The Development of a Miniaturized Plug-and-Play In-Situ Plasma Measurement Instrument for Small Satellites Scholarship 2026 at the University of Southampton, United Kingdom, is a fully funded doctoral research opportunity. The project develops a CubeSat-compatible plasma diagnostic payload (PlasmaCube) to measure space plasma environments in real time using Langmuir probe technology.

About the Development of a Miniaturized Plug-and-Play In-Situ Plasma Measurement Instrument for Small Satellites Scholarship

The University of Southampton offers this PhD project under the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, within the Astronautics Research Group in the Department of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering.

The research focuses on designing and building PlasmaCube, a compact, plug-and-play plasma measurement system for CubeSats and small satellites. The system enables real-time monitoring of space plasma conditions that often contribute to satellite failures in harsh orbital environments.

The project develops:

  • Langmuir probe–based plasma sensing technology
  • Optimised electrode geometry for space plasma measurement
  • Nano-scale current measurement electronics
  • On-board control and data acquisition systems
  • Standardised plug-and-play diagnostic payload architecture

The research also targets international CubeSat missions and supports global space environment datasets by enabling in-situ measurements in orbit.

Students join a highly active space systems engineering group and gain experience in satellite instrumentation, electronics design, and space environment physics.

Why Choose The Development of a Miniaturized Plug-and-Play In-Situ Plasma Measurement Instrument for Small Satellites Scholarship?

This PhD allows you to work at the intersection of space systems engineering, plasma physics, and satellite instrumentation.

You gain practical experience in:

  • CubeSat payload design and integration
  • Space plasma diagnostics
  • Electronics and sensor systems development
  • Real-time data acquisition in orbital environments

You also gain exposure to international collaborations and in-orbit testing opportunities with global partners.

Development of a Miniaturized Plug-and-Play In-Situ Plasma Measurement Instrument for Small Satellites Scholarship Summary

  • Host Country: United Kingdom
  • Host University: University of Southampton
  • Scholarship Name: Development of a Miniaturized Plug-and-Play In-Situ Plasma Measurement Instrument for Small Satellites
  • Study Level: PhD (Doctoral Research)
  • Funding Type: Fully funded studentship
  • Duration: Up to 4 years
  • Funding Coverage: Full tuition fees + UKRI stipend (tax-free)
  • Research Field: Space systems, plasma physics, CubeSats, electronics, instrumentation
  • Selection Basis: Academic excellence and engineering/research capability
  • Application Requirement: Direct PhD application with supervisor contact
  • Closing Date: 31 July 2026

Scholarship Benefits

This PhD studentship provides:

  • Full tuition fee coverage
  • A tax-free UKRI doctoral stipend (living allowance)
  • Training in CubeSat payload design and space instrumentation
  • Hands-on experience in plasma diagnostics and electronics development
  • Access to advanced spacecraft engineering facilities
  • Opportunities for international CubeSat mission collaboration
  • Participation in real-space environment data collection projects

Eligibility Criteria

You qualify for this PhD if you:

  • Hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent
  • Have a background in:
    • Aerospace engineering
    • Electrical/electronic engineering
    • Physics or space science
    • Systems engineering or related fields
  • Demonstrate interest in:
    • Space plasma physics
    • Satellite instrumentation
    • Sensor electronics or embedded systems
  • Show strong analytical and experimental ability
  • Meet English language requirements for doctoral study

Required Documents

You must submit:

  • Completed the University of Southampton PhD application form
  • Academic CV
  • Degree transcripts and certificates
  • Two academic references
  • Research statement or motivation letter
  • English language test results (if required)
  • Supervisor contact confirmation (recommended)

Application Process & Timeline

You follow these steps:

  1. You apply for a PhD in Engineering & Astronautics or a related field at Southampton.
  2. You contact the project supervisor (Dr Taiwo Raphael Tejumola).
  3. You prepare your CV, transcripts, and research statement.
  4. You submit your application through the university portal.
  5. The university evaluates your technical and academic suitability.
  6. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed.
  7. Successful applicants receive a fully funded PhD offer.