Advanced Space Concepts Laboratory 4 PhD Scholarships (3 years) Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK The Advanced

Space Concepts Laboratory conducts a programme of frontier research on visionary space systems to underpin new space-derived products and services for space science, telecommunications and Earth observation. Four PhD studentships are available funded by the European Research Council (projects 1-3) and an EPSRC iCASE award with Clyde Space Ltd (project 4). Project 1 Smart Swarms: Self-Organisation for Distributed Micro-spacecraft This project will develop new methodologies to integrate the control of the spatial pattern of a swarm with science/instrument data collection and top level mission objectives. For example, we will investigate massively distributed swarms of MEMs-scale devices which can autonomously self-organise to maximise science returns through a realisation of the particle swarm optimisation methodology. Project 2 Morphing Structures: A New Spacecraft Architecture This project will investigate the orbit and attitude dynamics of shape-changing gossamer spacecraft using highly distributed sensing and actuation. We envisage a spacecraft which can self-deploy and manipulate its morphology to deliver key mission functions such as power collection, sensing, communication and pointing in addition to propulsion through the use of solar radiation pressure. Project 3 Mechanics of Asteroids: Manipulation and Exploitation This project will investigate novel means of manipulating small near Earth asteroids using insights into the orbit and attitude dynamics of such bodies. We will explore the use of solar radiation pressure as a means of passively sorting asteroid material as a function of grain size. We will consider key issues for asteroid-based engineering such as chaotic tumbling, transient dust atmospheres and catastrophic fragmentation. Project 4 Spacecraft Through-Life System Optimisation and Design Nano-spacecraft are set to play a growing role in space exploitation, reducing total cost and schedule, whilst delivering cost effective returns to users. Clyde Space are a globally leading, R&D led, nano-spacecraft company. This project will investigate spacecraft system level optimisation, robustness and technology readiness throughout the mission life-cycle, with specific applicability to resource-limited nano-spacecraft. For further information please visit www.strath.ac.uk/space and/or contact: Professor Colin McInnes for projects 1-3 [colin.mcinnes@strath.ac.uk] Dr Malcolm Macdonald for project 4 [malcolm.macdonald.102@strath.ac.uk] Candidates should have, or expect to receive a 1 or 2.1 class honours (or equivalent) degree in Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics or a related discipline. The PhD scholarships (projects 1-3) are st th for 3 years from 1 October 2011, while project 4 must start before 30 September 2011. The scholarships will cover fees and a tax-free stipend of 13,500, reviewed annually. Please note that only UK/EU candidates are eligible. To apply please email a covering letter noting which project(s) are of interest, a full Curriculum Vitae and the names and contact details of two referees to Ms Christina Rossi [christina.rossi@strath.ac.uk]. The closing date for all applications is 1 March 2011.
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