Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is offering a 12-month postdoctoral position in Optical Metrology for full-scale crash testing of hydrogen aircraft tanks. This role is part of the European Clean Aviation project CRYOSTAR, which aims to ensure the crashworthiness of hydrogen-powered aircraft through numerical modeling, material characterization, and full-scale testing.
The successful candidate will be responsible for planning and executing high-speed stereo Digital Image Correlation (DIC) measurements during a unique full-scale drop test of a cryogenic liquid hydrogen tank in Italy in 2027. The position involves linking DIC results to numerical crash models for validation and contributing to the definition of test instrumentation.
Quick Facts
| Opportunity | Postdoc Position |
|---|---|
| Institution | Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) |
| Department | Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, Optical Metrology for Aerospace (OMA) |
| Location | Delft, Netherlands |
| Region | Europe |
| Open to | International applicants |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Stipend / Salary | Not specified |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Start date | Not specified |
| Application deadline | 02 December 2026 |
About the Position
The core of this postdoctoral role involves designing and implementing a high-speed stereo imaging setup for DIC and marker tracking, performing test measurements both in the TU Delft laboratory and during the final drop test in Italy, processing image data into displacements, strains, and motions, and correlating these DIC results with finite element models for validation. The position requires ensuring the robustness of measurements for a one-time full-scale drop test and collaborating closely with project partners on sensor data acquisition and crash simulations. There is also potential to contribute to ongoing research and educational projects in optical metrology and to develop personal research initiatives.
Eligibility
- PhD in optics, computer vision, experimental mechanics, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
- Hands-on experience with Digital Image Correlation (DIC), ideally high-speed stereo.
- Experience in correlating DIC data with finite element models for model validation.
- Experience with image processing and data analysis.
- Willingness to travel to the test facility in Italy for a short period during the test campaign.
- English proficiency and strong communication skills for academic and industrial audiences.
Benefits
- Salary and benefits in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- Excellent pension scheme via ABP.
- Possibility to compile an individual employment package annually.
- Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
- Flexible working week.
- 232 leave hours per year (for 38 hours/week), with options to buy/sell additional hours.
- Opportunities for education, training, and courses.
- Partially paid parental leave.
- Vitality program for healthy and energetic working.
- Relocation support through TU Delft's 'Coming to Delft Service', including information, events, and a Dual Career Programme for accompanying partners.
Documents Required
- Detailed CV
- Motivational letter (addressing expected challenges in full-scale crash test deformation measurement with high-speed stereo DIC and linking to finite element models)
- Copies of PhD and MSc degrees and transcripts
How to Apply
- Apply via the application button on the AcademicTransfer website (link provided in the original listing) no later than December 2, 2026.
- Upload the required documents, addressing the motivational letter to Dr. Andrei Anisimov.
FAQs
What is the duration of this postdoctoral position?
The duration of the contract is 1 year.
Is this position part of an EU-funded project?
Yes, this position is part of the EU-funded CRYOSTAR project (project number 101251003) within the Horizon Europe program, supported by the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking.
What is the primary focus of the research?
The primary focus is on full-field optical measurements using digital image correlation for full-scale crash testing of hydrogen aircraft tanks, linking these measurements to crash simulations for validation.
Source: EURAXESS.
Details can change – always confirm eligibility and deadline on the official listing before applying.
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