Postdoc Experimental Aerodynamics

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft); Netherlands; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands invites applications for a PhD position in experimental aerodynamics. The project focuses on transforming flow field measurements into aerodynamic forces using pressure and friction, with emphasis on PIV and advanced diagnostics.

The Aerodynamics group collaborates with ESA, DNW, LaVision, and industry partners, offering world-class facilities and a strong, international research environment. Start planned for October 2026.

Qualifications

• PhD in aerospace/mechanical engineering or applied physics.
• Experience in experimental fluid mechanics.
• Competence in flow measurement techniques and PIV.
• Familiarity with optics, lasers, image processing and data analysis.
• Familiarity with CFD or ML for fluid flows.
• Excellent English communication skills.
• Ability to supervise students or early-stage researchers.
• Affinity with data processing and programming (MATLAB/Python).
• Hands-on with laboratory work and experimental design.

Responsibilities

• Advance techniques for large-scale 3D particle tracking and flow analysis.
• Merge measurement theory with flow modelling for industrial wind tunnels.

Skills

PhD in aerospace/mechanical eng or a.p

Experimental fluid mechanics

Flow measurement techniques

PIV

Optics, lasers, image processing

CFD or ML for fluid flows

English communication

Supervise students

MATLAB or Python

Laboratory work and experimental setup

Education

PhD in aerospace/mechanical engineering or applied physics

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

Organisation/Company Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) Research Field Engineering » Aerospace engineering Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Application Deadline 27 Sep 2026 - 21:59 (UTC) Country Netherlands Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Not Applicable Hours Per Week 38.0 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe-ERC Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

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.
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. Visit www.lr.tudelft.nl/aerodynamics for an overview of current activities and relevant scientific publications. 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.
The candidate 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 and oversee the application of helium-filled soap bubbles as flow tracers up to the supersonic regime.
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).

• A PhD in aerospace/mechanical engineering or applied physics.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct research in experimental fluid mechanics.
• 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.
• Ability to supervise students or early‑stage researchers.
• 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 selection process will start immediately; the intended start date is in October 2026.

TU Delft
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.
For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.
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 join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.
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.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team . This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.
You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 2 years. Temporary.
• A job of 38 hours per week.
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.

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. .

For more information, please contact Prof. Fulvio Scarano [e-mail] .