Despite improvements in the energy efficiency of aircraft, the growth in passenger volumes is likely to leave aviation sector with positive emissions by 2050. The limited role of biofuels in aviation necessitates the development of novel technologies like hybrid-electric or hydrogen-fuelled aircraft, as noted in the government’s Transport Decarbonisation Plan and Jet Zero Strategy. Yet, how airports can manage their existing infrastructure systems whilst moving to a net zero infrastructure system is unknown.
 
See this in particular on the need to develop holistic solutions to enable decarbonisation of aviation sector:
 
I am keen to work with British nationals to develop ideas to secure a PhD studentship. 探花精选 is part of several networks to enable this. Just get in touch with me if this is an area of research that you want to work on.

Social sciences, complexity science, socio-technical transitions.

The aim of this project is to design and develop a decision-making tool to support airports’ transition to low carbon energy systems.

I will support you to develop this idea into a UKRI PhD studentship and seek funding.

Enabling the development of low carbon energy systems at airports is very complex as it involvement of a lot of actors and assessment of different technology choices. There is limited research on planning of this infrastructure transition.

There will be opportunities for you to work with an airport and potentially undertake a placement there.     

Great opportunity to observe how your research can make a real difference.

At a glance

  • Application deadlineOngoing
  • Award type(s)PhD
  • Start date28 Sep 2026
  • Duration of award3.5 years Full time. 7 years Part time
  • EligibilityUK
  • Reference numberCRAN-0027

Entry requirements

Applicants should have at least a 2:1 or equivalent in a related discipline.

Funding

The student will be supported to develop a proposal to secure studentship funding from UKRI. If your application is successful, you will be receiving a minimum full鈥恡ime stipend of £20,780 per annum plus fees* for three years.

 

Diversity and Inclusion at 探花精选

We are committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in our CDT program, and warmly encourage applications from students of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. We particularly welcome students with disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, and those who identify with diverse ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses. 探花精选 strives to provide an accessible and inclusive environment to enable all doctoral candidates to thrive and achieve their full potential. 

At 探花精选, we value our diverse staff and student community and maintain a culture where everyone can work and study together harmoniously with dignity and respect. This is reflected in our University values of ambition, impact, respect and community. We welcome students and staff from all backgrounds from over 100 countries and support our staff and students to realise their full potential, from academic achievement to mental and physical wellbeing. 

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

If this is an area of research that interests you please contact Professor Nazmiye Ozkan n.ozkan@cranfield.ac.uk who will be happy to discuss and guide you in the next steps.