Distributed Radar Detection and Localisation of Drones - PhD

This project investigates how to improve drone detection and localisation performance using radar systems. The use of a multistatic radar network can potentially provide a significant improvement in performance. Multistatic radar deployments, which produce several bistatic angles, can aid increasing the signal to noise ratio (SNR), increasing drone detectability and increasing the ability to accurately track and classify them.

Project Details

• The project is co-funded by QinetiQ.
• The successful candidate will be based at Cranfield University and will benefit from the support and expertise of the diverse academic community, a community of students working towards similar goals, as well as the specialist industrial network.
• The Centre for Defence Engineering and Physical Science at Cranfield University is a world-leading centre for research, education and consultancy on a diverse range of specialities in electronic and digital attack and protection.

Why Join Us?

• Industrial Collaboration: Each PhD student within the Hub is partnered with an industry collaborator, providing placement opportunities to work and train alongside industry experts.
• Comprehensive Training: The Hub offers a blend of academic and industrial training, preparing students for diverse career pathways in research or industry.
• Cohort Experience: Build a research network through inclusion in a vibrant cohort of PhD students that conduct research with academic leaders across leading UK institutions.
• Funding: A generous fully funded studentship (no fees and a monthly personal payment) with additional support for conferences, travel, training, consumables and extended placement with industry collaborators.

Funding Notes

• The generous funding package includes full tuition fees and an enhanced stipend of Ł25,805 per annum.
• Additional support is available for conference attendance, specialised training, travel to industrial partners, and extended placements with industry collaborators.
• This studentship is open to UK Nationals and is available for home students only.

At a Glance

• Application deadline: 25 Mar 2026
• Award type(s): PhD
• Start date: 05 Oct 2026
• Duration of award: 4 years
• Eligibility: UK
• Reference number: CRAN-0055

Entry Requirements

• Applicants should have an equivalent of first or second-class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline, engineering or science (materials science/physics).
• The candidate should be self-motivated, have good communication skills for regular interaction with other stakeholders, with an interest in industrial research.

Funding

• PhD Candidates must hold a minimum of an upper Second-Class UK Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant science or engineering discipline.
• Candidates must be UK Nationals and be willing to apply for and able to obtain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance.

Diversity and Inclusion at Cranfield

• Cranfield is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in the CDT program, and warmly encourages applications from students of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups.
• Cranfield strives to provide an accessible and inclusive environment to enable all doctoral candidates to thrive and achieve their full potential.

Cranfield Doctoral Network

• Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network.
• The network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment.

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Overview:

Cranfield University is a postgraduate-focused institution specializing in science, technology, engineering, and management. It is renowned for its strong industry links and practical approach to education.

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Services Offered:

Cranfield University offers a wide range of services to students, including:

Careers and Employability Service:

Provides guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

IT Services:

Offers access to computer labs, software, and technical support.

Libraries:

Provides access to extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Industry Links:

Cranfield University has close relationships with numerous organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.

Practical Approach to Education:

The university emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing students for successful careers.

World-Class Facilities:

Cranfield boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, workshops, and research centers.

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Academic Programs:

Cranfield University offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including:

Taught Degrees:

MSc programs in various fields, such as aerospace, energy, and management.

Research Degrees:

PhD and MPhil programs for students seeking to conduct advanced research.

Apprenticeships:

Level 7 apprenticeships for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Professional Development:

Short courses and executive development programs for individuals and organizations.

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Other:

• Cranfield University has two campuses: Cranfield Campus and Cranfield University at Shrivenham.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong track record in environmental research.
• Cranfield University is ranked highly in various international rankings, including those for sustainability and engineering.