IFA/Cranfield announce 2026 John Saull Scholarship winner
Ayush Kamboj has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the IFA/Cranfield John Saull Scholarship.
Ayush is an aerospace engineer and Cranfield University alumnus, having completed an MSc in Aerospace Vehicle Design. His academic and research interests include aircraft systems engineering, airworthiness and safety, Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), advanced fuel systems and the integration of emerging technologies into future aircraft.
During his studies at Cranfield, Ayush was awarded the Course Director’s Prize for the best thesis, recognising his academic achievement. His recent research has focused on the integration of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and MBSE to support earlier hazard identification and safety assessment during aircraft conceptual design. His work has included the application of Functional Hazard Analysis, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis and Fault Tree Analysis to aircraft fuel systems.
As part of his scholarship application, Ayush considered the question: “Tomorrow, if you were appointed director of an airworthiness authority, what would be your first priority action?” His submission demonstrated his interest in the relationship between engineering, safety, airworthiness and the regulatory frameworks that underpin aviation.
As the winner of the scholarship, Ayush has chosen to undertake Cranfield University’s Airworthiness Fundamentals short course, which will complement his existing systems and safety research and further develop his understanding of the regulatory and certification principles underpinning continued airworthiness.
The IFA and Cranfield University would like to congratulate Ayush on his achievement and look forward to supporting his continued development in aerospace engineering and airworthiness.
We are also delighted that the John Saull Scholarship continues to support the next generation of engineers and airworthiness professionals, in memory of John’s outstanding contribution to aviation.
