Are you passionate about aerodynamic testing? Apply for a PostDoc position focused on the development of 3D LPT techniques for industrial applications.
Job description
In this Postdoc position, you will focus on the development of large-scale three-dimensional Lagrangian Particle Tracking (3D-LPT) techniques for industrial applications. The work specifically targets applications in industrial wind tunnels, with a focus on the automotive and aerospace sector. The developed approaches will involve the use of helium-filled soap bubbles as flow tracers, combined with multi-directional imaging and illumination for omni-directional flow measurements. These elements form the basis for further advancing large-scale 3D-LPT techniques in aerodynamic testing environments. The position centres on experimental fluid mechanics and on the further development of measurement approaches for three-dimensional flow analysis. It combines work on experimental techniques with the application of established and advanced 3D-LPT methods. The selection process will start immediately; the intended start date is in September 2026.
Job requirements
- You hold a PhD with a focus on experimental fluid mechanics, for example in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or applied physics.
- You have proven competence in three-dimensional Lagrangian Particle Tracking, Object-Aware Shake-the-Box algorithms and helium-filled soap bubbles seeding for large-scale 3D-LPT experiments.
- You are familiar with LaVision DaVis 11 software.
- You have an aptitude for working in a team and excellent communication skills in spoken and written English.
- You have fundamental knowledge of fluid mechanics.
- You have strong analytical skills.
- You have knowledge of physics and mathematics.
- You have a strong affinity with design of experiments and experimental techniques.
- You have affinity with data processing techniques and programming in Matlab and/or Python.
- You are hands-on in lab work and skilled in experimental design.
- You bring creativity, an assertive attitude, and perseverance.
TU Delft
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
- Duration of contract is 6 months. Temporary.
- A job of 36-40 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.
- Flexible working week.
- 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.
Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. Andrea Sciacchitano, via asciacch@tudelft.nl or .
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 17 May 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- CV.
- Motivational letter which should at least include:
- Examples of projects and achievements that demonstrate your relevant competences.
- Your motivation for applying to this R&D position.
- Your motivation for working in an academic environment.
- Full transcripts of M.Sc. degree and PhD degree in English. In case the transcripts are in another language, please include a translation (certified translation is not needed).
- List of research papers published in international scientific peer-reviewed journals.
You can address your application to Dr. Andrea Sciacchitano. The selection process will start immediately; the intended start date is in September 2026.
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- 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. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
