Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Experimental Hypersonics

Economics Network; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Oxford seeks 3 Postdoctoral Research Assistants to conduct experiments in hypersonic facilities and international test sites. You will design campaigns, analyze data on non-equilibrium thermochemistry and heat transfer, and contribute to world‑leading high-speed flow research.

The role involves collaboration with international partners, dissemination of findings at conferences, and potential personal research funding opportunities.

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in experimental fluid dynamics and data interpretation.
• Experience operating high-speed or high-enthalpy wind tunnels or impulse facilities.
• Strong ability to develop and implement optical diagnostic techniques for flow measurement.

Responsibilities

• Plan and run test campaigns in hypersonic facilities.
• Analyse experimental data and disseminate results through seminars and journals.
• Guide junior researchers and supervise project volunteers.

Skills

Experimental fluid dynamics

Wind tunnel operation

Optical diagnostics

Data analysis

Education

PhD / DPhil in a relevant discipline

Job description

We are looking for 3 Postdoctoral Research Assistant’s in Experimental Hypersonics

The role for the successful applicants will be to undertake experiments in the hypersonic facilities at the University of Oxford and in international facilities. This will involve the exploration of non-equilibrium thermochemistry, radiation and convective heating for Earth and other planets (Neptune, Martian) entry; heat flux augmentation from non-conformal surfaces; supersonic boundary layer combustion. These will involve the application of both existing and new experimental techniques. You’ll plan and run test campaigns, analyse data to advance understanding of material–flow interaction, and disseminate results in seminars, journals, and international conferences. The role will require discussion of results with both international collaborators and funders. Additionally, the candidate will have some freedom and time to explore their own pursuits, research funding permitting. Involvement in other ongoing research programs is also possible, based on the progress in the main project. The candidate will be expected to perform additional engineering tasks to ensure the development of wind tunnel infrastructure. The post holder provides guidance to junior members of the research group including research assistants, PhD students, and/or project volunteers.

About you

You will hold a PhD/DPhil in a relevant discipline, or be near completion with your thesis submitted, and have experience relevant to the research area. You will bring practical expertise in the operation of high-speed or high-enthalpy wind tunnels, impulse facilities, or related experimental facilities, together with a strong understanding of the analysis and interpretation of complex experimental datasets.

The successful candidates will have demonstrated excellence in experimental fluid dynamics, including the design and execution of sophisticated fluid experiments and the application of advanced data analysis techniques. You will possess well-developed skills in experimental and component design, along with experience in the development and application of optical diagnostic techniques for fluid flow measurement and characterisation.

You will be capable of managing your own research programme and associated activities, balancing multiple priorities while delivering high-quality outcomes. Experience contributing to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations is essential, as is the ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to a range of audiences.

We are looking for candidates who can contribute creatively to the development of new research ideas, support the preparation of research funding proposals, and play an active role in the continued growth of the research programme. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, including the ability to prepare publications, present research findings and proposals, and represent the research group in meetings with collaborators, stakeholders, and the wider research community.

This would suit independent, collaborative, and highly motivated researchers who are passionate about experimental aerodynamics and advancing world-leading research in high-speed flow physics.

£39,424 to £47,779 per annum