Aerospace

Through interdisciplinary research and collaboration with industry partners we are driving aerospace innovation.

Research and impact

Vibration and acoustic testing facilities at the Laboratory for Verification and Validation

We accelerate the transition to net-zero aviation by exploring the potential of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), hydrogen, electric, and hybrid technologies. Our work minimises the demand for rare materials by improving material performance and extending in-service life. We are engineering manufacturing techniques that drive a circular economy, focusing on the reuse and recovery of critical aerospace materials. Underpinning these efforts is our commitment to predictive modelling and AI, which drive advancements in aircraft management, performance, and manufacturing.

Sustainable aviation

A Virgin plane flying above the clouds

World-first transatlantic flight using sustainable aviation fuel takes off

A historic transatlantic flight using 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel has taken off with the help of engineers from the University of Sheffield.

Flight100, by Virgin Atlantic, marks a major milestone in the development of sustainable aviation fuels, as the first commercial airline to use the replacement for jet fuel to fly across the Atlantic. The historic flight is an important step in tackling aviation’s biggest challenge - decarbonisation.

3D Printer manufacturing using metal powder

Scaling sustainable aerospace additive manufacturing

The University of Sheffield joins £38M DECSAM programme to scale sustainable aerospace additive manufacturing

By prioritising resource efficiency, material reuse, and circular design principles, DECSAM aims to reduce waste and carbon intensity across the AM value chain, supporting the aerospace sector’s transition toward net-zero manufacturing and more sustainable aviation.

Scaling up our research through collaboration

Rolls-Royce plc Intelligent Engine
©Rolls-Royce plc

Rolls-Royce Control, Monitoring and Systems Engineering University Technology Centre

Working alongside Rolls-Royce experts, from within a world-class Control Department, the UTC carries out short-term and long-term collaborative research with the aim of supporting the company's business aims through improving the product, improving productivity and reducing cost-of-ownership.
A close up of an electric motor stator and winding stack

Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre in Advanced Electrical Machines and Drives

The UTC in Advanced Electrical Machines and Drives undertakes research programmes under the direction of Rolls-Royce with a view to facilitating advancements in technology aimed at future market requirements.

Our teams and facilities

Our world-leading research centres and facilities make an incredible impact.

By harnessing our wealth of interdisciplinary expertise, and together with partners across the world, they are constantly furthering academic knowledge and addressing the wide range of global challenges facing society.

Research centres and groups

Aerospace with Royce

Dynamics research group

Energy Innovation Centre

Laboratory for Verification and Validation (LVV)

Sheffield Blast and Impact group

Space with Royce

Access our facilities

We're home to world-class facilities that support research both within the University of Sheffield and in collaboration with a wide variety of partners.

Visit our dedicated webpages

Work with us to make a difference

Collaborations

Our partnerships are key to our success. By collaborating with our partners, we unlock their potential and build a powerful network of innovation. 

Partnerships and collaboration

Externally funded Research Fellowships

Our support for externally funded Research Fellowships is designed to establish you as a research leader in an ambitious, vibrant and supportive environment.

Engineering fellowships

Research, Partnerships & Innovation

A dedicated team at the heart of supporting the University's delivery of research and impact across many sectors. Discover more about our people and how you can be a part of it.

Research, Partnerships and Innovation