PhD Research Opportunities (University of Canterbury & Dawn Aerospace)
Dawn Aerospace and the University of Canterbury are seeking expressions of interest from prospective PhD candidates for a number of fully-sponsored research projects in advanced aerospace engineering.
Successful applicants will be enrolled as PhD students at the University of Canterbury and will undertake research projects aligned with real-world aerospace challenges at Dawn Aerospace. Candidates will be supervised jointly by University of Canterbury academics and Dawn Aerospace technical experts.
This is a unique opportunity to combine doctoral research with direct exposure to one of the world's fastest-growing space transportation companies.
Available Research Projects
Three projects are available:
- Microgravity Thermofluids Analysis and Propellant Management: Research focused on fluid behaviour and propellant management in microgravity environments, supporting the development of future space propulsion systems. https://bpb-ap-se2.wpmucdn.com/blogs.auckland.ac.nz/dist/e/1107/files/2026/07/ADS-2.13-Microgravity-thermofluids-analysis-and-propellant-management.pdf
- Multidisciplinary Design Optimisation for Hypersonic UAVs: Research focused on advanced design methodologies and optimisation techniques for next-generation high-speed aerospace vehicles. https://bpb-ap-se2.wpmucdn.com/blogs.auckland.ac.nz/dist/e/1107/files/2026/07/ADS-2.14-Multidisciplinary-Design-Optimization-for-Hypersonic-UAVs.pdf
- Design and testing of novel space-efficient damping structures (Coming Soon): A third PhD project will be published shortly and applicants will have the opportunity to express interest in this project as part of the application process. NOTE: This project is not part of the Applied Doctorate Scheme
Questions about a project?
We recognise that prospective PhD candidates may wish to better understand the research scope, expected outcomes, funding arrangements, and supervision model before applying.
If you would like additional information about any of the projects, please complete the application process. Where appropriate, we can arrange an introductory discussion with the relevant University of Canterbury and Dawn Aerospace supervisors.
Who We're Looking For
We welcome applications from individuals with strong academic backgrounds in disciplines such as:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Physics
- Applied Mathematics
- Computational Engineering
- Other closely related fields
Applicants should be passionate about solving challenging engineering problems and interested in applying their research to real aerospace systems.
Experience with fluid simulation, thermal modelling, structural analysis, or vibration is preferred.
Application Process
Through a single application, candidates may express interest in one or more of the available research projects.
Applicants should be prepared to provide:
- CV
- Academic transcript
- Details of current or completed qualifications
- Statement of research interests
- Preferred project(s)
Shortlisted candidates will be assessed jointly by Dawn Aerospace and the University of Canterbury.
About Dawn Aerospace
Dawn Aerospace is a space transportation company building scalable and sustainable spaceflight technologies. With operations across New Zealand and Europe, Dawn develops satellite propulsion systems and spaceplane technology designed to enable routine access to space.
Important Information
This opportunity is for enrolment as a PhD student at the University of Canterbury. Successful candidates will not be employees of Dawn Aerospace. Research will be undertaken through a collaborative arrangement between the University of Canterbury and Dawn Aerospace, with joint supervision and industry engagement throughout the programme.
