Shape the future of sustainable aviation by researching how zero-emission aircraft will transform air traffic management. Model and assess the integration of hydrogen and electric aircraft into European airspace and support the EU Green Deal net-zero emissions goals.
We are seeking a dedicated PhD candidate to join a new project, ZEUS, developing integrated frameworks for modeling, assessment, and management of next-generation low/zero-emission aircraft impact on the European ATM network.
Your responsibilities will include developing performance models for zero-emission aircraft (hydrogen combustion, hydrogen fuel cell, battery-electric, hybrid-electric) and assessing ATM network impacts of aircraft with fundamentally different operational characteristics. You will simulate mixed-fleet operations in European airspace and analyze how they will impact the future air traffic system, as well as explore new ways of managing these new entrants. The role involves investigating trajectory planning and energy management strategies for alternative propulsion, modeling differences in climb/descent performance, range, and endurance constraints, and evaluating airspace capacity implications and traffic flow management adaptations.
The project:
ZEUS develops an integrated framework for understanding how next-generation zero- and low-emission aircraft will affect air traffic management systems, airport infrastructure, and network operations. The project addresses system readiness, operational changes required, and phased integration strategies for new aircraft types. TU Delft brings expertise in aircraft performance modeling, ATM simulation, and network analysis to this exploratory research.
The PhD research will extend beyond this project. The research topic could include trajectory data-driven research in airspace capacities, as well as predictions and optimization for future aviation scenarios
Required:
- MSc degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace Engineering, Air Transport, Operations Research, or related field
- Strong analytical and modeling skills
- Proficiency in programming (such as Python, Rust, or Go)
- Understanding of aircraft performance principles and/or ATM systems
- Solid background in quantitative research methods
- Interest in sustainable aviation and environmental impacts
- Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in international teams
Preferred:
- Experience with aircraft performance modeling or flight simulation
- Knowledge of alternative propulsion systems (hydrogen, electric, hybrid)
- Familiarity with ATM concepts, airspace design, or traffic flow management
- Experience with optimization or operational research methods
- Experience with scientific publications in aviation or transportation research
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
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
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 €3059 - €3881 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
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. Junzi Sun, via J.Sun-1@tudelft.nl.
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 31 May 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
You can address your application to Dr. Junzi Sun.
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. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
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#EUfunded This is an EU funded project, named ZEUS, with project number 101286802, within program HE.
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