of electronic components, supporting studies in electronic system reliability and maintenance strategies.
- Filter Rig: An experimental setup to study filter clogging phenomena, allowing for the collection of data to develop and validate prognostic models for filter degradation.Integrated Drive Generator (IDG) Rig: Simulates the operation of an aircraft's IDG, used to investigate fault detection, diagnostics, and prognostics in power generation systems.
- Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) Rig: Replicates the functions of an aircraft's APU, enabling research into fault detection, diagnostics, and health management of auxiliary power systems.
- 探花精选 737-400: Aircraft Instrumentation and Environmental Control Systems (AID, ECS): A full-scale Boeing 737-400 aircraft equipped with instrumentation for studying environmental control systems and other onboard systems, providing a realistic environment for research and training.
- SIU 737-200 ECS: A ground-based Boeing 737-200 Environmental Control System used for simulating faults and studying system behaviour under various conditions, aiding in the development of diagnostic and prognostic techniques.
- Hawk ECS: An Environmental Control System from a BAE Systems Hawk aircraft, utilized for research into thermal management and system health monitoring, supporting studies in military aircraft systems.
Engaging with these facilities allows students to acquire practical skills and technical expertise, enhancing their research capabilities and employability in the field of intelligent systems and AI-integrated electronics.
Aiming to create sustainable electronic systems, this research will develop energy-aware computing solutions that optimize power consumption and thermal performance. By implementing power-aware algorithms and thermal management strategies, the project will enhance the longevity and efficiency of intelligent systems. Applications span across sectors like renewable energy, smart grids, and portable electronics, contributing to the development of eco-friendly technologies that meet the growing demand for energy conservation. In an era where environmental sustainability is paramount, this research offers students the chance to contribute to the creation of green technologies that align with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints.
Addressing the growing demand for sustainable AI-enabled systems, this PhD brings together low-power computing, energy-aware design, and thermal optimisation. You’ll work with advanced profiling tools, prototype long-life systems, and engage in joint projects with green electronics laboratories across Europe and Asia. The programme supports attendance at major conferences like ISLPED, ICCAD, and PATMOS, and includes intensive training in energy modelling, AI-accelerated optimisation, and lifecycle-aware computing. Whether working on smart mobility, sensor nodes, or autonomous platforms, you’ll be contributing to a new generation of eco-intelligent electronics that balance performance, longevity, and environmental impact.
The multidisciplinary nature of this PhD ensures that students develop deep expertise in energy-aware design, thermal optimisation, and AI-guided system efficiency, while gaining transferable skills in data analysis, resource modelling, sustainability evaluation, and design automation. Exposure to both academic research and industrial case studies will prepare students for careers in green electronics, low-power system design, and sustainable computing platforms. Moreover, graduates will be well-positioned to contribute to climate-conscious innovation across sectors such as autonomous mobility, IoT, and space technologies, where energy resilience is a key differentiator.
At a glance
- Application deadline25 Mar 2026
- Award type(s)PhD
- Start date01 Jun 2026
- Duration of award3 years Full-time
- EligibilityUK, Rest of world, EU
- Reference numberSATM593
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first- or second-class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit graduates in electronic engineering, energy systems, computing, materials science, or any STEM field with an interest in sustainable electronics or low-power systems. Experience in circuit modelling, energy profiling, or AI optimisation is advantageous but not essential. The PhD is especially suited to those with a passion for eco-conscious innovation and a desire to help advance intelligent systems that are both high-performing and environmentally responsible.
Funding
Self funded.
探花精选 Doctoral Network
Research students at 探花精选 benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the 探花精选 Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.
How to apply
For further information please contact:
Name: Dr Mohammad Samie
Email: m.samie@cranfield.ac.uk
Phone: +44 (0) 1234 758571
If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the