PhD Studentship on Development of Next-Generation Combined Axial-Radial Flux Electric Machines for Extreme Power Density Applications

Project Brief This is an exciting opportunity to undertake cutting-edge research in partnership with Ricardo UK. The PhD project will focus on developing next-generation combined axial–radial flux electric machines for future defence and aerospace propulsion systems. The research will explore innovative machine topologies and advanced multi-physics design methodologies to enable electric machines with unprecedented power density and efficiency. Funding and Eligibility The studentship covers home tuition fees together with an annual tax-free stipend at the current UKRI rate. The scholarship is primarily intended for home applicants. Outstanding international candidates may also be considered in exceptional circumstances. Lead supervisor from University of Nottingham: Chris Gerada. Lead supervisor from Ricardo: Jay Al-Tayie. Vision Future defence and aerospace propulsion systems require electric machines with substantially higher power density than current technologies while maintaining exceptional efficiency, reliability and compact packaging. This PhD will establish a requirement-driven design methodology for next-generation extreme-power-density electric machines by investigating combined axial–radial flux machine architectures and enabling technologies for three-dimensional electromagnetic design. Motivation As electrification expands beyond automotive applications, conventional radial and axial flux machines are approaching their performance limits. Combined axial–radial flux machines provide a promising route towards more effective utilisation of machine volume through three-dimensional magnetic circuits. However, key challenges remain in topology selection, magnetic material utilisation, winding technologies and multi-physics optimisation. Addressing these challenges will support the development of future high-performance electrification technologies with broad industrial impact. Aim The project will investigate application requirements for future defence and aerospace propulsion systems before developing and optimising combined axial–radial flux machine concepts. The research will explore three-dimensional magnetic circuits, advanced magnetic materials, innovative winding configurations and multi-physics optimisation, ultimately delivering prototype-oriented design methodologies for future industrial applications. Who we are looking for: We are seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated candidate with a First Class or high Upper Second-Class degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline. Desirable experience includes: Electrical machines or electric drives; Electromagnetic finite element analysis; MATLAB or Python programming; An interest in electrified propulsion and industrially relevant research. Experience in electromagnetic design, thermal analysis, optimisation or electric machine testing would be advantageous, but is not essential. Research environment The successful candidate will join the Power Electronics, Machines and Control (PEMC) Research Institute at the University of Nottingham and work closely with Ricardo's PEMD team. The project will benefit from world-leading research facilities, extensive industrial collaboration and access to the UK's Electrification of Aerospace Propulsion facilities, providing an outstanding environment for developing next-generation electrified propulsion technologies. For further information, please contact Dr Linnan Sun linnan.sun@nottingham.ac.uk Proposed start date: Earliest 1 st October 2026