Next-Gen Wind Turbine Blades: Whisper-Quiet Innovations with Aerodynamic Efficiency

Applications are invited for one full-time PhD studentship within the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering supported by Vestas Technology (UK) Ltd, one of the largest wind turbine manufacturers in the world. The studentship will commence on 1 October 2025, or soon thereafter, and will be tenable for 3.5 years.

The successful applicant must hold UK or EU citizenship and will receive an annual tax-free stipend starting at £21,795, and full payment of UK/EU tuition fees. International applicants are also encouraged to apply. However, they'll be required to cover the difference between International and UK/EU tuition fees independently. International students will receive the same stipend amount as UK/EU students.

The project

This PhD research aims to elevate wind turbine blade technology by advancing owl-wing and other bio-inspired designs for noise reduction and aerodynamic efficiency. Key objectives include:

  • Developing innovative serration and permeable surface designs to further reduce trailing edge noise.
  • Conducting detailed fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and aeroacoustics investigations to understand the mechanisms behind noise reduction.
  • Collaborating with industry on the design of next-generation wind turbine blades.
  • Disseminating findings through conferences, workshops, and peer-reviewed publications.

You'll primarily conduct research at Brunel University of London, including the in-house aeroacoustics wind tunnel. You'll have opportunities for collaboration with experts at Vestas Wind Systems (Southampton and Denmark), and participation in large-scale testing in Denmark to validate industrial applications of your research.

This project is an excellent opportunity for candidates who are interested in a fast-track career in Wind Turbine Industry that is allied to an environmentally sustainable energy future, or academic career in the aerodynamics, fluid mechanics and aeroacoustics fields. Joining this project means contributing to pioneering, environmentally focused research within an industrial context while advancing your professional and personal development.

Skills and experience required:

  • A strong personal interest in experimental aerodynamics/aeroacoustics and environmentally sustainable technology is highly valued.
  • Skills in data analysis and flow physics interpretation are essential.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with excellent communication skills.
  • An inquisitive approach to research along with scientific rigor, strong intellect and disciplined work habits.
  • Enthusiasm and self-motivation.

Informal enquires may be addressed to Professor Tze Pei Chong by email to t.p.chong@brunel.ac.uk 

Eligibility

Applicants will have or be expected to receive a minimum 2:1 or 1st-class degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or a related engineering discipline. A Master's qualification is an advantage but not essential. 

How to apply

Please e-mail your application comprising of all the documents listed below in ONE PDF file to cedps-pgr-office@brunel.ac.uk as well as t.p.chong@brunel.ac.uk by 15 August 2025:

  • Your up-to-date CV;
  • A research statement of 500-1,000 words setting out your project ideas;
  • A one A4 page personal statement setting out why you are a suitable candidate (i.e. your skills and experience);
  • A copy of your degree certificate(s) and full transcript(s);
  • Names and contact details for two academic referees;
  • Evidence of English language capability to IELTS 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in all sections), if applicable.

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received. Therefore, we encourage early submission, as the position may be filled before the stated deadline. 

Meet the Supervisor(s)

Tze Pei Chong -