PhD Position in Experimental Aerodynamics

Are you passionate about experimental aerodynamics and flow visualization? Apply for a PhD position that aims at transforming flow field measurements into aerodynamic forces by pressure and friction.

PhD Position in Experimental Aerodynamics

FTE: 1,0

Job description

The Aerodynamics group is composed of 12 scientific staff and hosts the Chairs of Experimental Aerodynamics, Computational Fluid Dynamics and Flow Control. The group has a specific expertise in the field of advanced experimental and computational techniques for the analysis of aerodynamic systems as well as in flow control technologies. The group’s research is conducted within collaborations performed with European partners such as the European Space Agency (ESA), the German-Dutch Wind-Tunnels (DNW), LaVision GmbH, a Formula 1 team and several other aerodynamics institutes.

Since 2000 an experimental aerodynamics team has concentrated on the development of advanced non-intrusive measurement techniques such as Particle Image Velocimetry, InfraRed Thermography and Background Oriented Schlieren for the study of critical aerodynamic phenomena such as flow separation, transition to turbulence, shock wave boundary layer interactions in the supersonic and hypersonic regimes.

The Aerodynamics laboratories are equipped with state of the art wind tunnels with a large low-speed (low-turbulence) wind tunnel and high-speed transonic-supersonic tunnels up to hypersonic flows (Mach 11). A low-speed open test section large wind tunnel (Open Jet Facility) erected in 2008 is available for real-world aerodynamics of sports, wind energy and rotorcraft system, among others. The group disposes a wide range of experimental equipment for tomographic PIV, and large scale measurements in wind tunnels and in the field. The research activity aims at high scientific profile, with and attention to the transfer and application of the developed technologies in real industrial situations. It is the intention of the Aerodynamics group to further explore experimental techniques for aerodynamics, flight mechanics and propulsion, for which the AEROSQIN project constitutes a perfect framework.

Two PhD positions are available. The first one will advance techniques for large-scale 3D particle tracking by merging measurement theory and practice with flow modelling for applications in industrial wind tunnels for the aerospace sector. The second one will explore helium-filled soap bubbles as flow tracers up to the supersonic regime to extend the capabilities of large-scale 3D PIV to high-speed aerodynamics.

Job requirements

We will consider applications based on the following skillsets. If you do not fullfil all requirements, please still apply (there is room for learning-on-the-job).

• An engineering degree, preferably, aerospace or mechanical;
• Proven competence on flow measurement techniques and PIV;
• Familiarity with optics, lasers, image processing and statistical data analysis
• Familiarity with flow modelling techniques (CFD) or machine learning for fluid flows
• Aptitude for team work and excellent communication skills in spoken and written English;
• Fundamental knowledge of fluid mechanics;
• Affinity with data processing techniques and programming (Matlab and/or Python);
• Hands on with laboratory work, skilled in experimental design;
• Creativity, assertive attitude, and perseverance

The intended start date is in October 2026.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means joining an international community of professionals and students.

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3204 - €4051 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis.

Please note:

• #EUfunded This is an EU funded project, named AEROSQIN (Surface Layer Diagnostics from Quantitative Flow Visualization), with project number 101266905, within program HE / ERC.
• As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed.