PhD Studentship in Aeronautics: The Chemistry of Contrails (AE0090)

Start date: Between 1st August 2027 and 1st July 2028

Application deadline: 23:59 on 4th January 2027 (UK time)

Introduction: Aircraft condensation trails (contrails) are thought to be responsible for up to half of aviation's overall contribution to climate change, and eliminating them has become a priority for aviation sustainability. Understanding the exact consequences of a contrail in different circumstances remains a significant challenge - and one which you can help with. You will be tasked with investigating the chemistry of contrails - the role that these artificial ice clouds might have in modifying the atmosphere not by changing the climate, but by providing a surface on which atmospheric chemistry takes place. You will develop expertise in simulation of ice clouds and atmospheric chemistry-transport modelling using the Imperial High Performance Computing facilities, while also engaging with the challenges of informed decision making regarding aircraft design and aviation policy. Depending on how your research develops you can also expect to learn about satellite and in-situ evaluation of aviation impacts, possible technical mechanisms of impact mitigation, and the role of operational constraints.

Throughout your studies you will be a member of the Aerospace Environmental Impacts Simulation (AEIS) group and working within the Contrail Research Centre, part of the Brahmal Vasudevan Institute for Sustainable Aviation. You can expect constant exposure to debate, discussion, and collaboration with a broad group of researchers, all working towards a common goal and representing expertise from aircraft exhaust simulation through to satellite-based contrail detection. You can also expect to attend conferences and meet with international researchers working on atmospheric science and aviation sustainability. By developing the technical skills at the heart of quantitative environmental impact analysis, you will be able to contribute directly to the work of making aerospace truly sustainable.

Supervisors: Dr. Sebastian Eastham

Duration: 3.5 years.

Funding: Full coverage of tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend of £23,805 for Home, EU and International students. Find out more about fee status

Eligibility: Due to the competitive nature of our studentships, candidates will be expected to achieve/have achieved a First class honours MEng/MSci or higher degree (or international equivalent) in: Engineering (general) or Physics

We are looking for anyone with a quantitative mind, an interest in computation, and a genuine desire to advance aerospace sustainability.

How to apply: Visit The chemistry of contrails for important instructions on how to apply.

Contact: For more specific project information, email: Dr. Sebastian Eastham,

For questions about the application process, please first read our Frequently Asked Questions. If your question has not been answered, please email the PhD Administrator (Admissions).

Frequently Asked Questions: You can also find answers to common application questions on our Frequently Asked Questions.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Imperial is committed to equality and valuing diversity. We are an Athena SWAN Silver Award winner, a Stonewall Diversity Champion, a Disability Confident Employer and are working in partnership with GIRES to promote respect for trans people.